The 20 Most Amazing Peaks around Greater Manchester

Visitors to Greater Manchester frequently enjoy peaks like Kinder Low Trig Point, which offers wonderful views and is part of iconic trails like the Pennine Way. Another popular choice is Stoodley Pike Monument, a striking 38-meter structure with extensive views. Black Hill Trig Point is also well-regarded for its rugged charm and far-reaching views on clear days.

The highest point in Greater Manchester is Black Chew Head, standing at 542 meters (1,778 ft) above sea level. Located in Saddleworth, on the edge of the Peak District National Park, it offers an otherworldly experience and long-distance views across expansive moorland, including the Chew Valley and Dovestone Reservoir.

Yes, several peaks feature historical landmarks. Holcombe Hill is topped by the iconic Peel Tower, a monument built in 1852 in tribute to Sir Robert Peel. Stoodley Pike Monument, a stone obelisk completed in 1856 to mark the end of the Crimean War, also offers breathtaking views. Additionally, Hartshead Pike is known for its 18th-century monument, which once served as a warning beacon.

The peaks around Greater Manchester offer diverse and stunning panoramic views. From Holcombe Hill, you can see Ramsbottom and potentially North Wales on a clear day. Werneth Low provides views across Greater Manchester, including the city itself, Winter Hill, and even the Welsh mountains. Winter Hill offers hilltop views stretching to Pendle Hill, Blackpool Tower, and Mount Snowdon. Hartshead Pike provides extensive views of Ashton-under-Lyne, Mossley, Saddleworth, and Oldham, extending to the Pennine moors and North Wales.

Yes, the region offers options for families. The area around Dovestone Reservoir, for instance, features a range of trails for all abilities, including easy circular walks. Holcombe Hill is described as having a 'fairly easy ascent' with a clear, waymarked track, making it suitable for many. For more easy hiking options, you can explore routes like the Etherow Country Park loop or walks around Dunham Massey.

Beyond hiking, the areas around Greater Manchester's peaks offer various outdoor activities. You can find mountain biking trails, such as the Marple loop in the Peak District National Park or the Philips Park Waterdale Trail. Running is also popular, with routes like the Bull Hill & Harcles Hill loop. Werneth Low Country Park is also a great spot for horse riding.

For a more challenging experience, consider Bull Hill, recognized as the most prominent mountain in Greater Manchester, suggesting a significant ascent. Bleaklow Head, a rugged moorland plateau, offers a real sense of solitude and requires appropriate footwear due to potentially boggy conditions. The area around Black Chew Head, with its moorland terrain, also provides a remote and challenging environment.

Crompton Moor is known for its wildlife and trails, featuring picturesque views and a hidden waterfall. The area around Dovestone Reservoir includes prominent craggy rock faces like Indians Head (Wimberry Rocks), popular with climbers. Black Chew Head is characterized by its expansive moorland terrain, offering a remote and natural atmosphere.

While specific seasonal advice isn't always available, many peaks, such as Holcombe Hill, Werneth Low, and Winter Hill, mention that 'on a clear day' you can enjoy the most extensive and far-reaching views. Clear weather conditions are generally best for maximizing the panoramic vistas from these elevated points.

Komoot offers various guides for routes in the area. For general hiking, you can explore guides like Easy hikes around Greater Manchester. If you're interested in running, check out Running Trails around Greater Manchester, which includes routes like the Standedge Circuit. For mountain biking, the MTB Trails around Greater Manchester guide provides options like the New Mills Golf Course Climb.

Access to Black Chew Head is possible from Dovestones Reservoir via the Chew Reservoir access road, or from Crowden in Derbyshire and the A635, suggesting various entry points. Hartshead Pike is noted for its relatively easy walking route and accessibility. While specific public transport details for each peak are not provided, many popular outdoor areas in Greater Manchester are generally well-connected or have designated parking areas for visitors.

The Dovestone Reservoir area, while not a single peak, is famed for its picturesque views and rugged hills on the outskirts of Oldham. It offers a range of trails for all abilities, from easy circular walks to more challenging hikes. Prominent features like Indians Head (Wimberry Rocks) provide beautiful views over the reservoir, Pots and Pans Stones, and across Greater Manchester, making it ideal for enjoying natural scenery and bouldering.