What'll it be, boys?

Rivington Pike Fair held annually on Whit Saturday was moved to Good Friday in 1900. It was held at the highest part of Georges Lane, close to the summit. The fair attracted people from Horwich, Chorley and further afield. During the 1830s there was an increase in drunken and riotous behaviour following the fair, which brought prompt and stern measures from the local authorities. Two men from Bolton were charged with "Neglect of Divine Service".The arrival of the Manchester and Bolton Railway's extension to Preston and opening of Blackrod railway station in 1841 brought more visitors which was sustained until the introduction of seaside excursions in about 1860, which led to decline in visitors.

In the early 20th century, car and motorcycle races were held up Rivington Pike. From 1906 to 1912, Bolton motorists witnessed the performance of cars and motor-cycles in the hands of some notable drivers of the day on the private roads of the Rivington estate. Under the auspices of the North-East Lancs Automobile Club and the Lancashire Motor-Cycle Club, the first of these hill-climb races took place on 25 July 1906. Competitors were limited to members of the club, and the race was divided into 10 classes according to the list price of the car.

Today, there is no drunkenness, people still struggle to the top of the Pike and the Fair is now more or less just about outdoor eating but it remains a bit of fun on Easter Friday.


Some other photos here.