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Five scenic walks to get you out and about

Written by
Sam McCaffrey
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The nights are getting lighter, the days are getting brighter and now that summer is on its way it’s time to get a spring in your step and put the sunny weather to good use. What better way to do that then to get outside for a wander in the countryside, and maybe even take the scenic route to a good rural pub.

Manchester is an ideal location to go forth and explore all that nature has to offer. It’s full of parks and green spaces, and is barely a stone’s throw from the Peak District. So if you fancy putting on those walking boots and going for a ramble, here’s a list of five scenic walks to give you a taste of what our local area has to offer.

The South Pennine Water Trail

Hollingworth LakeRussell Lee Photography

An easy five mile walk to get you started. Along this trail you’ll discover Hollingworth Lake and Littleborough as well as some scenic views over the Pennines.

The circular walks starts easy going through the Ealees Valley and along the Rochdale Canal but then the final stretch becomes a little more testing, but you are rewarded with stunning views over Littleborough, Rochdale and beyond.

Chadkirk Country Estate

Bluebell Woods at Chadkirk Country Estate, MarpleStockport Council

If you fancy a more sedate stroll why not try this short two mile trek located on the River Goyt near Marple. Walking through the estate you’ll have the chance to see a 60 acre farm, an old orchard, woodland and a 16th century chapel with an audio visual presentation on the history of the site. Plus those lovely bluebells! 

Goyt Way

Woodley Bridge, Peak Forest CanalDavid Jones

The longest walk on the list so far, this is a ten mile ramble that runs along the Peak Forest Canal and the River Goyt. It’s a waterside walk that will take you through Greater Manchester and Derbyshire and provide beautiful scenery.

Starting by Etherow Country Park Lake in Compstall the walk heads south through Marple, following the canal, and then joins the River Goyt to New Mills, from there it picks up the canal again as it goes on to Whaley Bridge.

Peel Tower, Holcombe Moor and Ramsbottom

Peel Tower viewed from Harcles HillRoger W Haworth

A six mile walk that is a tad more strenuous than the others for the more adventurous among you. Don’t let that scare you off though as if you put in the effort you’ll find this is a circular walk that provides everything you could be looking for; heritage, river rambling and woodland views.

Peel Tower, dedicated to former Prime Minister and Metropolitan Police founder Sir Robert Peel, is a particular highlight. Here you can rest, catch your breath and admire the stunning views across Manchester. You can then explore the town of Ramsbottom, which has become a popular destination for foodies and craft beer lovers.

Bolin Valley Way

Dunham Massey HallPaul

You’d best be up for a challenge before tackling this bad boy, clocking in at 25 miles this walk is by far the longest on the list.

Following the River Bolin from Macclesfield to Partington, it is a waterside walk full of lovely scenery that takes in Prestbury, Wilmslow, Hale and Bowden along the way.

On the route you’ll pass the 18th century Mottram Hall and the National Trust-owned Dunham Massey Hall - a Georgian House set in a magnificent 300 acre deer park which boasts Britain's largest winter garden.

See more things to do in Manchester from Time Out.

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