The best walks and hikes around Oldham

Yes, Oldham has many options for families. For a gentle walk with plenty of space for kids to explore, consider the trails within Tandle Hill Country Park, which offers mature woodlands and great views. Another excellent choice is Daisy Nook Country Park, with its varied landscape of waterways, meadows, and a cafe for refreshments.

Hikers in Oldham are drawn to several key locations. Dove Stone Reservoir is a major hub, acting as a gateway to the dramatic hills of the Peak District. For expansive moorland scenery, many head to Crompton Moor, a highly-regarded spot for its beautiful views. For a different experience, Tandle Hill Country Park is a popular favorite, offering woodland walks and panoramic vistas across the Manchester Plain.

For a strenuous day out, the area offers some fantastic challenges, particularly on the edge of the Peak District. The Chew Valley reservoirs loop from Greenfield is a demanding 12.8-mile (20.5 km) trek with significant elevation gain, rewarding you with a true sense of wilderness on the high moors.

Yes, you can find some beautiful waterfalls in the area. A great option is the Yeoman Hey Reservoir – Birchen Clough Waterfall loop. This route takes you up a scenic clough where you'll be rewarded with views of the cascading water, especially after rainfall.

The Oldham Way is a 40-mile (64 km) long-distance circular trail that encircles the entire borough. It's a fantastic way to experience the full diversity of the local landscape, from windswept moors and quiet valleys to canal towpaths and country parks. It can be tackled in one go or broken down into smaller sections.

Yes, many trailheads are accessible via public transport. For example, the village of Greenfield has a train station and provides an excellent starting point for many walks around Dove Stone Reservoir. Buses also serve many of the villages and country parks throughout the borough, making it possible to plan a hike without a car.

Most trails in Oldham's country parks and public rights of way are dog-friendly. However, when hiking on the open moorlands of Saddleworth, especially during lambing season (typically spring), it's crucial to keep dogs on a short lead to protect livestock and ground-nesting birds. Always look for local signage for specific restrictions.

The weather on the Pennine moorlands can change very quickly. It's essential to wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots as the ground can be boggy. Layering is key, so include a waterproof and windproof jacket, even on a sunny day. A hat, gloves, and a map and compass (or a fully charged phone with a navigation app) are also highly recommended.

Absolutely. The reservoirs are perfect for circular hikes. A popular and scenic option is the Blakeley Reservoir – Black Moss Reservoir loop from Marsden. This moderate walk offers fantastic waterside views and a taste of the surrounding moorland without being overly strenuous.

The trails around Oldham are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the sheer variety of the landscape, from the wild, rugged beauty of the Peak District moors to the tranquil paths in the local country parks. The stunning panoramic views from high points like Hartshead Pike and Dovestone Edge are also a consistent highlight.

Dove Stone Reservoir has a main car park which is very popular and can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. There are charges for parking. For detailed information on parking, including any potential overflow options and facilities, it's best to check the official information. You can find a helpful PDF guide from the local council here: Dove Stone Reservoir Information.