1 May – 31 May 2016 Over 200 free, guided walks in and around Manchester and districts Welcome Welcome to the 2016 Greater Manchester Walking Festival! With over 200 walks taking place throughout May, this year’s festival is all set to be even bigger and better than last.

If you took part in the Walking Festival last year we hope you enjoyed it – perhaps you even joined a local group, and are considering participating this year. Whether you’re a seasoned walker or a relative newbie, within this guide you’ll find an exciting programme of walks, appealing to all ages, abilities and interests and covering the ten districts of Greater Manchester – Bolton, Bury, Manchester, Oldham, Rochdale, Salford, Stockport, Tameside, Trafford and Wigan. Each of the walks are led by experts and, with the exception of one or two specialist walks, are completely free, although some groups may ask for a membership fee if you want to walk with the group on a regular basis after you have given it a try. Remember to check out the many public transport options available by bus, tram or train – this is a great opportunity to explore areas further afield than your own doorstep.

Transport for Greater Manchester coordinates the Walking Festival but it doesn’t deliver the walks itself – that’s all down to our enthusiastic walking partners, whether that’s local branches of the Ramblers, Walking for Health groups, community groups or walking groups linked to charitable organisations. We’d like to say a huge thank you to all our partners as obviously we couldn’t run this festival without you.

With walking being increasingly seen as one of the most effective exercises for improving your health, apart from being a great way to meet new people and explore new places, now’s the time to put your best foot forward and see what walking can offer you!

Find out more information: 0161 244 1145 [email protected] www.tfgm.com/walking www.facebook.com/GMwalkingfestival #GMwalkfest

Image courtesy of Jim Barrott www.jimbarrottphotography.co.uk 3 Safety and Guidance What to wear and bring Things to note For all walks please wear comfortable Many of the walks in this brochure are and sturdy shoes or boots. We cannot accessible to people with limited mobility. guarantee the weather so bring a water- However, it is recommended that you proof coat or jacket just in case it rains. check with the walk organiser prior to a walk if you have any specific requirements If it’s sunny bring a sun hat and sun including wheelchair access, or if you are cream, especially for those longer walks. unable to step over stiles. It’s also a good idea to bring some water with you as not all of the walks offer Please arrive 10 minutes before a walk opportunities for refreshments. begins so that you can locate the group and be ready to start the walk at the right time. PLEDGE TO Health and safety All walks are undertaken at your own Walks may also be cancelled or modified risk. Walk leaders take every care to due to adverse weather conditions, so ensure that the walk is undertaken in please ring the contact telephone listed to make sure the walk is taking place. #TRY20 a safe manner. Transport for Greater Manchester and walk leaders are not Please check the meeting location in responsible for any accidents or injuries advance with the organiser. that might occur.

Walking is the easiest and cheapest way to improve your health. Walk 20 minutes a day this May during National Feedback and contact Walking Month and we’ll add you into a draw to win a £50 shopping voucher. Let us know what you think – we are keen to hear your feedback on this year’s festival. Please send your comments to us at: Take the pledge at [email protected] www.livingstreets.org.uk/nwm

4 What’s on

Walk name Walking group Page

Sunday 1 May 2016 meet our girls... Breightmet walk Bolton Walk This Way 18 Monday 2 May 2016 Summerseat District Community Bury Sport and Physical Activity Service 20 Health walk – Bury ‘Walk with Me’ Tuesday 3 May 2016 Macmillan Cancer support Bury Sport & Physical Activity Service 20 community health walk – Bury ‘Walk with Me’

30-minute miracle Lunchtime Strollers, University of Manchester 22

A stroll around Hollingworth Lake Link4Life 33 tabsum sonia & georgia Cutgate, Bamford and Norden Living Well Rochdale 33 Littleborough library Living Well Rochdale 33

Health walk on Salford Quays Salford Community Leisure 38

Walkaday – Bramall Hall – Cheadle Stockport Metropolitan Council 43

Walk and talk – Anthony Seddon Active Tameside 47

Walk and talk – Denton Pool Active Tameside 47

Walk and talk – Oxford Park Active Tameside 47

Bridgewater medical centre walk Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles 56 charlotte kylie ann Wednesday 4 May 2016 Castleton Living Well Rochdale 33

Hollingworth Lake Living Well Rochdale 35 we know women and girls face barriers which stop them being Wednesday walk Salford Ranger Team 38 active. six local women have shared their story with i will if Ashton health walk – Park Bridge Tameside Health Walks 47 Fair Daisy Nook – Ashton to you will to show how they overcame theirs. Tameside Ramblers 48 Woodhouses via Daisy Nook circular

Meadow bat walk Red Rose Forest 53 join in @ i_will_if Thursday 5 May 2016

For the love of Chorlton Beginners’ Walking Group 22

6 7 What’s on (continued)

Walk name Walking group Page Walk name Walking group Page

Green health walk – Clayton Manchester Community Giants 22 Bottoms up to the Hague – Broadbottom and Hurst Clough Tameside Ramblers 48 Green health walk – West Didsbury Manchester Community Giants 23 circular Thursday tread Lunchtime Strollers, University of Manchester 23 Sale Water park nordic walk Ramblers Trafford Group 54

Walk and talk Heaton Park Red Rose Forest 23 Spring forage Red Rose Forest 54

Blackleach Country parks Salford Ranger Team 38 Sunday 8 May 2016 health walks Breightmet walk Bolton Walk This Way 18 Walkaday – High Lane Stockport Metropolitan Council 43 Historic hunting ground – Dunwood Park Nordic Walkers 29 Walk and Talk – Dukinfield library Active Tameside 47 Crompton Moor

Pennington Flash country park Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles 57 Parks of Sale Red Rose Forest 55

Three Sisters Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles 57 Monday 9 May 2016

Pennington Flash country park Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles 57 Summerseat District Community Bury Sport and Physical Activity Service 20 Health walk – Bury ‘Walk with Me’ Friday 6 May 2016 Talk a walk on the wild side The friends of Blackley Forest 24 Macmillan short walk Macmillan Cancer Information and Support 18 Hollin, Boarshaw and Living Well Rochdale 36 Foot it Fridays Lunchtime Strollers, University of Manchester 23 Hopwood woods Up the Ashton Canal and down Blackleach Country parks Lunchtime Strollers, University of Manchester 24 Salford Ranger Team 40 the Rochdale Canal toddler walks

Alkrington wood Living Well Rochdale 35 Woodbank/Vernon park walk Walk Stockport (Walking for Health) 43

Mindfulness walk introduction Red Rose Forest/Rochdale Rangers 35 Hyde health walk Tameside Health Walks 49

Bridgewater bat walk Est. 1761 – The Bridgewater Canal 39 Walk and Talk – Sunnybank Vale Active Tameside 49

Tiny Tots ramble Salford Ranger Team 40 Tuesday 10 May 2016

Sale Water park nordic walk Trafford Leisure 53 Macmillan Cancer support Bury Sport & Physical Activity Service 20 community health walk – Bury ‘Walk with Me’ Saturday 7 May 2016 30-minute miracle Lunchtime Strollers, University of Manchester 22 Prestwich District community Bury Sport & Physical Activity Service 21 health walk – Bury ‘Walk with Me’ Kill or cure Manchester Guided Tours 26

Navigation walk: Learn to use Alexandra Park walk Active Oldham Outdoors 29 Map & Compass: Walk your own way 24 a map and compass Cutgate, Bamford and Norden Living Well Rochdale 33 Both sides of the valley Rochdale Ramblers 35 Littleborough library Living Well Rochdale 33 Leisurely Saturday walk in Rochdale Ramblers 36 Littleborough Littleborough area Manchester and Salford Ramblers 36

8 9 What’s on (continued)

Walk name Walking group Page Walk name Walking group Page

Walkaday – Northumberland Road Three Sisters Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles 57 Stockport Metropolitan Council 43 – Romiley Pennington Flash country park Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles 57 Walk and talk – Anthony Seddon Active Tameside 47 Friday 13 May 2016 Walk and talk – Denton Pool Active Tameside 47 Foot it Fridays Lunchtime Strollers, University of Manchester 23 Walk and talk – Oxford Park Active Tameside 47 Waterhead park walk Active Oldham Outdoors 30 Bumblebee walk Red Rose Forest 55 Bridgewater bat walk Est. 1761 – The Bridgewater Canal 39 Bridgewater medical centre walk Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles 56 Tiny Tots ramble Salford Ranger Team 40 Wednesday 11 May 2016 Sale Water park nordic walk Trafford Leisure 53 Wonder-ful Wednesday Lunchtime Strollers, University of Manchester 26 Saturday 14 May 2016 Tandle Hill park Active Oldham Outdoors 29 Prestwich District community Bury Sport & Physical Activity Service 21 Castleton Living Well Rochdale 33 health walk – Bury ‘Walk with Me’

Hollingworth Lake Living Well Rochdale 35 Tree Goblin Hunt Red Rose Forest 40

Wednesday walk Salford Ranger Team 38 Bridgewater Discovery walk Est. 1761 – The Bridgewater Canal 41

Walkaday – Woodley Shopping Spring into Medlock Valley Tameside Ramblers 49 Stockport Metropolitan Council 44 centre Stamford health walk Tameside Health Walks 50 Whats it all about Alphin? – Alphin Tameside Ramblers 49 Pike from Carrbrook Sunday 15 May 2016

Pennington Flash country park Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles 57 Breightmet walk Bolton Walk This Way 18

Thursday 12 May 2016 Photograph workshop Link4Life 36

For the love of Chorlton Beginners’ Walking Group 22 Moses Gate spring walk Blackleach Country Park 41

Walk and talk – Heaton Park Red Rose Forest 23 Monday 16 May 2016

Green health walk Manchester Community Giants (Wythenshawe) 26 Summerseat District Community Bury Sport and Physical Activity Service 20 Health walk – Bury ‘Walk with Me’ Werneth Park walk Active Oldham Outdoors 29 Hollin, Boarshaw and Living Well Rochdale 36 Alkrington wood Living Well Rochdale 35 Hopwood woods Blackleach Country parks Blackleach Country parks Salford Ranger Team 38 Salford Ranger Team 40 health walks toddler walks

Walkaday – Northumberland Road Salford Trail – Route 8 Manchester and Salford Ramblers 41 Stockport Metropolitan Council 44 – Romiley Woodbank/Vernon park walk Walk Stockport (Walking for Health) 43 Walk and Talk – Dukinfield library Active Tameside 48

10 11 What’s on (continued)

Walk name Walking group Page Walk name Walking group Page

Navigation Walk: Learn to use a map Map & Compass: Walk your own way 44 Thursday 19 May 2016 and compass For the love of Chorlton Beginners’ Walking Group 22 Hyde health walk Tameside Health Walks 49 Thursday tread Lunchtime Strollers, University of Manchester 23 Walk and Talk – Sunnybank Vale Active Tameside 49 Walk and talk Heaton Park Red Rose Forest 23 Tuesday 17 May 2016 Walkabout the city? Macmillan Cancer support Bury Sport & Physical Activity Service Ecology in Practice, Manchester Metropolitan University 27 20 Meandering the Medlock community health walk – Bury ‘Walk with Me’ Alkrington wood Living Well Rochdale 35 30-minute miracle Lunchtime Strollers, University of Manchester 22 Blackleach Country parks Salford Ranger Team 38 Manchester music walk Manchester Guided Tours 27 health walks

Goldwick Lows – Green health walk Manchester Community Giants 45 Lees Health Walks 30 Once part of the equator Walkaday – Chelford Grove Stockport Metropolitan Council 45 Cutgate, Bamford and Norden Living Well Rochdale 33 Walkaday – Shiloh Road, Mellor – Stockport Metropolitan Council 45 Littleborough library Living Well Rochdale 33 Strines

Bridgewater discovery walk Est. 1761 – The Bridgewater Canal 41 Walk and Talk – Dukinfield library Active Tameside 48

Walkaday – Compstall Stockport Metropolitan Council 44 The Waterway bat Walk Red Rose Forest 55

Walk and talk – Anthony Seddon Active Tameside 47 Three Sisters Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles 57

Walk and talk – Denton Pool Active Tameside 47 Pennington Flash country park Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles 57

Walk and talk – Oxford Park Active Tameside 47 Friday 20 May 2016

Bridgewater medical centre walk Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles 56 Foot it Fridays Lunchtime Strollers, University of Manchester 23

Wednesday 18 May 2016 Tiny Tots ramble Salford Ranger Team 40

Nordic walking Bury Sport & Physical Activity Service – Bury ‘Walk with Me’ 21 Sale Water park nordic walk Trafford Leisure 53

Wonder-ful Wednesday Lunchtime Strollers, University of Manchester 26 Howe Bridge history and area walk Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles 57

Castleton Living Well Rochdale 33 Saturday 21 May 2016

Hollingworth Lake Living Well Rochdale 35 Prestwich District community Bury Sport & Physical Activity Service 21 health walk – Bury ‘Walk with Me’ Wednesday walk Salford Ranger Team 38 Mountain Trike ramble Experience Community CIC 30 The highs and lows of Tameside Tameside Ramblers 50 Saddleworth edges Oldham Community Leisure 30 Mossley health walk Tameside Health Walks 50 Lakeside to hillside navigation Link4Life 37 Pennington Flash country park Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles 57 introduction

12 13 What’s on (continued)

Walk name Walking group Page Walk name Walking group Page

Stamford health walk Tameside Health Walks 50 Walk and talk – Denton Pool Active Tameside 47

Bridges over Double Waters – Peak Walk and talk – Oxford Park Active Tameside 47 Tameside Ramblers 51 Forest Canal and River Tame Bridgewater medical centre walk Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles 56 Droylsden health walk Tameside Health Walks 51 Wednesday 25 May 2016 Sunday 22 May 2016 Castleton Living Well Rochdale 33 Breightmet walk Bolton Walk This Way 18 Hollingworth Lake Living Well Rochdale 35 Monday 23 May 2016 Wednesday walk Salford Ranger Team 38 Summerseat District Community Bury Sport and Physical Activity Service 22 Health walk – Bury ‘Walk with Me’ Mossley health walk Tameside Health Walks 50

Monday meander Lunchtime Strollers, University of Manchester 28 The wild side of Tameside: wild bank Tameside Ramblers 52 and Hollingworth Hall Moor Hollin, Boarshaw and Living Well Rochdale 36 Hopwood woods Pennington Flash country park Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles 57 Blackleach Country parks Salford Ranger Team 40 Thursday 26 May 2016 toddler walks For the love of Chorlton Beginners’ Walking Group 22 Woodbank/Vernon park walk Walk Stockport (Walking for Health) 43 Thursday tread Lunchtime Strollers, University of Manchester 23 Hyde health walk Tameside Health Walks 49 Walk and talk Heaton Park Red Rose Forest 23 Walk and Talk – Sunnybank Vale Active Tameside 49 Alkrington wood Living Well Rochdale 35 Stalybridge health walk Tameside Health Walks 51 Blackleach Country parks Salford Ranger Team 38 Tuesday 24 May 2016 health walks Macmillan Cancer support Bury Sport & Physical Activity Service Walkaday – St Johns Road, 20 Stockport Metropolitan Council 45 community health walk – Bury ‘Walk with Me’ Heaton Mersey

30-minute miracle Lunchtime Strollers, University of Manchester 22 Walk and Talk Dukinfield library Active Tameside 48

Stonebreaks – A favourite walk Lees Health Walks 32 Three Sisters Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles 57

Cutgate, Bamford and Norden Living Well Rochdale 33 Pennington Flash country park Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles 57

Littleborough library Living Well Rochdale 33 Friday 27 May 2016

Evening walk in Pendlebury area Manchester and Salford Ramblers 42 Foot it Fridays Lunchtime Strollers, University of Manchester 23

Walkaday – Reddish Bridge, Tiny Tots ramble Salford Ranger Team 40 McDonald’s – the Donkey Stockport Metropolitan Council 45 Sanctuary, Gorton Sale Water park nordic walk Trafford Leisure 53

14 15 What’s on (continued) Walking key Walk name Walking group Page

Saturday 28 May 2016 Buggy accessible Payment required Prestwich District community Bury Sport & Physical Activity Service 21 health walk – Bury ‘Walk with Me’ Tandle Hill two parks family walk Oldham Ramblers 32 Cafe on site Picnic area

Kinder Downfall and Kinder Low Manchester and Salford Ramblers 46

Stamford health walk Tameside Health Walks 50 Car parking available Playground

Droylsden health walk Tameside Health Walks 51

The Stalybridge murder walk Tameside Ramblers 52 Cycle parking available Toliet facilities Sunday 29 May 2016

Breightmet walk Bolton Walk This Way 18 Dogs permitted Wheelchair accessible Tree ID and food foraging Red Rose Forest 28

Navigation walk Map & Compass: Walk your own way 37 Families with children Nordic walking Ramsbottom war weekend Rochdale Ramblers 37

Clifton Country park heritage walk Salford Ranger Team 42 Information centre Walking for health Monday 30 May 2016 Summerseat District Community Bury Sport and Physical Activity Service 20 Health walk – Bury ‘Walk with Me’ Tuesday 31 May 2016 Macmillan Cancer support Bury Sport & Physical Activity Service 20 community health walk – Bury ‘Walk with Me’ Walking grading

Cutgate, Bamford and Norden Living Well Rochdale 33 Easy On well maintained flat surfaces Littleborough library Living Well Rochdale 33 fairly Easy On slight gradients and possibly some uneven paths Walk and talk – Anthony Seddon Active Tameside 47 medium On uneven or unsurfaced paths with some steep gradients and Walk and talk – Denton Pool Active Tameside 47 possible steps or stiles

Walk and talk – Oxford Park Active Tameside 47 challenging Suitable for experienced walkers, longer distance with mixed terrain and gradients Walk and Talk – Dukinfield library Active Tameside 48

Tree treasure trail Red Rose Forest 55

Bridgewater medical centre walk Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles 56

16 17 Bolton Breightmet walk Bolton Council – Bolton Walk This Way Macmillan short walk Sunday 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 May Macmillan Cancer Information Start of walk: 10.30am and Support This walk explores Leverhulme Park and Friday 6 May. Start of walk: 1pm surrounding areas including Star Mount and Moses Gate Country Park. This 30 minute walk offers a support network for anyone who has been affected by cancer, Distance: 3 miles (Fairly easy) either being treated or recovering, including Meeting point: Inside Leverhulme Park carers, family and friends. Community Leisure Centre, Long Lane, Distance: 1.25 miles (easy) Breightmet, BL2 6EB. Meeting point: Main reception Bolton Arena, Public transport: Bolton or Hall I’ Th’ Wood Arena Approach, Horwich, BL6 6LB. train station; bus stop nearby. Public transport: Horwich Parkway; Contact: Melissa Taylor 01204 488202 or bus stop nearby. email: [email protected] Contact: Jodie Ormesher 01204 663059 or email: [email protected]

18 19 Macmillan short walk – 6 May e Bury Summerseat district Macmillan Cancer support Prestwich district Nordic walking community health walk community health walk community health walk Bury Sport & Physical Activity Bury Sport & Physical Activity Bury Sport & Physical Activity Bury Sport & Physical Activity Service – Bury ‘Walk with me’ Service – Bury ‘Walk with me’ Service – Bury ‘Walk with me’ Service – Bury ‘Walk with me’ Wednesday 18 May Monday 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 May Tuesday 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 May Saturday 7, 14, 21 and 28 May Start of walk: 12 noon Start of walk: 11am Start of walk: 11am Start of walk: 10.30am This will be a Nordic Walking taster session which will go around the park, giving you an Several pleasant country walking routes This gentle parkland walk is aimed at beginner This woodland, water and lakeside circular opportunity to find out what Nordic walking which involve climbing out of the valley using level. The park offers a variety of walking routes, walk usually includes walking through areas is about. Booking required, please use the footpaths. During particular bad weather, walks through woodland and by water with some of Prestwich Clough, Drinkwater Park and contact details below to book a place. will stay close to the village along quiet country gentle climbs and descents. Waterdale Park, although the route may vary roads. depending on conditions. Distance: 2 miles (Medium) Distance: 2–3 miles (Fairly easy) Distance: 2–3 miles (Medium) Distance: 3 miles (Medium) Meeting point: Nuttall Park by the Rangers’ Meeting point: Heaton Park Metrolink entrance. hut/car park. Meeting point: Summerseat Garden Centre car Meeting point: St Mary’s Church, Church Lane, Public transport: Heaton Park Metrolink stop; park, Railway Street, BL9 5QD. Prestwich M25 1AN. Public transport: Ramsbottom train station; bus stop nearby. bus stop nearby. Public transport: Bury Metrolink stop; bus stop Public transport: Prestwich Metrolink stop; Contact: Maria Cranston 0161 253 6396 or nearby. bus stop nearby. Contact: Hamish Willis 07967 318501 or email: email: [email protected] [email protected] Contact: Maria Cranston 0161 253 6396 or Contact: Maria Cranston 0161 253 6396 or email: [email protected] email: [email protected]

20 21 Bury ‘Walk with Me’ Group Bury ‘Walk with Me’ Group Manchester 30-minute miracle For the love of Chorlton Green health walk Walk and talk – Heaton Park Lunchtime Strollers, Beginners’ Walking Group Manchester Community Giants Red Rose Forest University of Manchester Thursday 5, 12, 19 and 26 May Thursday 5 May. Start of walk: 10.30am Thursday 5, 12, 19 and 26 May Tuesday 3, 10, 17 and 24 May Start of walk: 9.50am Friendly walk welcoming all abilities. Start of walk: 10.30am Start of walk: 12.15pm A gentle stroll from Chorlton library every Booking required. Come along to our weekly walking group at This medium/brisk walk will be invigorating Thursday morning, lasting for no more than an Distance: 2.5 miles (Fairly easy) Heaton Park, for people living with dementia, and is designed to set you up for a productive hour (usually about 45 minutes) in whatever and carers. Join us for a cup of tea too. Meeting point: Clayton Vale main entrance . afternoon: a good step to reaching your direction we fancy. Come as little or often as Booking required. you like. This is an informal group of friends, recommended 150 minutes of activity a week. Public transport: Clayton Metrolink stop, bus Distance: 1.5 miles (easy) neighbours and local residents. stop nearby. Distance: 1.5 miles (Fairly easy) Booking required. Meeting point: Heaton Park, Sheepfoot Lane Contact: Ambokile Bell 07745 259419 or Meeting point: Entrance to Zochonis Building, entrance, M25 0DL. Distance: 2 miles (easy) email: [email protected] Manchester University. Public transport: Heaton Park Metrolink Stop; Meeting point: Chorlton library, bus stop nearby. Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Manchester Road, Chorlton, M21. Contact: Jane 0161 342 0797 or Contact: Betty-Ann Bristow-Castle Public transport: Chorlton Metrolink stop, email: [email protected] 0161 275 0464 or email: bus stop nearby. Thursday tread [email protected] Contact: Mary R Crumpton 07751 696055 or Lunchtime Strollers, email: [email protected] University of Manchester Thursday 5, 19 and 26 May Foot it Fridays Start of walk: 12.15pm Lunchtime Strollers, Green health walk This medium/brisk walk will be invigorating University of Manchester and is designed to set you up for a productive Manchester Community Giants Friday 6, 13, 20 and 27 May afternoon: a good step to reaching your Start of walk: 12noon Thursday 5 May recommended 150 minutes of activity a week. Start of walk: 10.30am Distance: 2 miles (Fairly easy) This medium/brisk walk will be invigorating and is designed to set you up for a productive Friendly walk welcoming all abilities. Meeting point: John Owens Quad, Bench by afternoon: a good step to reaching your Booking required. the arch, Manchester University. recommended 150 minutes of activity a week. Distance: 2.5 miles (Fairly easy) Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Distance: 2 miles (Fairly easy) Meeting point: The Northern, Palatine Road, Contact: Betty-Ann Bristow-Castle Meeting point: John Owens Quad, Bench by West Didsbury, Manchester, M20 3YA. 0161 275 0464 or email: the arch, Manchester University. [email protected] Public transport: West Didsbury Metrolink Public transport: Bus stop nearby. stop, bus stop nearby. Contact: Betty-Ann Bristow-Castle Contact: Ambokile Bell 07745 259419 or 0161 275 0464 or email: email: [email protected] [email protected]

22 23 Manchester (continued) Up the Ashton Canal and Navigation walk: Learn to use down the Rochdale Canal a map and compass Lunchtime Strollers, Map & Compass: Walk your own way University of Manchester Saturday 7 May. Start of walk: 10am Friday 6 May. Start of walk: 12.30pm A short walk on clear footpaths introducing you This medium/brisk walk will be invigorating to how to use a map and compass to navigate and is designed to set you up for a productive yourself around the countryside. As well as afternoon: a good step to reaching your walking we will be standing for some time so recommended 150 minutes of activity a week. wear appropriate clothing. Maps and compasses provided. Booking required. Distance: 2 miles (Fairly easy) Distance: 1.5 miles (easy) Meeting point: Vimto Statue, Granby Row,, Manchester University. Meeting point: Chorlton Ees car park, Brookburn Road, M21 9ES. Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Public transport: Chorlton Metrolink stop; Contact: Betty-Ann Bristow-Castle bus stop nearby. 0161 275 0464 or email: [email protected] Contact: Cath Dyson 07411 165058 or email: [email protected]

Talk a walk on the wild side The friends of Blackley Forest Monday 9 May. Start of walk: 2pm A leisurely walk through Blackley Forest looking at the flora and fauna Distance: 2–3 miles (medium) Meeting point: Victoria entrance of Blackley Forest. Public transport: Bowker Vale Metrolink stop; bus stop nearby. Contact: Dot Keller 0161 795 0900 or email: [email protected]

24 25 Up the Ashton Canal – 6 May Manchester (continued) Kill or cure Green health walk Manchester music walk Walkabout the city? Manchester Guided Tours Manchester Community Giants Manchester Guided Tours Meandering the Medlock Tuesday 10 May. Start of walk: 2pm Thursday 12 May. Thursday 17 May. Start of walk: 11am Ecology in Practice, Manchester The medic with a mummy, maternity home in a Start of walk 10.30am ‘Manchester kids have the best record Metropolitan University pub, the doctor who penned a thesaurus… Friendly walk welcoming all abilities. collections’, so said Tony Wilson. On the fiftieth Thursday 19 May. Start of walk: 10am these and more in this history of healthcare Booking required. anniversary of Bob Dylan’s infamous ‘Judas’ Free in Georgian and Victorian Manchester. Trade Hall gig, when he was booed for playing From climate change to the Airport, the Distance: 2.5 miles (Fairly easy) electric guitar we’ll explore Manchester’s Northern Powerhouse to biodiversity, creatively Distance: 1.6 miles (Fairly easy) Meeting point: Courtyard café, passion for music from the best clubs, punk, walking the River Medlock reveals Manchester’s Meeting point: Outside National Football Wythenshawe Park, Wythenshawe Road, Factory, to the Halle Orchestra and more. history, while prompting questions about its Museum entrance, Cathedral Gardens, future as a life support system. Manchester, M23 0AB. Distance: 2 miles (easy) Manchester, M4 3BG. Booking required. Public transport: Wythenshawe Park Meeting point: Manchester Visitor Public transport: Victoria Metrolink stop, Distance: 4 miles (Fairly easy) Metrolink stop, bus stop nearby. information centre, 1 Piccadilly Gardens, bus stop nearby. Contact: Ambokile Bell 07745 259419 or Manchester, M1 1RG. Meeting point: Courtyard café, Oxford Road Contact: Pauline Lloyd 07723 503702 or train station concourse, M1 6FU. email: [email protected] Public transport: Piccadilly Gardens email: [email protected] Metrolink stop, bus stop nearby. Public transport: Oxford Road train station, bus stop nearby. Contact: Emma Fox 07500 774200 or email: [email protected] Contact: David Haley 0161 247 1093 or email: [email protected] Wonder-ful Wednesday Lunchtime Strollers, University of Manchester Wednesday 11 May Start of walk: 12.30pm This walk is a pleasant stroll, and can be increased to a medium or brisk walk depending on the ability of the walkers in attendance. Distance: 1.5 miles (Fairly easy) Meeting point: Entrance to Zochonis Building, Manchester University. Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Contact: Betty-Ann Bristow-Castle 0161 275 0464 or email: [email protected]

26 27 Manchester music walk – 17 May Walkabout the city? – 19 May Manchester (continued) Oldham Monday meander Tree ID and food foraging Historic hunting ground – Tandle Hill park Lunchtime Strollers, Red Rose Forest Crompton Moor Active Oldham Outdoors University of Manchester Sunday 29 May. Start of walk: 10.30am Dunwood Park Nordic Walkers Wednesday 11 May. Start of walk: 2pm Monday 23 May. Start of walk: 12.15pm A guided walk looking at the trees and edible Sunday 8 May. Start of walk: 11am Tandle Hill was used as a meeting area in the bounty growing in Nutsford Vale Park. Walkers 19th century by political activists and the This medium/brisk walk will be invigorating You are invited to walk with Nordic walking will have the opportunity to sample foraged woodland was planted to prevent this. Join us and is designed to set you up for a productive poles to Pingot Quarry waterfall, onto Crompton items. Booking required. on a stroll through history. afternoon: a good step to reaching your Moor and glean information about historic Crow recommended 150 minutes of activity a week.. Distance: 1 mile (Fairly easy) Knowl. Panoramic views of Oldham, Rochdale Distance. 1 mile (medium) and Manchester. Distance: 2 miles (Fairly easy) Meeting point: Nutsford Vale Park, Meeting point: Meet at the park entrance on Meeting point: Entrance to Zochonis Building, Bickerdike entrance, Gorton, M12 5SZ. Distance: 3.3 miles (medium) Tandle Hill Road. Manchester University. Public transport: Belle Vue train station; Meeting point: Bowling Pavilion Dunwood Public transport: Bus stop nearby. bus stop nearby. Park, Smallbrook Road, Shaw, Oldham, OL2 7UR. Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Contact: Chris Cordwell Contact: Betty-Ann Bristow-Castle Contact: Lucy Holland 0161 872 1660 or Public transport: Shaw and Crompton email: [email protected] 0161 275 0464 or email: email: lucy@redroseforest Metrolink stop, bus stop nearby. [email protected] Contact: Jean Norman 01706 565621 or email: [email protected] Werneth Park walk Active Oldham Outdoors Alexandra Park walk Thursday 12 May. Start of walk: 2pm Active Oldham Outdoors This park was created in 1936 from a 19th centuary estate featuring a hall with gardens Tuesday 10 May. Start of walk: 2pm and small park. Join us on a circular walk around this newly renovated park. Follow the clues on this ‘crispy’ circular walk around the park and discover some interesting Distance: 1 mile (Fairly easy) characters along the way. A fun family walk that Meeting point: Main entrance on involves a little bit of detective work. Frederick Street. Distance: 1 mile (Fairly easy) Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Meeting point: Meet at the boathouse, Contact: Park Road, OL8 2BN. email: [email protected] Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Contact: Chris Cordwell email: [email protected]

28 29 Lunch Time Strollers – 23 May Oldham (continued) Waterhead Park walk Mountain Trike ramble – Active Oldham Outdoors Dove Stone Reservoir Friday 13 May. Start of walk: 2pm Experience Community CIC Join active Oldham Outdoors for a leisurely Saturday 21 May. Start of walk: 11am stroll around the newly refurbished Waterhead Mountain Trike ramble at Dove Stone Reservoir, Park and also the lower Strineside Reservoir. Greenfield, Oldham. Distance: 1.5 miles (medium) Distance: 5 miles (on trikes) Meeting point: Meet at the main entrance on Meeting point: Main car park, Dove Stone Peach Road, OL4 2HX. Reservoir, Greenfield, Oldham, OL3 7NE Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Public transport: Greenfield train station, Contact: Chris Cordwell bus stop nearby. email: [email protected] Contact. Laura Vayro 07894 572171 or email [email protected]

Goldwick Lows – Once part of the equator Saddleworth edges Lees Health Walks Oldham Community Leisure Tuesday 17 May. Start of walk: 10.20am Saturday 21 May. Start of walk: 9.45am A walk along a disused railway line to open A walk around the edges of Chew Valley in moorland where goats are kept. On a good day Saddleworth, ascending Alphin Pike and offering views to the Cheshire Plain and beyond. following the edges passing Wimberry Stones, Chew Reservoir and descending at the Fox Stone Distance: 2.6 miles (medium) returning through Chew Plantation. Meeting point: Lees Library, Thomas Street, Distance: 9 miles (challenging) Lees, Oldham, OL4 5DA. Meeting point: The Clarence Pub, Chew Valley Public transport: Oldham Mumps Metrolink Road, Greenfield, OL3 7DD. stop, bus stop nearby. Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Contact: John Norman 01706 565621 or email: [email protected] Contact: Alan Keane 0161 207 7000 or email: [email protected]

30 Image courtesy of Ray Green. www.raygreenphotography.co.uk Oldham (continued) Rochdale Stonebreaks – A favourite walk Tandle Hill two parks A stroll around Littleborough library Lees Health Walks family walk Hollingworth Lake Living Well Rochdale Tuesday 24 May. Start of walk: 10.20am Oldham Ramblers Link4Life Tuesday 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 May A walk along a disused railway line leading Saturday 28 May. Start of walk: 11am Tuesday 3 May. Start of walk: 5pm Start of walk: 9.45am to open farmland down a valley to a stream. Meander through fields, country lanes and A gentle easy stroll around the lake, with the Take in the canals, railway lines and beautiful Ascend the opposite side of the valley and look woodland, including short break in Chadderton option to have a look round the nature reserve. countryside that Littleborough has to offer, for unusual breeds of chickens. Hall Park, ending with a picnic near the then head back to the library for a Distance: 2.1 miles (Fairly easy) Distance. 3.3 miles (medium) information centre, café and adventure well deserved cuppa. playground at Tandle Hill. Booking required. Meeting point: Hollingworth Lake activity Meeting point: Lees Library, Thomas Street, Distance: 1–2 miles (Fairly easy) centre. Lees, Oldham, OL4 5DA. Distance: 4.5 miles (Fairly easy) Meeting point: Littleborough library, Public transport: Littleborough or Smithy Public transport: Oldham Mumps Metrolink Meeting point: Tandle Hill Country Park, Hare Hill Park, Littleborough OL15 9HE. Bridge train station, bus stop nearby. stop, bus stop nearby. Tandle Hill Road, Oldham, OL2 5UX. Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Contact: Simon Duczak 01706 922148 or Contact: John Norman 01706 565621 or Public transport: Bus stop nearby. email: [email protected] Contact: Danny Smith 07773 078426 or email: [email protected] Contact: Marion Shannon 07837 833767 or email: [email protected] email: [email protected]

Cutgate, Bamford and Norden Castleton Living Well Rochdale Living Well Rochdale Tuesday 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 May Wednesday 4, 11, 18 and 25 May Start of walk: 9.45am Start of walk: 9.45am If you are feeling adventurous then feel free to join this walk. This walk includes some beautiful A lovely walk that uses the countryside, canals countryside areas and is very popular with our and even golf courses to make for some very eye walking community. pleasing exercise. Distance: 1–2 miles (medium) Distance: 1–2 miles (Fairly easy) Meeting point: Edenfield Road surgery, Meeting point: Castleton community centre, Cutgate shopping precinct, OL11 5AQ. Manchester Road, Rochdale, OL11 3AF. Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Public transport: Rochdale train station, bus stop nearby. Contact: Danny Smith 07773 078426 or email: [email protected] Contact: Danny Smith 07773 078426 or email: [email protected]

32 33 Werneth Park walk – 12 May Rochdale (continued) Hollingworth Lake Mindfulness walk introduction Living Well Rochdale Red Rose Forest/Rochdale Rangers Wednesday 4, 11, 18 and 25 May Friday 6 May. Start of walk: 10.30am Start of walk: 1.45pm Join us for an introduction to practicing A lovely walk that uses the countryside, canals mindfulness during a guided nature walk. Learn and even golf courses to make for some very eye techniques to help you become more aware and pleasing exercise. conscious of the trees and nature around you. Booking required. Distance: 1–2 miles (Fairly easy) Distance: 3 miles (medium) Meeting point: Hollingworth Lake visitor centre. Off Lake Road, Littleborough, OL15 0AQ. Meeting point: Hollingworth Lake activity centre. Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Public transport: Smithy Bridge train station, Contact: Danny Smith 07773 078426 or bus stop nearby. email: [email protected] Contact: Lucy Holland 0161 872 1660 or email: [email protected]

Alkrington wood Living Well Rochdale Both sides of the valley Friday 5, 12, 19 and 26 May Rochdale Ramblers Start of walk: 9.45am Saturday 7 May. Start of walk: 10.30am Meet Jack inside Comple@t internet café. This walk allows you to take in views of Alkrington A walk in Todmorden on both sides of the Hall and experience the wildlife inhabiting Calder Valley with far reaching views. You will the lodges that surround the many walk ways pass through the hamlets of Mankinholes through the woods. and Lumbutts under the ever present gaze of Stoodley Pike Monument. Distance: 1–2 miles (Fairly easy) Distance: 8 miles (MEDIUM) Meeting point: Comple@t internet café, Midway House, 5 Long Street, Middleton, Meeting point: Lobb Mill Car Park, M24 6TE. Halifax Road, Todmorden, Nearest postcode OL14 6BX. Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Public transport: Todmorden train station, Contact: Danny Smith 07773 078426 or bus stop nearby. email: [email protected] Contact: Richard Gibbons 07889 466157 or email: [email protected]

35 Mountain Trike ramble – Dove Stone Reservoir 21 May Rochdale (continued) Leisurely Saturday walk Littleborough area Lakeside to hillside Ramsbottom war weekend in Littleborough Manchester and Salford Ramblers navigation introduction Rochdale Ramblers Rochdale Ramblers Tuesday 10 May Link4Life Sunday 29 May. Start of walk: 10.30am Saturday 7 May. Start of walk: 1pm Start of walk: 9.56am Victoria Station, Saturday 21 May. Start of walk: 11am A pleasant walk around the hills and historic 10.30am Littleborough Station landscape of the pretty village of Ramsbottom A leisurely paced walk in the South Pennine area Head out with a mountain leader instructor, go which features the River Irwell, East Lancashire of Littleborough taking in the Rochdale Canal A rural walk taking in the lovely area of through some of the basic skills of map reading Railway and Peel Tower. You can experience the and the picturesque Hollingworth Lake. Littleborough and surrounding area. and compass work. Booking required. Booking required. 1940s nostalgia in Ramsbottom after the walk. Distance: 5 miles (Fairly easy) Distance: 10 miles (challenging) Distance: 7 miles (medium) Distance: 7 miles (medium) Meeting point: Littleborough train station, Meeting point: Hollingworth Lake activity Meeting point: Nuttall Park Car Park, Station Road, Littleborough, OL15 8AF. Meeting point: Victoria train station, centre. Manchester, M3 1WY or Littleborough train Nuttall Hall Road, Ramsbottom, BL0 9LU. Public transport: Littleborough train station, Public transport: Smithy Bridge train station, station, OL15 8AR. Public transport: Ramsbottom train station bus stop nearby. bus stop nearby. Public transport: Littleborough train station, (East Lancashire Railway), bus stop nearby. Contact: Richard Gibbons 07889 466157 or Contact: Simon Duczak 01706 922148 or bus stop nearby. Contact: Richard Gibbons 07889 466157 or email: [email protected] email: [email protected] Contact: Margaret Metcalf 0161 839 3865 or email: [email protected] email: [email protected]

Hollin, Boarshaw and Navigation walk Hopwood woods Photograph workshop Map & Compass: Walk your own way Living Well Rochdale Link4Life Sunday 29 May. Start of walk: 10am Monday 9, 16 and 23 May Sunday 15 May. Start of walk: 11am A short walk on clear footpaths introducing you Start of walk: 10.15am to how to use a map and compass to navigate Take out your digital camera and head out yourself around the countryside. As well as Come and meet the group at Hollin estate around the lake with Nigel to get some of his walking we will be standing for some time so management board every Monday at 10.15. best tips for taking pictures. wear appropriate clothing. Maps and compasses This nice walk through the stunning Hopwood Booking required. provided. Booking required. woods, along canals and commons will have you feeling great. Distance: 4 miles (Fairly easy) Distance: 1.5 miles (Fairly easy) Distance: 1–2 miles (Fairly easy) Meeting point: Hollingworth Lake activity Meeting point: Hollingworth Lake visitors centre. centre, Rakewood Road, Littleborough, OL15 0AQ. Meeting point: Hollin Estate management board, Hollin, Middleton, M24 6FL. Public transport: Smithy Bridge train station, Public transport: Littleborough train station, bus stop nearby. bus stop nearby. Public transport: bus stop nearby. Contact: Simon Duczak 01706 922148 or Contact: Jak Radice 07712 858471 or Contact: Danny Smith 07773 078426 or email: [email protected] email: [email protected] email: [email protected]

36 37 Salford Health walk on Salford Quays Wednesday walk Blackleach Country parks Bridgewater bat walk Salford Community Leisure Salford Ranger Team health walks Est. 1761 – The Bridgewater Canal Tuesday 3 May. Start of walk: 12.50pm Wednesday 4, 11, 18 and 25 May Salford Ranger Team Friday 6 and 13 May. Start of walk: 8pm A stroll around Salford Quays taking in Media Start of walk: 10am Thursday 5, 12, 19 and 26 May Join this night time bat walk along the City, Imperial War Museum, Old Trafford A two hour walk around the lovely countryside Start of walk: 10am Bridgewater Canal from Monton to Worsley stadium and the docks. Booking required. in the Irwell Valley starting and finishing in and use a bat detector to hear the sounds they A sociable brisk health walk around a make whilst they hunt for insects. Distance: 2.5 miles (Fairly easy) Clifton Country Park picturesque country park and surrounding Please bring a torch. Booking required, Meeting point: The Helly Hansen Watersport Distance: 5–6 miles (medium) countryside. visit www.est1761.eventbrite.co.uk Centre, 15 The Quays, Salford Quays, M50 3SQ. Meeting point: Clifton Country Park visitors Distance: 2–3 miles (Fairly easy) Distance: 3.5 miles (easy) Public transport: Salford Quays Metrolink centre, Clifton House Road, Salford, M27 6NG. Meeting point: Blackleach Country Park, Meeting point: Old Fold Park, entrance to the stop, bus stop nearby. Public transport: Clifton train station, John Street, Walkden, Salford, M28 3TD. Bridgewater Canal, Parrin Lane, Monton. Contact: Jo Bennett 0161 778 0559 or bus stop nearby. Public transport: Walkden train station, Public transport: Patricroft train station; email: [email protected] Contact: Gale Blackburn 0161 793 4219 or bus stop nearby. bus stop nearby. email: [email protected] Contact: Richard Marshall 0161 790 7746 or Contact: Jill Tyson email: [email protected] email: [email protected]

38 39 Worsley Packet House – Bridgewater Canal Bat Walk – 6, 13 May Tree Goblin Hunt – 14 May Salford (continued) Tiny Tots ramble Blackleach Country Parks Bridgewater Discovery walk Salford Trail – Route 8 Salford Ranger Team toddler walks Est. 1761 – The Bridgewater Canal Manchester and Salford Ramblers Friday 6, 13, 20 and 27 May Salford Ranger Team Saturday 14 May. Start of walk: 2pm Monday 16 May. Start of walk: 11am Start of walk: 10.15am Monday 9, 16 and 23 May ‘Tow-the-line’ walking tour around historic This short walk is the final stage of the Salford A ramble around Clifton Park for parents and Start of walk: 10.30am Monton village, the disused railway loopline and trail which passes under the Bridgewater young children. We might feed the ducks, jump into the Dukes village of Worsley. This circular Canal and parallels the Manchester Ship Canal. A gentle 45 minute buggy- friendly walk around in puddles, or hide in dens on our way round, walk will time travel via science and engineering Walking through Eccles to finish at Media City. the country park for children under 5 followed there’s always something new to see. Join us breakthroughs. Booking required, visit by fruit and juice in the visitor centre. Distance: 3.5 miles (easy) in the centre at the end for a cup of tea and a www.est1761.eventbrite.co.uk Meeting point: Barton Bridge, next to Barton healthy snack. Distance: 1 mile (easy) Distance: 3 miles (Fairly easy) Bridge Pocket Park, Barton Road, Eccles, Distance: 1 mile (Fairly easy) Meeting point: Blackleach Country Park, Meeting point: Dukes Drive, Parrin Lane, M30 0HX. John Street, Walkden, Salford, M28 3TD. Monton. Meeting point: Clifton Country Park visitors Public transport: Bus stop nearby. centre, Clifton House Road, Salford, M27 6NG. Public transport: Walkden train station, Public transport: Patricroft train station, Contact: Margaret Metcalf 07947 864534 or bus stop nearby. bus stop nearby. Public transport: Clifton train station, email: [email protected] bus stop nearby. Contact: Richard Marshall 0161 790 7746 or Contact: Katherine Rice email: [email protected] Contact: Gale Blackburn 0161 793 4219 or email: [email protected] email: [email protected] Moses Gate spring walk Bridgewater discovery walk Tree Goblin Hunt Salford Ranger Team Est. 1761 – The Bridgewater Canal Red Rose Forest Sunday 15 May Tuesday 17 May. Start of walk: 10am Start of walk: 10am Saturday 14 May. Start of walk: 10.30am Following the Bridgewater Canal we will visit A circular spring walk taking in two country Worsley, where the canal began and boats Join Professor Jigget the expert goblin hunter parks, the Irwell River Valley, canals and plenty bought coal from underground, and continue to and tree explorer to find tree goblins around the of wildlife. Boothstown. After a short rest (please bring a park. After the goblin hunt, we’ll make clay tree Distance: 7 miles (medium) packed lunch) we will cross the canal and return boggarts. Booking required. to Dukes Drive, Monton. Booking required, Distance: 1 mile (easy) Meeting point: Blackleach Country Park, visit www.est1761.eventbrite.co.uk John Street, Walkden, Salford, M28 3TD. Meeting point: Green Grosvenor Park, Distance: 6 miles (medium) Clarence Street, Lower Broughton, M71QZ. Public transport: Walkden train station, bus stop nearby. Meeting point: Dukes Drive, Parrin Lane, Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Monton, M30. Contact: Richard Marshall 0161 790 7746 or Contact: Lucy Holland 0161 872 1660 or email: [email protected] Public transport: Patricroft train station, email: [email protected] bus stop nearby. Contact: Katherine Rice email: [email protected]

40 41 Tiny Tots ramble – 6, 13, 20 and 27 May Salford (continued) Stockport Evening walk in Clifton Country Park Walkaday Woodbank/Vernon Park walk Pendlebury area heritage walk Stockport Metropolitan Council Walk Stockport (Walking for Health) Manchester and Salford Ramblers Salford Ranger Team Tuesday 3 May. Start of walk: 1.30pm Monday 9, 16 and 23 May Tuesday 24 May. Start of walk: 7pm Sunday 29 May. Start of walk: 11am Pleasant walks in the countryside with varied Start of walk: 10.15am landscapes and beauty. Evening walk along uneven and some well A walk around Clifton Country Park, stopping The walk starts on a flat area around Woodbank maintained paths around fields and reclaimed to look at some of its heritage and wildlife Distance: 3–4 miles (Fairly easy) Park and then moves into Vernon Park. There mining lands. Lots of wild flowers and history features. are some gradients. Ends at the café. Meeting point: Bramall Hall Courtyard. and some stunning views. Booking required. Distance: 2–3 miles (medium) End point: Cheadle. Distance: 4 miles (Fairly easy) Distance: 1–2 miles (medium) Meeting point: Clifton Country Park visitors Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Meeting point: Isis restaurant car park or centre, Clifton House Road, Salford, M27 6NG. Meeting point: Vernon Park Café, Turncroft Alice Street opposite. Near St Augustine’s Contact: Ernest Nama 0161 474 4595 Lane, Offerton, Stockport, SK1 4JR. Public transport: Clifton train station, Pendlebury. email: [email protected] bus stop nearby. Public transport: Stockport train station, Public transport: Bus stop nearby. bus stop nearby. Contact: Gale Blackburn 0161 793 4219 or Contact: Margaret Metcalf 07947 864534 or email: [email protected] Walkaday Contact: Dawne Fawcett-Tandy 07800 618575 email: [email protected] Stockport Metropolitan Council email: [email protected] Thursday 5 May. Start of walk: 1.30pm Pleasant walks in the countryside with varied landscapes and beauty. Walkaday Distance: 3–4 miles (Fairly easy) Stockport Metropolitan Council Meeting point: Village Hall, Windlehurst Road, Tuesday 10 May. Start of walk: 1.30pm High Lane. Pleasant walks in the countryside with varied End point: To be decided on the day. landscapes and beauty. Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Distance: 3–4 miles (Fairly easy) Contact: Ernest Nama 0161 474 4595 Meeting point: Brinnington Park, email: [email protected] Northumberland Road. End point: Romiley. Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Contact: Ernest Nama 0161 474 4595 email: [email protected]

42 43 Clifton Country Park heritage walk – 29 May Stockport (continued) Walkaday Navigation Walk: Learn to use Green health walk Walkaday Stockport Metropolitan Council a map and compass Manchester Community Giants Stockport Metropolitan Council Wednesday 11 May. Start of walk: 11am Map & Compass: Walk your own way Thursday 19 May. Start of walk: 10.30am Tuesday 24 May. Start of walk: 1pm Pleasant walks in the countryside with varied Saturday 14 May. Start of walk: 10am Friendly walk welcoming all abilities. Pleasant walks in semi-urban areas with plenty landscapes and beauty. Booking required. of green spaces. A short walk on clear footpaths introducing you Distance: 7 miles (Fairly easy) to how to use a map and compass to navigate Distance: 2.5 miles (Fairly easy) Distance: 3–4 miles (Fairly easy) yourself around the countryside. As well as Meeting point: Broadbottom train station. Meeting point: Beechwood cancer care centre, Meeting point: Reddish Bridge, McDonalds. walking we will be standing for some time so do Chelford Grove, Stockport, SK3 8LS. Public transport: Broadbottom train station, wear appropriate clothing. Maps and compasses End point: The Donkey Sanctuary at Gorton. bus stop nearby. provided. Booking required. End point: To be decided on the day. Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Contact: Ernest Nama 0161 474 4595 Distance: 1.5 miles (Fairly easy) Public transport: Stockport train station, Contact: Ernest Nama 0161 474 4595 email: [email protected] bus stop nearby. Meeting point: Reddish Vale visitors centre, email: [email protected] Mill Lane, Reddish, Stockport, Cheshire, Contact: Ambokile Bell 07745 259419 or Walkaday SK5 7HE. email: [email protected] Stockport Metropolitan Council Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Walkaday Stockport Metropolitan Council Thursday 12 May. Start of walk: 1.30pm Contact: Cath Dyson 07411 165058 or email: [email protected] Thursday 26 May. Start of walk: 1.30pm Pleasant walks in semi-urban areas with plenty Walkaday of green spaces. Pleasant walks in semi-urban areas with plenty Stockport Metropolitan Council of green spaces. Distance: 3–4 miles (Fairly easy) Thursday 19 May. Start of walk: 1.30pm Distance: 3–4 miles (Fairly easy) Meeting point: Woodley Shopping Centre/ Walkaday Precinct. Pleasant walks in the countryside with varied Meeting point: War Memorial, St Johns Road, Stockport Metropolitan Council landscapes and beauty. Heaton Mersey. End point: To be decided on the day. Tuesday 17 May. Start of walk: 1.30pm Distance: 3–4 miles (Fairly easy) End point: To be decided on the day. Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Pleasant walks in the countryside with varied Meeting point: Shiloh Road in Mellor. Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Contact: Ernest Nama 0161 474 4595 landscapes and beauty. email: [email protected] End point: Strines. Contact: Ernest Nama 0161 474 4595 Distance: 3–4 miles (Fairly easy) Public transport: Marple train station, email: [email protected] Meeting point: Etherow Country Park, bus stop nearby. Visitor Centre café, Compstall. Contact: Ernest Nama 0161 474 4595 End point: To be decided on the day. email: [email protected] Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Contact: Ernest Nama 0161 474 4595 email: [email protected]

44 45 Stockport (continued) Tameside Walk and talk – Anthony Seddon Walk and talk – Oxford Park Kinder Downfall and Active Tameside Active Tameside Kinder Low Tuesday 3, 10, 17 and 31 May Tuesday 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 May Manchester and Salford Ramblers Start of walk: 12.30pm Start of walk: 10.30am Monday 28 May. Start of walk: 10.30am A gentle 30 minute circular walk through A gentle 30 minute circular walk from Active This walk celebrates the Mass Trespass Ashton. Suitable for all abilities. Oxford Park community gym. Takes in part of the Ashton Canal. Suitable for all abilities. of 1932. Walking over the Kinder Downfall Distance: 1 mile (easy) and Kinderlow. Distance: 1 mile (easy) Meeting point: The Anthony Seddon Distance: 7 miles (challenging) Fund Centre, 140 Stamford Street, Meeting point: Active Oxford Park, Pottinger Meeting point: Bowden Bridge Car Park, Ashton-under-Lyne, OL6 6AD. Street, Ashton-under-Lyne, OL7 0PW. Kinder Road, Hayfield, SK22 2LH. Public transport: Ashton Metrolink stop, Public transport: Guide Bridge train station, Public transport: No public transport nearby. bus stop nearby. bus stop nearby. Contact: Cath Dyson 07411 165058 or Contact: Sean Vickers 0161 366 4860 or Contact: Sean Vickers 0161 366 4860 or email: [email protected] email: [email protected] email: [email protected]

Walk and talk – Denton Pool Ashton health walk – Active Tameside Park Bridge Tuesday 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 May Tameside Health Walks Start of walk: 10am Wednesday 4 May. Start of walk: 11am A gentle 30 minute circular walk from Active A health walk along the old railway line to the Denton. The walk goes through Victoria Park historic Park Bridge Ironworks site. and passes Denton’s famous ‘Black and White’ church. Suitable for all abilities. Distance: 3 miles (Fairly easy) Distance: 1 mile (easy) Meeting point: Broadoak Centre, Broadoak Road, Ashton, OL6 8RS. Meeting point: Active Denton, Victoria Street, Denton, M34 3GU. Public transport: Ashton-under-Lyne Metrolink stop, bus stop nearby. Public transport: Denton train station, bus stop nearby. Contact: George Cope 07855 984586 or email: [email protected] Contact: Sean Vickers 0161 366 4860 or email: [email protected]

46 47 Manchester and Salford Ramblers – 28 May Tameside (continued) Fair Daisy Nook – Ashton to Walk and Talk – Hyde health walk What’s it all about Alphin? – Woodhouses via Daisy Nook Dukinfield library Tameside Health Walks Alphin Pike from Carrbrook circular Active Tameside Monday 9, 16 and 23 May. Tameside Ramblers Tameside Ramblers Thursday 5, 12, 19, 26 and 31 May Start of walk: 10.30am Wednesday 11 May Wednesday 4 May. Start of walk: 11am Start of walk: 11am A short health walk round the tranquil Hyde Park. Start of walk: 10.30am Mainly flat walk suitable for all family and dogs, A gentle 30 minute circular walk from Active Distance: 1 mile (easy) A strenuous walk over moorland via Harridge Dukinfield library, through Dukinfield Park. Pike, Higher Swineshaw, Ogden Clough and can be muddy in parts and some narrow paths. Meeting point: The Grafton Centre, Suitable for all abilities. Chew Valley skyline to Alphin Pike, returning Grafton Street, Hyde. Distance: 5.5 miles (Fairly easy) along the ‘Roman Road’ to Carrbrook. Distance: 1 mile (Fairly easy) Public transport: Hyde Central train station, Meeting point: Ashton under Lyne train Distance: 9–10 miles (challenging) station, Wellington Road, Ashton-under-Lyne, Meeting point: Dukinfield Library, bus stop nearby. Concord walk, Dukinfield, SK16 4DB. Meeting point: Carrbrook Village car park at OL6 6JP. Contact: George Cope 07855 984586 or the top of Buckton Vale Road, SK15 3NY. Public transport: Ashton-under-Lyne train Public transport: Stalybridge train station, email: [email protected] station, bus stop nearby. bus stop nearby. Public transport: Stalybridge train station, bus stop nearby. Contact: Peter Summers 0161 339 0346 or Contact: Sean Vickers 0161 366 4860 or email: [email protected] email: [email protected] Contact: John Bewick 01457 832226 or Walk and Talk – Sunnybank Vale email: [email protected] Active Tameside Bottoms up to the Hague Monday 9, 16, and 23 May – Broadbottom and Hurst Start of walk: 11am Spring into Medlock Valley A gentle 30 minute circular walk through Tameside Ramblers Clough circular Droylsden. Suitable for all abilities. Tameside Ramblers Sunnybank Vale is a unique area of urban Saturday 14 May. Start of walk: 10.30am countryside. It’s that little bit of green Mainly flat walk through Medlock Valley, Saturday 7 May. Start of walk: 11am space on your doorstep. A gentle circular suitable for experienced walkers and dogs, An easy walk along quiet lanes, woodland and walk that is suitable for all abilities. but not families with young children. farmland. Good views from higher ground. Distance: 1 mile (Fairly easy) Distance: 9.5 miles (medium) Distance: 4 miles (Fairly easy) Meeting point: Sunnybank Vale car park, Meeting point: Ashton-under-Lyne train station, Meeting point: Broadbottom station, Greenside Lane (opposite Springfield Road), Wellington Road, Ashton-under-Lyne, OL6 6JP. Lower Market Street, Broadbottom. Droylsden, M43 7SL. Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Public transport: Broadbottom train station, Public transport: Droylsden Metrolink stop, Contact: Peter Summers 0161 339 0346 or bus stop nearby. bus stop nearby. email: [email protected] Contact: Lynda Chandler 07974 275668 or Contact: Sean Vickers 0161 366 4860 or email: [email protected] email: [email protected]

48 49 Tameside (continued) Stamford health walk Mossley health walk Bridges over Double Waters Droylsden health walk Tameside Health Walks Tameside Health Walks – Peak Forest Canal and River Tameside Health Walks Saturday 14, 21 and 28 May. Wednesday 18 and 25 May. Tame Saturday 21 May. Start of walk: 1.30pm Start of walk: 2pm Tameside Ramblers Start of walk: 10.30am A short health walk around the award winning A gentle walk around the historic Huddersfield Saturday 21 May. Start of walk: 11am A health walk along around Ashton Moss and Stamford Park. Narrow Canal and Micklehurst loop railway line. the Medlock Valley to Daisy Nook with coffee An easy walk by the Peak Forest Canal and River break and return walk. Distance: 1 mile (easy) Distance: 3 miles (Fairly easy) Tame. Can be muddy in places so waterproof Distance: 3 miles (Fairly easy) Meeting point: The Café, Stamford Park, Ashton. Meeting point: Roaches Lock Inn, footwear is recommended. Suitable for all the Manchester Road, Mossley, OL5 9BB. family but not buggies or pushchairs Meeting point: Medlock Leisure Centre, Public transport: Ashton-under-Lyne Droylsden, M43 7XU. Metrolink stop, bus stop nearby. Public transport: Mossley train station, Distance: 4.5 miles (Fairly easy) bus stop nearby. Public transport: Droylsden Metrolink stop, Contact: George Cope 07855 984586 or Meeting point: Manchester Road Hyde, bus stop nearby. email: [email protected] Contact: George Cope 07855 984586 or by bus stop near Aldi/opposite Cheshire email: [email protected] Cheese pub, SK14 2BJ. Contact: George Cope 07855 984586 or Public transport: Hyde Central train station, email: [email protected] bus stop nearby. The highs and lows Contact: Stewart Ramsden 07714 445118 or email: [email protected] of Tameside Stalybridge health walk Tameside Ramblers Tameside Health Walks Wednesday 18 May Monday 23 May. Start of walk: 1pm Start of walk: 10.30am A health walk around the little known beauty A moderately strenuous walk through woodland of Stalybridge Country Park or the historic and farmland following field paths and quiet Micklehurst Loop railway line and Huddersfield lanes. A varied circuit with splendid views. Narrow Canal. Distance: 12 miles (challenging) Distance: 3 miles (Fairly easy) Meeting point: Broadbottom train station, Meeting point: Copley Leisure Centre, Lower Market Street, Broadbottom. Huddersfield Road, Stalybridge, SK15 3ET. Public transport: Broadbottom train station, Public transport: Stalybridge train station, bus stop nearby. bus stop nearby. Contact: Lynda Chandler 07974 275668 or Contact: George Cope 07855 984586 or email: [email protected] email: [email protected]

50 51 Walk and Talk – Anthony Seddon walk 3, 10, 17, 31 May Tameside (continued) Trafford The wild side of Tameside: The Stalybridge murder walk Meadow bat walk Sale Water Park nordic walk wild bank and Tameside Ramblers Red Rose Forest Trafford Leisure Hollingworth Hall Moor Saturday 28 May Wednesday 4 May Friday 6, 13, 20 and 27 May Tameside Ramblers Start of walk: 10.30am Start of walk: 8.30pm Start of walk: 12noon Wednesday 25 May A fairly varied walk taking in the grounds A guided walk around the meadows with bat Situated amongst the beauty of Sale Water of an old mansion, where a local murder detectors. Listen to the different bat calls Park, various routes delivered around the Start of walk: 10.30am was committed. Two moderate hills in open and watch as they fly above in search of food. neighbouring woodland and river paths. Energetic walk across farmland and moorland. countryside, concluding with a canal walk Please bring a torch. Booking required. The Nordic poles provide an increased A long climb onto Wild Bank Hill which, at workout – particularly for the upper body. Distance: 8.5 miles (medium) Distance: 2 miles (easy) 399m, is one of the highest points in Tameside, Distance: 3 miles (medium) with extensive views. Meeting point: Stalybridge Station, Meeting point: Urmston Meadows, Market Street, Stalybridge, SK15 1RF. Riverside Drive (Matlock Avenue entrance). Meeting point: Sale Water Park – Outside Distance: 12 miles (challenging) visitors centre and metro cafe. M33 2LX. Public transport: Stalybridge train station, Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Meeting point: Under the arches by Godley bus stop nearby. Public transport: Sale Water Park Metrolink train station, Mottram Road, Hyde, SK14 4DP. Contact: Janie Burrage 0161 872 1660 or stop; bus stop nearby. Contact: John Harrison 0161 368 7341 or email: [email protected] Public transport: Godley train station, email: [email protected] Contact: Matthew Round 0161 286 3968 or bus stop nearby. email: [email protected] Contact: Stewart Ramsden 07714 445118 or email: [email protected]

52 53 The wild side of Tameside: wild bank and Hollingworthall Moor – 25 May Hay Meadow, Urmston Meadows Trafford (continued) Sale Water Park and Spring forage Parks of Sale The Waterway bat Walk Chorlton Ees Red Rose Forest Red Rose Forest Red Rose Forest Ramblers Trafford Group Saturday 7 May. Start of walk: 10.30am Sunday 8 May. Start of walk: 11am Thursday 19 May. Start of walk: 8.50pm Saturday 7 May. Start of walk: 11am Guided forage around Sale Water Park to Join our guides on a journey through some of A guided walk around the water park with uncover some of the edible delights on offer the finest parks in Sale. Explore Moor Nook bat detectors. Listen to the different bat calls Join the local Ramblers group for a leisurely this spring. Walkers will have the opportunity to Park, Walkden Gardens, Worthington Park and and watch as they fly above in search of food. stroll around Sale Water Park and Chorlton Ees. sample foraged items. Booking required. Priory Gardens. Refreshments provided after Please bring a torch. Booking required. This easy flat walk will take around 2 hours to the walk. Booking required. complete. Distance: 2 miles (Fairly easy) Distance: 2 miles (easy) Distance: 4.7 miles (medium) Distance: 4–5 miles (easy) Meeting point: Mersey Valley visitors centre, Meeting point: Mersey Valley visitors centre, Sale Water Park, Rifle Road, M33 2LX. Meeting point: The Bridge Inn, Dane Road, Sale Water Park, Rifle Road, M33 2LX. Meeting point: Mersey Valley Visitor Centre, M33 7QH. Rifle Road, Sale, M33 2LX. Public transport: Sale Water Park Metrolink, Public transport: Sale Water Park Metrolink bus stop nearby. Public transport: Dane Road Metrolink stop, stop, bus stop nearby. Public transport: Sale Water Park Metrolink, bus stop nearby. bus stop nearby. Contact: Janie Burrage 0161 872 1660 or Contact: Janie Burrage 0161 872 1660 or email: [email protected] Contact: Janie Burrage 0161 872 1660 or email: [email protected] Contact: Sheila Kabbani 07930 320923 or email: [email protected] email: [email protected]

Tree treasure trail Bumblebee walk Red Rose Forest Red Rose Forest Tuesday 31 May. Start of walk: 10.30am Tuesday 10 May. Start of walk: 11am Follow the woodland trail to uncover little Anyone can become a bee walker! Join our treasures. Along the way you will discover lots monthly Bee Walk and take part in a nationwide about the woods and the wildlife that lives in monitoring programme by counting bees as you Woodheys Park. Booking required. walk. This is conservation at your feet. Booking Distance: 1 mile (easy) required. Meeting point: Woodheys Park, Distance: 1.2 miles (easy) Kenmore Road, Sale, M33 4LP. Meeting point: Sale Water Park visitors centre, Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Sale Water Park, Rifle Road, M33 2LX. Contact: Janie Burrage 0161 872 1660 or Public transport: Sale Water Park Metrolink email: [email protected] stop, bus stop nearby. Contact: Janie Burrage 0161 872 1660 or email: [email protected]

54 55 Tree Treasure Trail – 31 May Wigan Bridgewater medical centre Atherton Children’s Centre Three Sisters Howe Bridge history walk walk Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles and area walk Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles Thursday 5, 12, 19 and 26 May Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles Tuesday 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 May Wednesday 4, 11, 18 and 25 May Start of walk: 1.15pm Friday 20 May Start of walk: 1.20pm Start of walk: 9.50am A fabulous walk around the Three Sisters. Start of walk: 10.50am Beautiful scenery on route and an opportunity A 1 hour health walk suitable for beginners and An ideal walk for families with buggies or small A social and scenic walk around the historic area to bird watch at various points intermediates. A chance to visit and see the children. Social and fun walk around Atherton of Howe Bridge and Atherton. A walk full of history along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal. area. Distance: 3 miles (Fairly easy) historical information. Distance: 3 miles (Fairly easy) Distance: 3 miles (easy) Meeting point: Car park by the lake, Distance: 3 miles (Fairly easy) Three Sisters Road,WN4 8DD. Meeting point: Outside the Bridgewater Meeting point: Meet outside Atherton Meeting point: Outside Howe Bridge Leisure medical centre reception, Henry Street, children’s centre reception, Formby Avenue, Public transport: Bryn train station, Centre reception, Eckersley Fold Lane, Leigh, WN72PE. Atherton, M46 0HX. bus stop nearby. Atherton, M46 0PJ. Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Public transport: Atherton train station, Contact: Tracy Morris 07943 840259 or Public transport: Atherton train station, bus stop nearby. email: [email protected] bus stop nearby. Contact: Tracy Morris 07943 840259 or email: [email protected] Contact: Tracy Morris 07943 840259 or Contact: Tracy Morris 07943 840259 or email: [email protected] email: [email protected] Pennington Flash Country Park Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles Thursday 5, 12, 19 and 26 May Start of walk: 9.50am A scenic and beautiful walk around picturesque Pennington Flash. There will be an opportunity to see a variety of wildlife on offer along the walk. Distance: 3 miles (Fairly easy) Meeting point: Meet at the portacabin next to the rangers hut, WN7 3PA. Public transport: Bus stop nearby. Contact: Tracy Morris 07943 840259 or email: [email protected]

56 57 Wigan health walk Walking group directory Lees Health Walks Bolton Manchester Oldham Lees Health Walks are a sociable group of Oldham Ramblers Bolton Council – Walk this way Friends of Blackley Forest walkers who meet at Lees Library every Oldham Ramblers are one of the most active Tuesday at 10.15am for a 10.30am local walk. Walk this way run a series of health walks led The Friends of Blackley Forest are a group walking groups in the area. On a Sunday the The group delivers 3 different levels of walk, by trained volunteers. The walks are suitable of volunteers dedicated to the conservation group offers two walks, one is an easy level so there are walks to suit all abilities. for anyone exercising for the first time or of Blackley Forest in North Manchester. walk and the other is of moderate difficulty. who hasn’t exercised for a while. Walks vary Health walks around the forest take place For more information: Every Wednesday the group delivers a walk from one to two hours in duration at different on Mondays and Thursdays twice a month www.walkingforhealth.org.uk/ with a pub lunch, the walk has a short option, paces to suit all preferences and abilities. throughout the year. walkfinder/oldham-lees-health-walks-0 or a longer day option. Non-members are very For more information: For more information: welcome to attend the walks. 01706 565621 www.getactivebolton.co.uk www.blackleyforest.com For more information: 01204 488202 Dunwood Park Nordic Walkers 0161 795 0900 www.oldhamramblers.org.uk getactivebolton Dunwood Park Nordic Walkers offers 07837 833767 Red Rose Forest approximately one and a half hours of Nordic Walking. Optional walking poles provided. Bolton Hospice There are lots of walks in and around Active Oldham Outdoors Second Sunday of the month – meet at 11am. This walking group welcome anyone who Manchester and Trafford organized by the Active Oldham Outdoors is a unique walking Different destinations and a guest speaker has been affected by cancer, including Red Rose Forest team. Red Rose Forrest is project that looks at fun and enjoyable ways each month. No need to book. carers, family and friends. They meet on the a community initiative helping to transform of increasing walking participation across the first Friday of the month at 1pm at various a large part of Greater Manchester into a For more information: borough of Oldham. locations around Bolton. Walks are at a greener, healthier and more satisfying place Dunwood Park Nordic Walkers For more information: medium to slow pace and last for about to live, work and invest. 07904 072181 30 minutes. For more information: Active-Oldham Outdoors -1641912102695438/ For more information: www.redroseforest.co.uk Experience Community CIC [email protected] www.boltonhospice.org.uk 0161 872 1660 Experience Community CIC is a not-for-profit Community Interest Company that provides 01204 488202 Oldham Community Leisure Manchester Community Giants films and information about walks and other Oldham Community Leisure deliver a number leisure activities for disabled people and the Manchester Community Giants deliver health Bury of walks in the Oldham area. wider community. walks in Manchester on behalf of Macmillan Join in a session with a qualified Nordic Bury – Walk with Me Active Manchester. Try a mountain trike every Tuesday 11.00am- Walking instructor, meet new friends and 3.30pm for free – booking is essential. Walk with Me hold weekly health walks in For more information: enjoy the outdoors. Nordic Walking sessions Summerseat, Greenmount & Prestwich, For more information: http://www.macmillanactive are run from Oldham Sports Centre & catering for a variety of fitness levels ranging manchester.com/#!activities/c9ft Saddleworth Pool and Fitness Club. www.experiencecommunity.co.uk from shorter 30 minute walks to longer walks 07894 572171 of 90 minutes. The walks being delivered 07745 259419 For more information: by the group are soon to be extended across www.oclactive.co.uk other areas of Bury. 0161 207 7000 For more information: www.walkingforhealth.org.uk walk finder/north-west/bury-health-walks 0161 253 6396

58 59 Walking group directory (continued) Rochdale Rochdale Ramblers The Rochdale Ramblers are affiliated to the Link4Life Ramblers Association and are within the Link4life is a registered charity that provides Greater Manchester and High Peak Area. many of the leisure and cultural services in There are currently 221 members and new the borough of Rochdale. Hollingworth Lake members are always welcome. Walks take Water Activity Centre is one of its many sites place on both weekdays and weekends and here at the centre they provide a wide throughout the year and as well as an annual range of activities that are water and land coach trip there are periodic walking events based. The group offers walks led by staff and socials. Walks are mainly in and around members that have a keen interested in the South Pennine area covering distances walking and getting out into the surrounding of between 5 and 10 miles and there are also Pennines. The walks offer participants the opportunities for longer more challenging chance to head out to the hills and either walks for members learn some photography skills, learn some For more information: simple navigation techniques or just get some www.rochdaleramblers.co.uk fresh air and exercise. 07889 466157 For more information: www.link4life.org/whats-on/preview/ guided-walks-tours 01706 922148 HollingworthLakeActivityCentre LivingWell Rochdale The Livingwell team works with you to help make changes to your health and wellbeing. The team delivers services out of local community venues across Rochdale Borough and all our services are free to use. The service is commissioned by Rochdale Metropolitan Council. For more information: www.thebiglifegroup.com/ big-life-centres/livingwell 01706 751190

60 61 Oldham Werneth Park Walking group directory (continued) Salford Est. 1761 – Bridgewater Canal Project Salford Community Leisure Established in 1761, the Bridgewater Canal Salford Community Leisure deliver health sparked a golden age of canal building. The walks encouraging and supporting people original stretch of the canal in Salford and to become more physically active in order the great green spaces next to it offer lots of to improve their health. The walks are led opportunities for walkers of all abilities. by trained volunteers and can be from 45 minutes to an hour. Join in weekly health walks, tackle a heritage trail or book on one of the many themed For more information: walks throughout the year – including www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk foraging, bat detecting, photography, 0161 778 0559 umbrella doodling or fungi spotting. With the support of funding from the Heritage Manchester and Salford Ramblers Lottery Fund, Salford City Council is working in partnership with the Bridgwater Canal Manchester and Salford Ramblers, who Company to revitalise the original stretch are also part of the Manchester and High of the Bridgewater Canal in Salford. In 2016 Peak area of the Ramblers, offer a varied towpaths are being improved, with better programme of weekly walks and hikes around access to the canal, new signage and lots of Manchester and Salford. The walks delivered engaging activities and events. can also include some city centre walks, the walks are generally 5-6 mile walks on Over 250 years after it opened, there has Tuesdays and Saturdays. never been a better time to rediscover Salford’s Bridgewater Canal – and walking is For more information: the perfect way to explore all it has to offer. www.manchesterandsalfordramblers. For more information: org.uk www.est1761.org 0161 839 3865 Salford Ranger Team Salford Ranger team deliver regular 2 hour ‘Wednesday walks’ and Friday ‘Tiny Tots rambles’ around Clifton Country Park, there are also bike rides for those who prefer two wheels! For more information: www.visitsalford.info/allevents.htm 0161 793 4219

Image courtesy of Jim Barrott www.jimbarrottphotography.co.uk 63 Walking group directory (continued) Stockport Tameside Trafford Wigan Walk Stockport Tameside Ramblers Red Rose Forest Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles Walk Stockport is aimed at people looking to The Tameside branch of the Ramblers There are lots of walks in around Manchester Active Living’s Health Walks programme is led become more active from a health point of Association, delivers walks in and around the and Trafford organized by the Red Rose Forest by volunteers who offer people living in Wigan view. The group offers a range of walks in and Tameside area. The group offers two walks a team. Red Rose Forrest is a community an accessible yet diverse programme of walks, around Stockport from between 30 minutes week on a Wednesday and Saturday. initiative helping to transform a large part of featuring walks of various lengths, Historic to an hour. For more information: Greater Manchester into a greener, healthier and Nature Walks and Nordic Walking. and more satisfying place to live, work and For more information: www.tamesideramblers.org.uk For more information: invest. www.walkingforhealth.org.uk/ 0161 339 0346 www.getactivewiganandleigh.co.uk For more information: walkfinder/stockport-walk-stockport 07943 840259 07800 618575 Tameside Health Walks www.redroseforest.co.uk Tameside Health Walks offer a series of 0161 872 1660 GM Wide Walk a Day short, guided walks aimed at promoting a RedRoseForest Walkaday is a programme of friendly led- healthier lifestyle for older people as well as Map and Compass walks which aims to encourage people to being suitable for people of varying abilities. Trafford Leisure Map and Compass: walk your own way is Cath walk. Walkaday is administered by Stockport The weekly walks are between one and three Trafford Leisure provide a Health Walk Dyson and Jak Radice. Both are qualified Council and walks are led by volunteers. Our miles long, can be taken at your own pace Scheme which is suitable for all ages. All walk leaders. They run navigation walks for programme of friendly led walks explores and are ideal for people who are not used to walks are free of charge and led by trained beginners and more experienced walkers in the parks, footpaths and green spaces of taking regular exercise. health walk leaders. There are several guided and around the wonderful South Pennines Stockport on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The For more information: health walks as part of the STRIDE health Moorland Landscape. Tuesdays and Thursdays walks are about www.walkingforhealth.org.uk/walkfinder walk scheme, one of which is indoors at the For more information: 4 miles long and aim to encourage people /north-west/tameside-health-walks Trafford Centre! All walks are between 45 www.mapandcompass.wix.com/ who are new or returning to exercise the minutes to an hour. mapandcompass opportunity to attend walks delivered at a 07855 984586 For more information: relaxing pace. Unless stated otherwise, the 07411 165058 starting time for most of the Tuesday and Active Tameside www.walkingforhealth.org.uk/ Thursday walks is usually 1.30 p.m. With a vision ‘to inspire people to live well walkfinder/north-west/trafford-stride For more information: and feel great!’ Active Tameside offers 0161 286 3968 www.stockport.gov.uk/services/ an exercise referral service, aiming to leisureculture/walkinginstockport/ help improve the health of the Tameside Trafford Ramblers population. Visit the website to find out if you 0161 217 6111 The Ramblers Trafford Group is part of the qualify and can come out an join us on some Ramblers national charity. We provide 7-12 of our led walks. mile led walks on Thursdays and Sundays as For more information: well as short, easy Saturday Strolls for those www.livewelltameside.com/home/ who are new to walking. The group also has community-exercise-activities an active footpath team who are involved in monitoring and maintaining our local 0161 366 4860 footpaths and rights of way. For more information: www.ramblers-trafford.co.uk 07930 320923 64 65 66 Bridgewater Way Greater Manchester Walking Weekends

Explore Greater Manchester and surrounds this summer and autumn with free guided walks. In addition to the May walking festival, Transport for Greater Manchester is organising ‘Walking Weekends’, starting this summer. These weekends will involve a number of free guided walks, across the region, taking in both suburban and urban landscapes. Experienced walk guides from organisations like the Ramblers, will lead the way and provide fascinating facts that showcase the rich tapestry of Greater Manchester’s history and culture. A wide range of walks will be on offer, to suit all ages and abilities. All walks will start and finish within easy reach of public transport and will explore sections of, for example, the Salford Trail and Manchester’s Green Corridor. The first Walking Weekends will take place later this year, dates will be confirmed nearer the time. Carragh Teague, Walking Coordinator at Transport for Greater Manchester, says: “By putting on these free guided Walking Weekends, we are hoping to encourage more people to get out and walk for fun, whether as an individual, with friends or as a family. They are a great way to explore all Greater Manchester has to offer, from canal-side walks, to leafy parks and historical landmarks. The guides bring the walks to life and make sure there is something to suit every taste.”

To find out more about the ‘Greater Manchester Walking Weekends’ visit

www.tfgm.com/walking

www.facebook.com/GMwalkingfestival