Manchester-hiking-areas

Discover the Best Hiking Areas in Manchester

Manchester, a vibrant city in North West England, is surrounded by beautiful countryside and stunning natural landscapes, making it an ideal destination for hikers. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or just starting out, Manchester offers a range of hiking trails to suit all levels. Here are some of the best hiking areas in and around Manchester:

1. The Peak District National Park

  • Distance from Manchester: 30-40 minutes by car
  • Trails: Gentle strolls to challenging hikes, including the famous Kinder Scout trail

The Peak District is one of the most popular national parks in the UK, and for good reason. With its rugged hills, scenic valleys, and picturesque villages, it’s a hiker’s paradise.

2. Rivington Pike

  • Distance from Manchester: 20-30 minutes by car
  • Trails: Moderate to challenging hikes with stunning views of the surrounding countryside

Rivington Pike is a beautiful area of moorland and woodland, offering breathtaking views of the West Pennine Moors. On a clear day, you can even see as far as the Lake District!

3. The Pennines

  • Distance from Manchester: 30-40 minutes by car
  • Trails: Gentle to challenging hikes, including the Pennine Way

The Pennines offer some of the most spectacular hiking in the UK. With its rolling hills, picturesque valleys, and stunning scenery, it’s a must-visit for any hiker.

4. Dunham Massey

  • Distance from Manchester: 20-30 minutes by car
  • Trails: Gentle strolls through woodland and parkland

Dunham Massey is a beautiful deer park with several walking trails that take you through stunning woodland and parkland. It’s perfect for families or those looking for a more leisurely hike.

5. Etherow Country Park

  • Distance from Manchester: 30-40 minutes by car
  • Trails: Gentle to moderate hikes around the reservoir and surrounding countryside

Etherow Country Park is a hidden gem in the heart of the Peak District. With its stunning reservoir, scenic trails, and picturesque villages, it’s a great place to explore on foot.

6. Tandle Hill

  • Distance from Manchester: 20-30 minutes by car
  • Trails: Moderate hikes with stunning views of the surrounding countryside

Tandle Hill is a beautiful area of moorland and woodland, offering breathtaking views of the West Pennine Moors. On a clear day, you can even see as far as the Lake District!

7. Werneth Low

  • Distance from Manchester: 20-30 minutes by car
  • Trails: Gentle to moderate hikes with stunning views of the surrounding countryside

Werneth Low is a beautiful area of moorland and woodland, offering breathtaking views of the West Pennine Moors. It’s perfect for those looking for a more leisurely hike.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, Manchester has something to offer. So why not lace up your hiking boots, grab your backpack, and explore some of the best hiking areas in and around Manchester?