Your Community Hub
The Barlow.. supporting, entertaining and feeding the community of Edgworth..
THE BARLOW, COMMUNITY HUB OF EDGWORTH…
At the heart of the Lancashire village of Edgworth is The Barlow, a truly amazing community facility which, together with the wider Barlow Estate, offers unparalleled opportunities for recreation and leisure, as well as playing host to a wide range of social events and activities of every kind.
Originally, a benefaction from the local philanthropic Barlow family to promote the health, education and social well-being of the local community, the Barlow Estate can trace its development back to 1898 – check out our History to learn more.
Today, The Barlow still holds community well-being at the heart of its core values and is now an entirely volunteer-led charitable organisation.
The Barlow’s centrepiece building, the Memorial Institute, first opened its doors in 1909 and has recently undergone extensive renovation works. Inside you will find a warm welcome awaits in the Reading Room Coffee Shop and Bar. Look further and you will discover our stunning Main Hall, home to many of our community groups and events, but also a truly unique venue for weddings, private parties and corporate events.
Upstairs, and you will find more community facilities including our Library and Snooker Room, which still retain many original features. Visitors can also explore our WW1 Memorial Collection – a Heritage Lottery Funded project tracing the history of many local soldiers during World War 1.
Whatever you want.. we’ve got it..
The Woodland Walk
If you enjoy the outdoors then head out to explore the Barlow’s 3 acres of beautiful woodlands.
Originally known as Barlow Park, the area was laid out in the early 1900s for woodland walks and the opportunity to explore nature in all its glory complete with streams, waterfalls and even a boating lake.
Today, Barlow Woods, as it is now known, still provides woodland trails and, thanks to the efforts of a dedicated band of volunteers, there is much to be discovered. Over 1000 new trees have been planted, new picnic areas and seats have been provided, wildlife habitats are being created and activity areas for children include a Grotto, a Giant’s Seat and a Storyteller’s Area.
Walkers can combine the woodland paths with adjoining trails to create longer walks taking in the scenic countryside around Edgworth and the wider area.
Sports & Recreation
The Barlow Estate started life as a recreation ground and sport is still very much at its heart today.
The recreation ground, the home of Edgworth Cricket and Recreation Club, continues to thrive with both senior and junior teams.
What better way to spend a summer afternoon than relaxing in the sun and taking in a game of cricket? The Club boasts excellent facilities, a modern clubhouse open to members and visitors, and puts on an extensive programme of events and activities.
A floodlit Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) has been a welcome recent addition to the facilities and is available year round for both community use and private hire.
Also, still popular and well used is the floodlit bowling green, the home of Edgworth Bowling Club – a friendly club, again with its own clubhouse, that welcomes members and visitors of all ages.
Play Area
For family fun, children could not wish for anything better than the Barlow’s fantastic new Play Area.
At the centre is the spectacular tower of our double slide helter-skelter and, if you are not feeling so brave, there are swings, climbing frames and roundabouts to suit children of all ages.
Room Hire
Are you looking for the perfect space to hire for your next party or event? You found it..
Charity
Who are we and what do we do? How and why do we do it? Giving to the community..
Soldiers
Meet the soldiers who fought for our freedoms and never forget their sacrifices..
What's On
Activities, groups and events for all age groups.. we are here.. where are you?
News
Keep up to date with community news and updates? Peep through our curtain..
Café
Meet a friend, have lunch and coffee in your community café.. cake is baked..
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