We’re committed to bringing information that can help make small, positive changes to your health and one of the simplest changes one can make is simply taking a walk. To help inspire positive changes, we’re looking at some of the best walking routes in and around the city of Manchester.
(1) Watergrove Reservoir
Near the town of Wardle, the Watergrove Reservoir is a circular walk spanning 2 miles that contains a range of wildlife along the way. The surrounding moorland provides a tranquil background for your walk across Cheshire, and the path also runs past the Weighver’s Way - a more challenging walk spanning 9 miles.
(2) Chorlton Water Park
Found near the River Mersey, Chorlton Water Park contains a large lake and a nature reserve. With a path navigating the area that stretches to around a mile long, enjoy a comfortable stroll whilst observing some of the park’s wildlife.
If you want to explore this route but feel that a mile-long walk simply isn’t enough then worry not – the park’s convenient location by the Mersey allows the avid walker to follow that path in addition!
(3) Rochdale Canal
Following the canal path fully will lead to a 33-mile adventure starting in Manchester and travelling through Yorkshire, with a destination of Sowerby Bridge. Immerse yourself in nature as you walk with some spectacular scenery as you pass by the winding route of the canal.
Rochdale Canal also offers a National Cycle Network route, for those who wish to bring their bike along!
(4) Bollin Valley Way
A 25-mile voyage through Greater Manchester and Cheshire, following the waterways and passing by a number of locations, including Mottram Hall – a sturdy yet stunning 18th century building – and a number of other incredible natural fixtures.
(5) Heaton Park
Manchester’s largest park, spread across 600 acres and featuring incredible ornamental gardens and a petting zoo amongst other attractions. Heaton has a number of walking routes that span the park, the longest of which is 3 miles long.
(6) Blackstone Edge
A rather edgy walk compared to others listed – the journey to the summit stretches to 2 miles in length with numerous vertical inclines. The highest point of the Blackstone Edge stands at a grandiose 472m above sea level, and the reward for reaching the summit is a momentous view: Manchester city centre, Winter Hill and on a clear day, even the Welsh mountains!
(7) Tame Valley Way
Tame Valley Way contains a plethora of woodland sections contrasted with extended riversides that pass by the River Tame. Passing through areas like Mossley and Ashton-under-Lyne, this 23-mile route is quite the journey.
We hope you enjoyed the journey this guide provided. Small changes make a big impact –a gentle nuj such as this could inspire people to work to prevent diabetes.