A place for adventure, learning and community in the heart of Lancashire

The Anderton Centre is a residential and day-visit outdoor activity centre focused on helping young people and community groups grow in confidence, build life skills and create lasting memories through shared experiences.

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A Centre built for adventure, education and community

The Anderton Centre provides water and land-based outdoor activities, supported by accommodation and facilities for residential stays, school visits and group experiences. Set near the West Pennine Moors and the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, it offers a unique environment for learning outside the classroom.

Our story so far

The Anderton Centre has a long and fascinating history. From its origins as a private home to its role today as a charity-led outdoor activity centre, the site has continued to evolve while staying rooted in community, development and access to the outdoors.

1875

The estate begins

The story of the site dates back to the 1870s, when the land was known as Low Hill. It later became home to Anderton Hall, building the foundations of the place we know today.

1881

Anderton Hall is established

Following the demolition of the old hall, a new manor house was built. Known as New Anderton Hall, it became a prominent local landmark overlooking the surrounding countryside.

1890s

A well-known local residence

By the late 19th century, the hall and grounds were established as an impressive private estate, set within one of Lancashire’s most scenic locations.

Early 1900s

A period of change

As ownership changed over time, the estate continued to develop and adapt, reflecting the wider history of the local area.

Second World War

A new purpose

During the war years, the site played an important practical role, helping support national efforts and showing its value beyond private ownership.

Post-war years

The hall enters a new chapter

Following the war, the building and grounds went through further change before eventually becoming part of a wider vision for education, access and public benefit.

1990s

Outdoor adventure takes shape

The site was redeveloped into an outdoor activity centre, creating a space where young people, schools and community groups could experience learning, challenge and adventure together.

2000s

Becoming a registered charity

The Anderton Centre strengthened its charitable purpose, helping ensure the site could continue to serve communities through outdoor education and accessible experiences.

Today

A Centre for growth, confidence and connection

Today, the Anderton Centre is a much-loved destination for residential visits, activity days and group experiences, helping people of all ages build confidence, teamwork and lifelong memories.

Our charitable purpose

Driven by purpose, not profit

The Anderton Centre operates with a strong charitable focus, reinvesting into the future of the site and the experiences it provides. Its purpose is to support young people and community groups through access to outdoor learning, adventure and personal development opportunities.

What the Centre offers today

Today, the Anderton Centre welcomes schools, youth groups, families and community organisations for a wide range of outdoor experiences. From adventurous activities to team-building opportunities and residential stays, the Centre continues to provide a safe, inspiring place to learn, explore and grow.

Outdoor activities on land and water

Residential accommodation for group stays

Learning beyond the classroom

Experiences that build confidence and teamwork

Explore the Anderton Centre before you arrive

Take a virtual look around our outdoor spaces, facilities and surroundings, and get a feel for what your visit to the Anderton Centre could be like.

Did you know?

The grounds of the Anderton Centre have their own unique stories to tell, including local history and natural features that connect the site to the wider Rivington landscape. these small details add even more character to a place already full of heritage and adventure.

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Real feedback from real experiences

Find out why schools, youth groups and visitors continue to choose the Anderton Centre for outdoor adventure and learning.

"A Bolton-based company said the stunning surroundings and consistent level of service is the reason the team returns to the Anderton Centre time and time again. Bolton at Home, a housing associatio..."

Bolton At Home

"We worked closely with the Anderton Centre to develop a bespoke team building course for our team leaders across various parts of the business. The Anderton Centre ensured that they fully understood o..."

Maria Rogers from Leyland Trucks

"Our recent visit to the Anderton Centre for the Stay Well conference was nothing short of exceptional. Every aspect of the experience exceeded our expectations. From the moment we arrived, we were imp..."

The Stay Well Attendees

"Bolton School has a long standing commitment to Outdoor Learning, which it regards as an essential strand of character education for young people. The school has its own outdoor pursuits centre in ..."

Bolton School

"We were absolutely thrilled with our visit to the Anderton Centre. From start to finish, everything exceeded our expectations. The staff were outstanding—friendly, knowledgeable, and truly great wit..."

Anna Pattison