WITH Blue Monday, the most depressing day of the year, looming we asked you to tell us your favourite happy place in and around Bolton.

We wanted to know where you go or where you think of to cheer yourself up and banish those blues.

As ever, you didn’t let us down and it’s clear that Bolton clearly has the power to brighten up your mood.

As with all our five of the best features, this is not meant to be a definitive list. Feel free to let us know your favourite happy place.

Barrow Bridge

THIS small settlement was originally a purpose-built village created when the Lord brothers decided that the area was the ideal location for their cotton mill.

The mill was powered by Dean Brook and the brothers built 13 cottages nearby to house their workers. Their ‘model’ village also included an educational institute for the children of workers.

The mill itself was demolished in 1913 but the village itself has survived and offers some fine walking and great views.

(Picture: Karen Schofield)

Burrs Country Park

A short drive from Bolton, the site which formerly was at the heart of the industrial revolution has been transformed into country park providing a great experience.

It’s clearly a happy place for families with a playground, picnic tables and even a campsite.

During the year, look out for a series of special events ranging from shows to fun days.

Look for the Friends of Burrs Country Park on Facebook.

Bromley Cross

This popular residential area was unsurprisingly nominated as a happy place by a number of you. The big surprise was that it wasn’t just by people lucky enough to live there.

The area often features in lists of the best places to bring up a family and there are some great walks to be had and some beautiful scenery never too far away.

Bromley Cross lies on the southern edge of the West Pennine Moors and is easily accessible with its own railway station.

It takes its name from an ancient cross which has long since disappeared.

Rivington Pike

Offering some of the finest panoramic views, a walk to Rivington Pike is a fine way to blow away the cobwebs and brighten the mood.

Part of the West Pennine Moors, the distinctive square tower is a landmark you can see from miles away. It was built in 1733 to serve as a hunting lodge by the owner of Rivington Hall. There are two access roads and numerous footpaths to explore.

(Picture: Susan Swain)

Entwistle Reservoir

Located in Edgworth, Turton and Entwistle Reservoir to give it its full name, was built in 1832 and at the time the dam which held back the water was the highest in England.

When combined with the nearby Wayoh reservoir, it provide around half of Bolton’s water supply.

A favourite a spot for walkers the views can be spectacular and change with the seasons. There is a relatively easy circular walk to try. (Picture: Grant Roberston)