Lea combines listed buildings with a landscape shaped by field ponds, small areas of deciduous woodland and gently rolling lowland farmland. Two perspectives can help you find your way around: the linear settlement pattern of Lea Town and the different walking and cycling routes. This lets you tailor your stay to architectural history, the landscape or a particular tour.
Village and Landscape
Lea Town is a predominantly linear settlement extending along Darkinson Lane and Lea Lane. The landscape around Lea Town is gently rolling lowland farmland at elevations of 15 to 35 metres above sea level. It also has a high density of field ponds and small areas of deciduous woodland. Together, the farmland, ponds and trees create a distinctive landscape; the elevation also identifies it as lowland. This distinction is useful when choosing between architectural and landscape themes: the buildings are named heritage sites, while the ponds, farmland and trees describe the character of the surrounding area.
Listed Buildings and Mass
Old Lea Hall Farmhouse is listed as a Grade I building. The Cross on Corner at Junction with Lea Lane is also listed, at Grade II. The restored stone cross stands on a worked glacial erratic base, which is probably medieval. The physical description of the cross and the cautious dating of its base add context to its status as a heritage site.
Mass is celebrated at St Mary’s Chapel in Lea Town every Sunday and on special occasions. If the Mass time is important for your plans, check the current time in advance, as times may change.
Walking and Cycling
Lea Footpath 7 runs east from Lea Lane via Bryars Farm to Sidgreaves Lane; the route also passes through Earl’s Farm. These named places provide specific points of reference along the route. Check the current public right of way conditions before setting out.
National Cycle Route 62 runs east–west on roads through Lea Town, along Darkinson Lane. It continues to Cottam via Sidgreaves Lane and Cottam Way. The routes described therefore differ in direction and type: Footpath 7 is a walking route heading east and passing farms, while Route 62 is a road route for cyclists through the village. Routes may change; check the current route before your trip.
A walking guide published on 28 December 2016 names The Smiths Arms in Lea Town as the starting point for a 5.5-mile walk described as leisurely. While the information about Footpath 7 specifies its direction and places along the way, this guide also gives the route length and describes the nature of the walk. Check the current route before making plans today.
Plan Your Stay
Discover more destinations: Accrington, Chorley, Bacup, Charnock Richard, Claughton-on-Brock, Broughton, West Bradford, Oswaldtwistle.
For the main travel overview: Lancashire.
