Today’s Walks
Moderate Leader: Jackie Gudgeon Distance: 9 miles
From Uppermill we follow the Huddersfield Narrows Canal for about a mile to reach the Brownhills Visitor Centre where there are toilets. We then climb by lane, track and moorland to reach the Pots & Pans War Memorial, giving us panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. We then drop down a track to reach and cross the A635 Saddleworth Road and Yeoman Hey Reservoir. We circle the reservoir, passing Dovestone Reservoir, before venturing into the Chew Valley, returning along the Oldham Way to the southern end of Uppermill from where we can return to the coach either along the canal or the Tame Valley Way which follows an attractive stretch of disused railway line.
Quite a rugged walk in places, with no doubt some boggy stretches.
Leisurely Leader: Derek Lee Distance: 7 Miles
We leave Uppermill northwards on the old railway line – now the Pennine Bridleway – then along the canal to Diggle where the canal enters the Standedge Tunnel. We continue on tracks and footpaths to Dean Head, climbing gently all the way, apart from a short steeper climb on the final stage. From here we turn west and return along Harrop Edge with views of both sides from the hill top ridge, before dropping steeply back down to the canal for the final mile home.
Easy Leader: Philomena Walker Distance: About 5 miles
The Easy walkers will pick up the canal by the museum. We will follow the canal to Diggle – on the way we can play a few games! On reaching Diggle there is a comfort stop at the hotel, and we will then come back across the moors and meet up with the canal once again. We go back into Uppermill via the stepping stones (optional) for those brave enough to try!