Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Lancashire, the Panopticons are a series of four unique sculptures designed to enhance the natural beauty of the region while celebrating its rich cultural heritage. Each structure offers visitors a distinctive experience, blending art with the environment. Here’s a guide to exploring these remarkable landmarks, including addresses, parking information, and walking routes.
1. The Singing Ringing Tree, Burnley
Perched atop the Burnley Moors, the Singing Ringing Tree is a wind-powered sculpture resembling a twisted tree. Crafted from galvanized steel pipes, it produces melodious sounds as the wind passes through, creating an ethereal ambiance.
- Address: Crown Point, Burnley, Lancashire, BB11 3QZ
- Parking: A designated car park is available off Crown Point Road. From the car park, a well-marked gravel path leads to the sculpture, approximately a 10-15 minute walk.
- Walking Route: The path from the car park to the Singing Ringing Tree is straightforward and suitable for most visitors. Along the way, you’ll be treated to expansive views of Burnley and the surrounding countryside.
2. The Atom, Wycoller
Located in the serene Wycoller Country Park, the Atom is a bronze-coated fiberglass structure resembling a futuristic shelter with circular openings that frame the landscape.
- Address: Wycoller Country Park, Wycoller, Lancashire, BB8 8SY
- Parking: Parking is available at the Haworth Road car park, just north-east of Wycoller village. The car park is free and serves as the starting point for the walking trail to the Atom.
AllTrails - Walking Route: From the car park, follow the waymarked trail towards Foster’s Leap. The walk is approximately 2.5 km (just over 1.5 miles) and should take about an hour.
visitlancashire.com
3. Colourfields, Blackburn
Situated in Blackburn’s Corporation Park, Colourfields is a vibrant transformation of a former cannon battery into a viewing platform. The design incorporates colorful surfaces and offers panoramic views of the park and the town beyond.
- Address: Corporation Park, Revidge Road, Blackburn, Lancashire, BB1 8DJ
- Parking: On-street parking is available on Revidge Road. Visitors are advised to be considerate of local residents when parking.
Helen on Her Holidays - Walking Route: From Revidge Road, enter Corporation Park and follow the signs leading to the former cannon battery area, now home to the Colourfields sculpture. The walk through the park is leisurely, allowing visitors to enjoy the well-maintained gardens and features of the park.
4. The Halo, Haslingden
The Halo is a striking steel structure resembling a spaceship, positioned on a former landfill site transformed into a public space. At night, it is illuminated with blue LED lights, creating a hovering effect over the town of Haslingden.
- Address: Top o’ Slate, Cribden End Lane, Haslingden, Rossendale, Lancashire, BB4 5UD
- Parking: Limited parking is available near the site. Visitors can park at the bottom of the hill and walk up to the Halo. The roads leading directly to the sculpture are steep, making walking a preferable option, especially for those visiting at night to see the illumination.
northwestbylines.co.uk - Walking Route: From the suggested parking area, follow the path up the hill towards the Halo. The walk offers impressive views across Lancashire, including landmarks like the Darwen and Peel Towers and the wind farm on Scout Moor.
traveljunkiegirl.com
Additional Tips:
- Accessibility: While the walking routes to each Panopticon vary in difficulty, most are accessible to visitors with moderate fitness levels. It’s advisable to wear comfortable walking shoes and check weather conditions before your visit.
- Facilities: Facilities such as restrooms and cafes may not be available at all sites. Planning ahead is recommended.
Exploring the Lancashire Panopticons offers a unique blend of art, nature, and local heritage. Each sculpture provides a distinctive perspective of the surrounding landscapes, making them well worth the visit.
How many have you done so far?
Leave a Reply