7 of the most scenic walks in Manchester
Manchester is bordered by the Pennines, with trails running through its moors. These walks also pass historic buildings, rivers, canals and woodland.
Ashworth Valley
The Ashworth Valley offers many views from its hillside areas and wooded river valleys. This 3-mile walk passes the River Roch, Queen's Park, rugged upland countryside and ruins from the area's early industries.
By car take the B6222 Rochdale to Bury road. Parking near the junction of Ashworth Road, or at Queen's Park. Buses run from Rochdale bus station. Nearest railway station - Rochdale.
Image source
Etherow Country Park
This 3.5 mile walk takes you through Keg Wood, Sunny Corner Woods, past Keg Pool, through Ernocroft Wood and to Etherow Resevoir. A quiet woodland walk by rivers and streams, mill ponds and leading to views of the Goyt Valley.
Bus 383 from Stockport Town Centre. Get off at Marple Bridge, then cross the road and turn right up the footpath. Starts from Etherow Country Park car park.
Holcombe Moor and Ramsbottom
This sometimes challenging circuit has views, riversides, woodland and heritage. From Peel Tower there are views over Manchester and the North West. Takes 2-3 hours.
Starting Point: Ramsbottom Station (Railway Street). Buses 472 and 474 go to Ramsbottom from Bury Interchange in Bury Town Centre
Winter Hill
Starting at a medieval manor house and going up to Winter Hill. At nearly 1500 feet, you can see the Peak District and Pennines, sometimes as far as North Wales and the Isle of Man. There's a 4-mile circuit, or the longer 8-mile walk through high moorland.
Starts at Smithills Hall. Bus 526 Monday-Saturday, bus 527 on Sundays.
Image source
Hawkshaw and Affetside
This 8.5 mile walk goes through moorland and along lanes and field paths. It starts at Holcombe Brook and goes towards Redisher Wood. Ring 01204 882991 to check part of the route hasn't been closed for military training. Distance: Approx 8.5 miles/13 km Allow about 3.5-4.5 hours
Starts from the Hare and Hounds pub, Holcombe Brook. By Car turn right before the pub, going up Lumb Carr Road (B6214) for parking. Buses 472 and 474 go to Ramsbottom from Bury Interchange. Stop directly outside the Pub.
Middlewood Way, Macclesfield Canal
A flat, relaxed walk by a reclaimed railway line with woodland surroundings, coming back along the Macclesfield Canal. Approximately 8.5 miles (or a longer 10.5 miles if you take the detour).
Bus 383 to Marple from Stockport bus station. Marple also has a train station. Parking on Railway Road.
Wigan Pier to Leigh Bridge
A trail along a canal, starting at Wigan Pier, passing lakes and waterways and brooks. 7.75 miles
Regular buses run between Wigan and Leigh.
Greater Manchester Public Transport Information: 0871 200 2233 www.tfgm.com
Trains: Tel 0161 764 7790 or visit www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk