Lathom
The lovely rural parish of Lathom lies to the east of Ormskirk
and Burscough, just off the A59.
One of it's most charming features is the 'Top Locks' area of the
Leeds and Liverpool canal, reached by a concealed turning into
Wheat Lane over a wooden swing bridge. Strollers can wander along
the Rufford branch of the canal or follow the main canal towards
Newburgh.
Lathom House is another important historical feature of the parish.
The original house was destroyed by order of Parliament after the
Civil War and the later 18th Century residence of the Earls of
Lathom was partly demolished in 1925, only one wing still
remaining.
The 400-acre park, situated off Hall Lane, was the site of the
Remount Depot, an army training ground for horses, during the
1914-18 war. After the war the Earl moved to nearby Blythe
Hall.
The Earl, who was a patron of the theatre, erected the unusual WI
Hall in Hall Lane during this time and persuaded many famous
personalities including Ivor Novello and Noel Coward to perform on
its tiny stage.
In Lathom Park stands the ancient chapel and almshouses, formerly
known as the Hospital of St John, and used as a retreat for monks.
A short distance away are the famous Pilkington Glass Research
Laboratories.
Map:
Lathom Parish