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The uplands of northern England are famous for their endless running and walking trails. As a result, millions of outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to the Lake District, Peak District, and Yorkshire Dales every year; but there are many stunning areas that offer great scenery with just a fraction of the crowds.
The wild Pennine landscapes that surround Oldham and Saddleworth remain relatively undiscovered. Here you'll find everything from rugged rocky outcrops and broad swathes of moorland with huge views, to gentle canal towpaths and independent cafes.
Stunning scenery and wildlife
This is a place of immense drama and beauty all year round, with spectacular views over Greater Manchester and West Yorkshire.
Saddleworth Moor also forms part of the South Pennines Moors area and is designated as a Special Area of Conservation and a Special Protection Area due its abundant birdlife, with breeding populations of red grouse, curlew, and merlin; plus golden plover, dunlin and the short-eared owl.
Saddleworth itself is packed with iconic landmarks too – such as the Pots and Pans stone above Uppermill and Greenfield, which legend claims was left behind after a battle between warring giants Alphin and Alder. Then there's Hartshead Pike on the border with neighbouring Ashton, plus the Indians Head and the Trinnacle (pictured below) above Dove Stone Reservoir.
The weather can be wild though, so don't forget to pack your waterproofs!
Something for everyone
Don't worry if you aren't a super-fit walker or runner, because there's something for every ability in Oldham or Saddleworth. The area is easily accessible by road, rail, or bus; and the network of trails across Saddleworth and Mardsen Moors are well-marked and easy to follow.
And picturesque Saddleworth isn't just about hills and moors – it's also packed with historic villages including Uppermill, Dobcross and Delph. They're all great places to relax and refuel after a long day on the trails; with an excellent selection of country pubs, shops and cafes.
Long-distance challenge
If it's a running or walking challenge you're looking for, check out the 42-mile Oldham Way, which starts at Dove Stone Reservoir and continues over Saddleworth Moor to Diggle and Castleshaw Moor to Denshaw. The Oldham Way then follows the canal through Chadderton to Failsworth, before joining the Medlock Valley to Daisy Nook and Park Bridge followed by a climb over Hartshead Pike to Quick.
Our favourite routes around Saddleworth
To help you plan your own adventure in the glorious countryside of Oldham and Saddleworth, we've picked out five our favourite trails in the area. Click the links below to discover the
Dove Stone Reservoir walk, from Country Walking magazine: MAPPED ROUTE
Wilderness Gully scramble, from Trail magazine: MAPPED ROUTE
Wessenden Reservoir walk, from Country Walking magazine: MAPPED ROUTE
Black Hill hike, from Trail magazine: MAPPED ROUTE
Torside Reservour Walk, from Country Walking magazine: MAPPED ROUTE