Moors to call yours
The moors of Oldham and Saddleworth offer all of the freedom of their overexposed National Park neighbours – and none of the fatigue.
AT THE NORTHERNMOST fringe of the Peak District, something strange starts to happen. The world’s attention hits black ice – shifting abruptly toward the next National Parks, still a couple of hours distant yet hogging the popular imagination. But for the discerning walker it leaves a wild, beautiful, fascinating part of the Pennines in peace, perfect peace.
The landscapes of Oldham and
Saddleworth Moor are a world of farreaching views, rocky outcrops, tranquil waters and gentle canalside strolls; a place of well-waymarked trails leading to surprising sights. Like the stunning Trinnacle rocks which tower above Dove Stone Reservoir and tempt the gung-ho to their most eye-catching new profile photo. Or the curious Indian’s Head- and Pots and Pans stones. Or the placid, plucky Huddersfield Narrow Canal, which climbs from the Oldham side of the South Pennine moors via a series of locks before plunging into the longest, highest and deepest canal tunnel in the country. You can plumb its 5km depths on a reasonably-priced pleasure cruise, or you can walk the path once trodden by boat horses over Marsden Moor, an expanse of hillside inhabited by golden plover, grouse, curlew and twite.
Easily accessible by road, rail or bus, and with walks suitable for all abilities, these are lovely uplands fringed by towns and villages abuzz with welcoming coffee shops and independent cafes. Together they make a splendid setting for winter adventure high on hills and hospitality. For those wanting a challenge there’s the 42-mile Oldham Way which takes in sights including Dove Stone, Saddleworth Moor, the Medlock Valley and Hartshead Pike. For those looking for fantastic places to refuel after a bracing walk, the pubstudded villages of Uppermill, Dobcross and Delph await. For those with itchy feet who want to make a discovery that will feel your own – Oldham’s uplands are your oyster.