Manchester Weekend Walkers lead public transport walks into fantastic countryside all year round.
A challenging walk that takes in the very best views in the western Peak District.
This walk comprises three separate loops, all of which start and end in Hayfield. The first is an ascent of Lantern Pike, the second is a high-level circuit of Kinder Reservoir and the third explores the moors and hills to the south of the village.
The combination of distance, amount of ascent and terrain makes this a strenuous walk and anyone attempting the full walk will need a high level of fitness.
It is possible to leave the walk after one or two of the loops, as the first section ends back at the start and the second section ends one mile from the walk start, from where there is an easily navigable path along the river to the village. All three sections, however, involve a good amount of ascent, so leaving the walk early should not be seen as an easy option, and you will need a good level of fitness to do any part of this walk. A reasonable pace is also required as sunset on this day is around 19:00.
The first two loops both involve a narrow, rocky descent and walking boots/shoes are essential for this walk. Some parts may be boggy, especially on the third loop. There are narrow sections with lots of brambles and nettles, so you may not wish to wear shorts on this walk.
No dogs please, other than registered assistance dogs, due to the livestock we may encounter.
Train/bus-based walk
Leader: Martin, joining bus at Offerton Green
Ascent: 900 metres
Transport to Walk Start: 09:18 train from Manchester Piccadilly station (final destination New Mills Central). At New Mills, walk up the road to the bus station and board the 358 to Hayfield at 10:18. Alternatively, board the 358 at its start point at Mersey Square in Stockport at 09:35.
Meet Point: Near the ticket barriers at Piccadilly Station, or at stop G in Mersey Square in Stockport (slightly up the hill from the main square). Alternatively, meet the group at any stage of the public transport journey, or at the walk start.
Suggested Ticket: Off Peak Return from Manchester to New Mills Central £9 (if catching the train). Also £2 for each bus journey.
Walk Start: Hayfield Bus Station at 10:30
Waypoints:
(First Loop): Sett Valley Trail, Lantern Pike, Pennine Bridleway, Little Hayfield.
(Second Loop): Kinder Road, Snake Path, Shooting Cabin, foot of William Clough, Blackshaws, Farlands, Bowden Bridge.
(Third Loop): Pennine Bridleway, Peep O'Day Farm, Phoside Farm.
Return Services: From Hayfield: Bus 358 at x:40 until 17:40, then x:10 from 19:10 to 23:10. These connect with trains to Manchester at New Mills or Stockport. Alternatively, make your own way to New Mills Central via the easy walk along the Sett Valley Trail (3 miles). Departures from New Mills Central are between x:01 and x:03 until 22:01 and at x:34/35 until 21:34, then at 22:26, 23:11 & 23:36. Frequent trains from Stockport to Manchester.
Extra: Toilets at walk start, then at the end of the first and second loops. Optional drinks in Hayfield at the end of the walk.
