Greater Manchester Walking Weekends Join our free guided walks Routes to suit all ages and abilities Join us for a wonderful weekend 16-18 September 2016 of walking adventures 21-23 October 2016
WELCOME Discover where buses can take you Welcome to Greater Manchester Walking Weekends, a series of fun, free, guided walks taking place across the region over a number of weekends in autumn and spring. Following the huge success of the Greater Manchester Walking Festival, we ve teamed up with local walking groups once again to create more opportunities for people to get active in Greater Manchester. The first of our Walking Weekends will take place this autumn, with 40 walks to choose from over two weekends. Many of the walks follow existing trails and routes, of varying lengths and difficulties. All of the walks are easy to get to by public transport, so there s no reason not to jump on a tram, train or bus and explore somewhere new. The new way to find direct bus services to where you want to go, view bus stops and download timetables. tfgm.com/route-explorer Access it wherever you are In this booklet you ll find the walk details, including the date and time they take place, where they start and finish, how long they are, and a brief description of each route, so you can decide whether it s for you. There s no need to book on most of our walks, just turn up at the right time on the day, make sure you re wearing sensible clothing and comfortable shoes and pack some water and refreshments, depending on how long your chosen walk is. For our autumn Walking Weekends we re delighted to be working with the following partners: Manchester and Salford Ramblers, Bury Council, City of Trees, Oldham Council and Oldham Community Leisure. We d like to say a big thank you to these groups and their experienced walk leaders, who will be guiding you on your walking adventure. We look forward to working with more walking partners in other areas of Greater Manchester for our spring Walking Weekends in February and March and for our annual Walking Festival in May 2017. Enjoy the walks and we ll see you on the trails! Carragh Teague, Walking Coordinator, Transport for Greater Manchester For more information, to order more brochures, or provide feedback, contact us on: 0161 244 1145 walking.works@tfgm.com 3
Welcome Safety and Guidance What to wear and bring Things to note WALKING KEY Please wear comfortable and sturdy shoes or boots for all walks. We can t guarantee the weather, so be sure to bring a waterproof coat or jacket in case it rains. If it s sunny, pack a hat and some sun cream, especially for those longer walks. It s also a good idea to bring water and a snack, as not all walks offer opportunities for refreshments. Health and safety All walks are undertaken at your own risk. Walk leaders take every care to ensure that the walks are undertaken in a safe manner. Transport for Greater Manchester and walk leaders are not responsible for any accidents or injuries that may occur. Many of the walks in this brochure are accessible to people with limited mobility. However, it is recommended that you check with the walk organiser prior to a walk if you have any specific requirements, including wheelchair access, or if you are unable to step over stiles. Please arrive 10 minutes before a walk begins so that you can locate the group and be ready to start the walk at the right time. Walks may also be cancelled or modified due to adverse weather conditions, so please ring the contact number listed to make sure the walk is taking place. It is advisable to check the meeting location in advance with the organiser. Car parking available Toilet facilities Cafe nearby Picnic area Dogs permitted (on a lead) Wheelchair accessible Buggy accessible Walking grades EASY FAIRLY EASY MEDIUM CHALLENGING On well maintained flat surfaces On slight gradients and possibly some uneven paths On uneven or unsurfaced paths with some steep gradients and possible steps or stiles Suitable for experienced walkers, longer distance with mixed terrain and gradients 4 5
4 3 5 16-18 SEPTEMBER GREATER 2 6 21-23 OCTOBER MANCHESTER WALKING 1 BURY N WEEKENDS 7 8 31 19 OLDHAM 11 9 10 30 29 28 39 38 27 SALFORD 37 34 26 35 36 32 33 23 25 24 15 17 16 18 21 22 20 12 MANCHESTER Find a walk near you Walks 1-6: Bury Village Link Trail (Pages 10-13) Walks led by Bury Sport and Physical Activity Service Walks 7-11: Oldham Let s Go For A Walk (Pages 14-17) Walks led by Oldham Council and Oldham Community Leisure Walks 12-20: Manchester's Green Corridor (Pages 18-23) Walks led by Manchester and Salford Ramblers Walks 23-33: Salford Trail (Pages 28-33) Walks led by Manchester and Salford Ramblers Walks 34-39: Trafford 'Heritage Trees Trail' (Pages 34-37) Walks led by City of Trees /GMWalkingFestival www.tfgm.com/walking walking.walks@tfgm.com TRAFFORD Walks 21-22: Manchester City Centre (Pages 24-25) 14 Walks led by Manchester 13 and Salford Ramblers 6 7
What's on What's on What's on Walk name Walk route Page Friday 16 September Greenmount Village to Walshaw Bury Village Link Trail 11 Alexandra Park Historic Walk and Talk Oldham 'Let's Go For A Walk' 15 Canal Walk Manchester City Centre 25 Sale Water Park and Priory Gardens Trafford 'Heritage Trees Trail' 35 Saturday 17 September 2016 Greenmount Village to Bury Village Link Trail 11 Rowlands Road Cross Key Circular Oldham 'Let's Go For A Walk' 15 Levenshulme to Debdale Park Manchester's Green Corridor 19 Queens Park and Irk Valley Manchester's Green Corridor 19 Worsley Woods Salford Trail 29 Peel Park Salford Trail 29 Clifton Country Park Salford Trail 29 Longford Park to Sale Water Park Trafford 'Heritage Trees Trail' 35 Sunday 18 September Holcombe, Ramsbottom and Park Farm Bury Village Link Trail 12 Tandle Hill Oldham 'Let's Go For A Walk' 16 Heaton Park Manchester's Green Corridor 19 Debdale Park to Clayton Manchester's Green Corridor 20 Monton Green Salford Trail 29 Kersal Moor Salford Trail 30 Kersal Dale to Bury New Road Salford Trail 30 Urmston Meadows and Old Ees Brook Trafford 'Heritage Trees Trail' 36 Walk name Walk route Page Friday 21 October 2016 Holcombe to Hawkshaw Bury Village Link Trail 12 Alexandra Park Historic Walk and Talk Oldham 'Let's Go For A Walk' 15 From Chetham's to Spinningfields Manchester City Centre 25 The Parks of Sale Trafford 'Heritage Trees Trail' 36 Saturday 22 October 2016 Ainsworth, Affetside to Hawkshaw Bury Village Link Trail 13 Dovestone Edges Oldham 'Let's Go For A Walk' 16 Philips Park to Clayton Vale Manchester's Green Corridor 20 Around Fletcher Moss Park Manchester's Green Corridor 21 Media City Salford Trail 31 Walkden Loopline Salford Trail 31 Peel Park and the Meadows Salford Trail 32 Trans Pennine Trail Trek Trafford 'Heritage Trees Trail' 37 Sunday 23 October 2016 Park Farm, Nangreaves to Rowlands Road Bury Village Link Trail 13 Dovestone Reservoir Oldham 'Let's Go For A Walk' 16 Boggart Hole Clough Manchester's Green Corridor 21 Chorlton Water Park to Wythenshawe Park Manchester's Green Corridor 22 Ardwick Green to Whitworth Park Manchester's Green Corridor 22 Blackleach Country Park Salford Trail 32 Salford Quays Salford Trail 32 Wellacre Country Park and Jack Lane Nature Reserve Trafford 'Heritage Trees Trail' 37 8 9
BURY VILLAGE LINK TRAIL Meet one of our walk leaders Name: Jean Foster After retiring in July 2015 I was keen to be more active so joined some walks in the Bury and Rochdale areas. A walk leader was leaving the area and I was offered the role on the basis that I had a good knowledge of the routes and the people who regularly attended. I Will If You Will provided training and I took to it like a duck to water. Since then I have led walks in other parts of the borough and helped develop new walks around Bury. What I enjoy most about being a walk leader is preparing for the walk. Two of my weekly walks always start from the same place, but it's important to vary the route and I use this as an opportunity to mix it up. I also like to watch the group change each week; you never know who's going to turn up on a particular day. On each walk, different groups form as they walk at their own pace, chat and find out what they have in common. Walk leading to me is as much a social occasion as it is a form of exercise and the time whizzes past! Booking is essential for all Bury walks. Please contact Maria Cranston, details below. Greenmount Village to Walshaw Friday 16 September, 1:30pm Walk overview: A walk taking in three villages, the ruins of Tottington Mill and a string of mill ponds with an abundance of associated wildlife. The walk follows some of the Kirklees Valley Nature Trail. After a short rest at the War Memorial in Walshaw, the walk then returns to Greenmount Village, ending at the Toby Carvery (opposite Greenmount school), where walkers can stop for refreshments. Distance: 5-6 miles (MEDIUM) Meeting point: Greenmount Old School. WALK 2 Bury Village Link Trail Greenmount Village to Rowlands Road Saturday 17 September, 11am Walk overview: An interesting walk beginning through some of the Kirklees Valley Nature Trail, before crossing open countryside and heading down into Summerseat, across the River Irwell & East Lancashire Railway. The walk then briefly joins the Irwell Sculpture Trail before heading up towards Walmersley Road where walkers can rest at the Nabbs Farm Cafe. The walk ends at the Toby Carvery (opposite the Greenmount Old School). Distance: 5 miles (MEDIUM) Meeting point: Greenmount Old School. WALK 3 About the trail The Village Link is a unique trail connecting six of Bury s most historic villages. The trail is approximately 18 miles in total and consists of seven distinct sections, each varying in length and landscape. The sections are between two and seven miles long and ideal for everyone, from seasoned walkers to weekend strollers. In addition to the overall route map, each section comes with its own colour coded, user friendly, individual map (available when you join a walk). 10 The maps include all of the places of interest along the route, such as picnic sites, viewpoints and even the whereabouts of the occasional public bench to rest tired legs and aching feet after longer walks. Group name Bury Sport and Physical Activity Service Contact Maria Cranston, 0161 253 6396, email m.cranston@bury.gov.uk or visit www.village-link.com Illustration by Janet Brady 11
Bury Village Link Trail Bury Village Link Trail Holcombe, Ramsbottom and Park Farm Holcombe to Hawkshaw Friday 21 October, 1:30pm Ainsworth, Affetside to Hawkshaw Park Farm, Nangreaves to Rowlands Road Sunday 18 September, 11am Walk overview: A walk starting from the historic village of Holcombe and heading through Ramsbottom into Nuttall Park. Next, a steep climb up Jacob s ladder (steps) where walkers can enjoy views of the gorge and waterfall. Before heading back to Holcombe, the walk crosses open countryside to Manchester Road, where walkers can enjoy a well deserved rest at the Park Farm Garden Centre Cafe. Distance: 4 miles (MEDIUM) Meeting point: Shoulder of Mutton, Lumb Carr Road. Public transport: Ramsbottom train station and bus stops nearby. Walk overview: Walk from the village of Holcombe, which sits beneath the monumental Peel Tower, along scenic paths, through woodland and open countryside, to the attractive village of Hawkshaw. There are some great views to be had along the way in both directions, and an opportunity for those seeking refreshments to visit the Shoulder of Mutton at the end of the walk. Distance: 4 miles (MEDIUM) Meeting point: Shoulder of Mutton, Lumb Carr Road. Saturday 22 October, 11am Walk overview: Starting in the village of Ainsworth, this walk takes you on a journey following in the footsteps of the Roman Legions to the small linear village of Affetside. The walk then drops down to the Two Brooks Valley passing through the ruins of an old mill to arrive in Hawkshaw. On the return walk to Ainsworth, walkers can enjoy a well deserved rest break at the historic Pack Horse in Affetside. Distance: 6-7 miles (MEDIUM) Meeting point: Ainsworth Parish Church. Sunday 23 October, 11am Walk overview: A walk encompassing woodland, meadows and wonderful views from the Pennines across the Cheshire Plains to the distant peaks of North Wales. Walkers can take advantage of the delightful refreshments at the Nabbs Farm Cafe before returning back to Park Farm where the walk ends. Distance: 4-5 miles (MEDIUM) Meeting point: Park Farm Garden Centre. WALK 6 WALK 4 WALK 5 WALK 1 Illustration by Janet Brady 12 13
OLDHAM 'LET'S GO FOR A WALK' Meet one of our walk leaders Name: Alan Keane I work for Oldham Community Leisure and have done for 12 years as the Outdoor Pursuits and Events Officer. I'm a qualified mountain leader and single pitch award climbing instructor, and also lead Nordic walks. Following my previous career as a hairdresser, I diversified into the world of active lifestyles. I've always been a keen walker and have led walks for many years, meeting people and seeing their health and wellbeing improve as a result. I've made many friends over the years through leading activities, particularly walking, and get a real buzz from seeing people progress. Working in partnership with Oldham s Environmental Services team, Oldham Community Leisure wants everyone to enjoy walking and physical activity. To this end, we feel a good walk leader is approachable, makes everyone feel comfortable and welcome on the walk, has a good knowledge of the routes and ensures everyone s enjoyment in the process. Alexandra Park Historic Walk and Talk Friday 16 September, 11am Friday 21 October, 11am Walk overview: Explore Alexandra Park and learn about its rich history on this fascinating walk. Opened in 1865, this was the first public park in Oldham, named to commemorate the marriage of the Prince of Wales to Princess Alexandra of Denmark. Distance: 1-2 miles (FAIRLY EASY) Meeting point: Kings Road car park, Alexandra Park, OL8 2BH. Public transport: Oldham Central Metrolink and bus stop nearby. WALK 11 OLDHAM 'LET'S GO FOR A WALK' Cross Key Circular Saturday 17 September, 9:45am Walk overview: This circular route takes walkers to the iconic war memorial obelisk at the Pots n Pans with great views of the Saddleworth Villages, Oldham, Manchester and beyond. It then goes on to Alderman Hill where walkers can take a short break for lunch and enjoy the tremendous view over Chew Valley. The route then heads over the moors to the trig point on Broadstone Hill, before returning to the Cross Keys pub. Distance: 4 miles (CHALLENGING) Meeting point: Cross Keys Inn. Public transport: Greenfield train station and bus stop nearby. WALK 8 About the walks Oldham is a culturally diverse town with a historic and industrial past. The town has award winning urban and countryside parks and is framed by the breathtaking moorland landscape of the Peak District National Park. Explore this fascinating area with Let s Go For A Walk, a joint initiative between Oldham Community Leisure and Oldham Council. Let s Go For A Walk aims to encourage people to take those first steps towards a healthier lifestyle, by offering free guided walks across Oldham s fantastic parks and countryside sites. Group name Oldham Council and Oldham Community Leisure Contact Euey Madden, 07801 204 782 or email euey.madden@oldham.gov.uk Alan Keane, 07715 078 239, email alan.keane@ocll.co.uk or visit www.walkingforhealth.org.uk/ walkfinder/oldham-lets-go-for-walk 14 15
OLDHAM 'LET'S GO FOR A WALK' OLDHAM 'LET'S GO FOR A WALK' Tandle Hill Sunday 18 September, 10am Walk overview: A pleasant walk around Tandle Hill, an area of beech woodland and open grassland with views across the valley towards Manchester. Distance: 1 mile (MEDIUM) Meeting point: Tandle Hill Country Park car park. Public transport: Bus stop nearby. WALK 7 Dovestone Edges Saturday 22 October, 9:45am Walk overview: Leaving the Clarence pub, the walk will ascend steeply to the trig point at the summit of Alphin Pike (469m). Following the edges that pass Wimberry Stones and Chew Reservoir, you will then descend at the Fox Stone and return via Dovestone Reservoir and Bradbury Lane. Distance: 7-8 miles (CHALLENGING) Meeting point: The Clarence pub, Greenfield. Public transport: Train station and bus stop nearby. Dovestone Reservoir Sunday 23 October, 10am WALK 9 Walk overview: A secluded walk around Dovestone Reservoir, part of the Peak District National Park, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Distance: 3-4 miles (MEDIUM) Meeting point: Dovestones car park. WALK 10 16 17
MANCHESTER'S GREEN CORRIDOR MANCHESTER'S GREEN CORRIDOR Levenshulme to Debdale Park Saturday 17 September, 11am Queens Park and Irk Valley Saturday 17 September, 2pm About the trail Manchester s Green Corridor is a walking circuit made up of 14 routes which connect many of the beautiful green spaces and tree lined streets around the city. Most of the walks are about 4 miles long, but many of them have been shortened for this festival to encourage walkers of all abilities to get involved. Meet one of our walk leaders Name: Salle Dare Walk overview: This walk starts on Stockport Road and passes through parks and green spaces before ending at Debdale Park. Distance: 3 miles (FAIRLY EASY) Meeting point: Bus stop at Crowcroft Park, Stockport Road, opposite Cayton Street. End point: Debdale Park, Gorton. Public transport: Bus stop nearby. WALK 15 Walk overview: A fascinating walk around the historical Queens Park and river. Distance: 2 miles (FAIRLY EASY) Meeting point: Corner of Rochdale Road and Queens Road. Public transport: Queens Road Metrolink and bus stops nearby. WALK 18 Group name Manchester and Salford Ramblers Contact Salle Dare, 0161 861 8491, email salle_e_dare@yahoo.co.uk or visit www.gettingmanchester moving.nhs.uk I'm retired now but used to work in the NHS. I've been walking for many years and one of the reasons I lead walks is to share the pleasure I get from walking with other people and to encourage new people to take up walking. In the Ramblers we want everyone to enjoy walking and we think a good walk leader is someone who makes you feel welcome on the walk, knows where they are going and makes sure everyone is safe. Heaton Park Sunday 18 September, 11am Walk overview: Take in the sights of Heaton Park on this circular walk. Distance: 2 miles (EASY) Meeting point: Gate opposite Heaton Park Metrolink. Public transport: Heaton Park Metrolink and bus stop nearby. WALK 19 18 19
MANCHESTER'S GREEN CORRIDOR MANCHESTER'S GREEN CORRIDOR Debdale Park to Clayton Sunday 18 September, 2pm Philips Park to Clayton Vale Around Fletcher Moss Park Boggart Hole Clough Sunday 23 October, 11am Walk overview: A fairly easy walk through Debdale Park along the Fallowfield Loopline and the Ashton Canal to Clayton Hall. Distance: 3 miles (FAIRLY EASY) Meeting point: Debdale Park Entrance on Hyde Road. End point: Clayton Metrolink, Ashton New Road. Public transport: Bus stop near start and end points. Clayton Metrolink by end point. Saturday 22 October, 11am Walk overview: This route goes through Philips Park to Clayton Vale and along the Medlock Valley. Distance: 4 miles (FAIRLY EASY) Meeting point: Entrance to Philips Park on Stuart Street just off Alan Turing Way. Public transport: Etihad Campus Metrolink and bus stops nearby. Saturday 22 October, 2pm Walk overview: A circular walk around Fletcher Moss Park, a beautiful green space with alpine gardens and a nature reserve. Distance: 2 miles (EASY) Meeting point: Entrance to Fletcher Moss Park, Corner of Millgate Lane and Wilmslow Road. Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Walk overview: Explore the wooded areas of Boggart Hole Clough on this relaxed walk. Distance: 2 miles (EASY) Meeting point: Main Gates of Boggart Hole Clough on Rochdale Road. Public transport: Bus stop nearby. WALK 20 WALK 12 WALK 17 WALK 13 20 21
MANCHESTER'S GREEN CORRIDOR MANCHESTER'S GREEN CORRIDOR Chorlton Water Park to Wythenshawe Park Sunday 23 October, 2pm Walk overview: Starting at the lake, this walk goes through Kenworthy Woods to Wythenshawe Park. Distance: 2 miles (EASY) Meeting point: Entrance to Chorlton Water Park. End point: Wythenshawe Hall. Public transport: Bus stops near start and end points. Wythenshawe Park Metrolink near end point. Ardwick Green to Whitworth Park Sunday 23 October, 2pm Walk overview: This walk winds through Platt Fields Park and ends at Whitworth Park. Distance: 4 miles (FAIRLY EASY) Meeting point: Ardwick Green Park, opposite Esso Garage. End point: Whitworth Park. WALK 16 WALK 14 22 23
Manchester city centre MANCHESTER CITY CENTRE Canal Walk Friday 16 September, 6pm From Chetham s to Spinningfields About the walks Manchester city centre is bursting with culture, creativity and rich history. These walks have been put together to allow you to experience the city from a unique perspective, as you stroll down waterways and cross urban green space. Discover a side of Manchester you ve never seen before with these routes, perfect for walkers of all abilities. Meet one of our walk leaders Name: Mags Metcalf Walk overview: Starting at the Bridgewater Hall, this walk takes you along Manchester s renowned canals including the Rochdale and Bridgewater canals and then on to the Castlefield area. Distance: 2 miles (EASY) Meeting point: The Bridgewater Hall, Lower Mosley Street, Manchester, M2 3WS End point: Castlefield, Manchester. Public transport: Train stations, Metrolink stations and bus stops nearby. WALK 22 Friday 21 October, 6pm Walk overview: Explore the sights and sounds of Manchester, starting at the well known Chetham's Music School and heading towards Spinningfields, past old and new buildings and architecture. Distance: 3 miles (EASY) Meeting point: Chetham's Music School, Long Millgate, M3 1SB. End point: Spinningfields, Hardman Street, M3 3AQ. Public transport: Train stations, Metrolink stations and bus stops nearby. WALK 21 Group name Manchester and Salford Ramblers Contact Mags Metcalf, 07947 864534, email margaretmetcalf58@hotmail.com or visit www.manchesterandsalford ramblers.org.uk " I love walking and the benefits I get from it; keeping fit, meeting new people and discovering new areas where I live and further afield in the countryside which isn't too far away. Some walks are easy and some are more challenging, which is good as it increases fitness levels. In our group we have short walks, medium walks and long walks, all led by experienced walk leaders." 24 25
It s been good to go on a walk where the leader has a knowledge of the area. I walk a lot and it made a pleasant change not having to plan it! Yvonne 'Parks of Sale walk with City of Trees, Greater Manchester Walking Festival 2016 26 27
Salford trail SALFORD TRAIL Peel Park Saturday 17 September, 11am Worsley Woods Saturday 17 September, 11am About the trail The Salford Trail weaves through picturesque country parks, urban heritage areas and borders canals and rivers. The trail uses looplines, old railway tracks now transformed into traffic free highways, to reach every corner of this surprisingly rural city. The trail is largely off road and easy to follow with its own way markers. Meet one of our walk leaders Name: Maggie Smith Walk overview: Stroll towards Manchester city centre and along the River Irwell towpath on this enjoyable walk. Distance: 2 miles (EASY) Meeting point: Salford Museum and Art Gallery, The Crescent, Salford. End point: People s History Museum, Bridge Street, Manchester. WALK 23 Walk overview: A circular walk through Worsley Woods and along the loopline, a large area of countryside featuring brooks and the Old Warke Dam. Distance: 2-3 miles (FAIRLY EASY) Meeting point: Worsley Court House (at the roundabout). Public transport: Bus stop nearby. WALK 28 Group name Manchester and Salford Ramblers Contact Maggie Smith, 07879 465 047, email maggie.smith400@btinternet.com or visit www.thesalfordtrail.btck.co.uk I'm an enthusiastic walker and love leading walks into areas within Manchester and Salford as so many people don t know what beautiful and interesting walks are on their doorsteps. The Ramblers try and cater to all walking abilities. Our walks are short and fairly easy to encourage people who may not be used to walking. We are welcoming and know our stuff! Clifton Country Park Saturday 17 September, 2pm Walk overview: A circular walk along the River Irwell through woodland and across open space to Clifton Country Park. Distance: 2-3 miles (FAIRLY EASY) Meeting point: St. Anne s Church, Manchester Road, Clifton. Monton Green Sunday 18 September, 11am Walk overview: A circular walk along the loopline from Dukes Drive in Monton, an area of open grass and woodland between the Bridgewater Canal and the disused railway. Distance: 2 miles (EASY) Meeting point: Dukes Drive, parking area. WALK 31 WALK 27 28 29
Salford trail Salford trail Kersal Moor Sunday 18 September, 11am Kersal Dale to Bury New Road Media City Saturday 22 October, 11am Walkden Loopline Saturday 22 October, 11am Walk overview: A scenic walk over Kersal Moor, an area of open moorland with stunning views. The walk then goes down to Kersal Dale where walkers can stop at Littleton Road, or take the circular route to Bury New Road. Distance: 3 miles plus optional extra for circular route (FAIRLY EASY) Lunch: Bring own packed lunch if on circular route (1 hour break between walks). Meeting point: Bus stop on Bury New Road, Corner of Radford Street, M7 4NT. End Point: Littleton Road by Northallerton Road (if not on circular route). Sunday 18 September, 2pm Walk overview: Walk along the River Irwell across Kersal Dale (which flooded in December 2015 and has recovered well) and up through a scenic, wooded area to Bury New Road. Distance: 2 miles (FAIRLY EASY) Meeting point: St. Aidans Church, Littleton Road, Lower Kersal, Salford, M7 3SE. End point: Bury New Road. Walk overview: A fascinating walk around Media City, over the two main bridges of the Ship Canal and the Lowry Theatre. Distance: 2 miles (EASY) Meeting point: Media City Metrolink. Public transport: Media City Metrolink and bus stop nearby. WALK 26 Walk overview: A walk along disused railway lines, finishing at the Tyldesley Loopline. Distance: 2 miles (FAIRLY EASY) Meeting point: Walkden Station. End point: Ellenbrook busway. Public transport: Bus stops near start and end points. WALK 29 Public transport: Bus stops near start and end points. WALK 33 WALK 32 30 31
Salford trail Salford trail Peel Park and the Meadows Saturday 22 October, 2pm Walk overview: On this circular walk you can explore Peel Park and the Meadows, a beautiful area of open space almost entirely surrounded by the River Irwell. Distance: 2 miles (EASY) Meeting point: Salford Museum and Art Gallery, Crescent, Salford. Blackleach Country Park Sunday 23 October, 11am Walk overview: A beautiful route through local nature reserve Blackleach Country Park. Distance: 2-3 miles (FAIRLY EASY) Meeting point: Blackleach Country Park Visitor Centre, Bolton Rd, Hilltop, Walkden. WALK 24 WALK 30 Salford Quays Sunday 23 October, 2pm Walk overview: A relaxed walk from Salford Quays to Manchester City Centre along the Ship Canal. Distance: 2 miles (EASY) Meeting point: Salford Quays Metrolink. End point: Manchester City Centre. Public transport: Metrolink and bus stops near start and end points. WALK 25 32 33
Trafford Trail TRAFFORD 'HERITAGE TREES TRAIL' Manchester CityofTrees Sale Water Park and Priory Gardens Friday 16 September, 10:30am Longford Park to Sale Water Park Saturday 17 September, 10:30am About the walks Trafford is home to 30 municipal parks and a diverse range of historic open spaces and visitor attractions. The borough s parks and green spaces have a rich history and were at the forefront of the Victorian parks movement, which established the pattern of public green space we know today. 'City of Trees' helps people to explore local areas they may not have visited before. Our walks are part of a series of walking guides which outline over 35 miles of recreational routes, taking in local gems such as Sale Water Park, Walkden Gardens, Carrington Moss, Turn Moss and more. Group name City of Trees Contact Janie Burrage, 0161 872 1660 email Janie@cityoftrees.org.uk or visit www.cityoftrees.org.uk/walking-trafford Meet one of our walk leaders Name: Janie Burrage I'm passionate about green space and helping people explore the trees, woodlands and wildlife on their doorstep. For me, becoming a walk leader was a logical step in promoting health and wellbeing. I truly believe that fresh air and a gentle stroll can make all the difference to how we perceive and connect with the world around us. Booking is essential for all Trafford walks. Please contact Janie Burrage. Walk overview: This circular route takes in the wildlife and history of Sale Water Park and Priory Gardens. It includes Trafford s first local nature reserve and a spectacular mature beech avenue. Distance: 2-3 miles (FAIRLY EASY) Meeting point: Mersey Valley Visitor Centre, Rifle Road, Sale Water Park, M33 2LX. Public transport: Sale Water Park Metrolink. WALK 35 Walk overview: This linear route takes in a rich variety of landscapes from historic hedgerows to the River Mersey and flood meadows of Sale Ees. Enjoy the heritage trees of Longford Park and stroll through Turn Moss playing fields to join the Trans Pennine Trail. The route passes Stretford Ees and follows the River Mersey, before passing through Barrow Brook towards the volunteer centre at Sale Water Park. Distance: 3 miles (MEDIUM) Meeting point: Caffeine & Co, Longford Park, Stretford, M32 8DA. End point: Sale Water Park. Public transport: Stretford Metrolink (start) and Sale Water Park Metrolink (end). WALK 34 34 35
Trafford Trail Trafford Trail Urmston Meadows and Old Ees Brook Sunday 18 September, 10:30am Walk overview: This walk takes in a secluded area of the Mersey Valley. Explore the autumnal beauty of the flood meadow and enjoy panoramic views of the River Mersey. Distance: 2-3 miles (FAIRLY EASY) Meeting point: Riverside Drive, M41 9FW. Public transport: Bus stop nearby. The Parks of Sale Friday 21 October, 10:30am Walk overview: A circular route that leads walkers through some of the finest parks in Sale, including Worthington Park where you will discover The Wizard of Worthington Park', and Walkden Gardens, Sale s very own secret garden. Distance: 4-5 miles (MEDIUM) Meeting point: Brooklands Metrolink Station, M33 3SQ. Public transport: Brooklands/ Dane Road Metrolink. Trans Pennine Trail Trek Saturday 22 October, 10:30am Walk overview: A journey from Sale Water Park to Urmston and back, following the northern bank of the River Mersey before joining the Trans Pennine Trail to Stretford Meadows. Distance: 7-8 miles (CHALLENGING) Meeting point: Mersey Valley Visitor Centre, Sale Water Park, Rifle Road, M33 2LX. Public transport: Sale Water Park Metrolink. Wellacre Country Park and Jack Lane Nature Reserve Sunday 23 October, 10:30am Walk overview: This circular route takes walkers around Wellacre Country Park and offers panoramic views of the Mersey Valley. Explore the parameter of Jack Lane Nature Reserve and discover Flixton s historic railway line before heading back towards Dutton s bond. In autumn, the hedgerows burst alive with colour, offering a bounty of edible fruits for birds and other wildlife. Distance: 2-3 miles (MEDIUM) WALK 38 Meeting point: Entrance to Wellacre County Park, Ambleside Road, M41 6PH. WALK 37 WALK 36 Public transport: Flixton Railway Station. WALK 39 36 37
It was heart-warming as a walk leader to welcome walkers from other areas who seemed to enjoy the activity. Jean Walk Leader, Dunwood Park Nordic Walkers, Greater Manchester Walking Festival 2016 38 39
The walk was well researched, organised and led. The scenery was varied with some local historical heritage sites and places of special interest Richard ' Both Sides of the Valley walk with Rochdale Ramblers, Greater Manchester Walking Festival 2016 Nice people, nice walk, nice weather. What more can you ask for?! Noreen ' Fair Daisy Nook walk with Tameside Ramblers, Greater Manchester Walking Festival 2016 Explore Greater Manchester on foot this autumn by taking part in Transport for Greater Manchester s Walking Weekends. Following the success of our annual Walking Festival and in partnership with some fantastic walking groups, we ve organised a series of free, guided walks over selected weekends throughout the year. The first lot are taking place this September and October and you ll find all you need to know in this handy brochure, including where the walks take place, at what time and how long they re expected to last. We ll be organising more walks that cover even more of Greater Manchester next spring, so keep an eye on our Facebook page and website to stay up to date with the latest news. The walks are all easy to get to via public transport within the Greater Manchester area and offer a great opportunity to meet new people, get active and have fun. Enjoy, and we hope to see you there! For more details visit: www.tfgm.com/walking /GMwalkingfestival