The best walks and hikes around Shaw And Crompton

Yes, the area offers several easier walks suitable for families. For a more leisurely experience, you can explore the paths in High Crompton Park, which has ornamental gardens and a play area. Another good option is a walk around Tandle Hill Country Park, a local favorite with gentle woodland trails and plenty of space for kids to explore.

The Pingot Quarry Waterfall is a highlight of Crompton Moor and is featured in several routes. A great way to see it is on the Beware of the Bull Sign – Pingot Quarry Waterfall loop from Wood End. This is a relatively short walk that takes you through woodland directly to the popular waterfall.

Many trails in the area are great for walking with dogs, especially across the open spaces of Crompton Moor. However, be aware that you will likely encounter livestock, so it's important to keep your dog on a lead in these areas. Also, some paths can be rocky or muddy, so ensure your dog is comfortable with varied terrain.

Crompton Moor is perfect for circular hikes. For a route that combines several key features of the moor, including reservoirs and expansive views, consider the Pingot Quarry Waterfall – Overflow at Ogden Reservoir loop from Shaw and Crompton. This moderate trail gives you a fantastic tour of the area's varied landscape.

There is a dedicated car park for Crompton Moor located off Buckstones Road (B6197), which serves as a convenient starting point for many trails. It can get busy, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended. Some on-street parking may be available in nearby residential areas like Wood End, but be sure to park considerately.

Yes, the Shaw and Crompton Metrolink station provides excellent access to the area. From the station, it's a walk of about 20-30 minutes to reach the edge of Crompton Moor and the start of several popular trails. This makes it a convenient option for those travelling without a car.

Definitely. For a strenuous day out with significant elevation gain, the View of Castleshaw Reservoir – Brushes Clough Reservoir loop from Moorside is an excellent choice. This long-distance trail covers rugged moorland terrain and rewards you with expansive views across the South Pennines.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the mix of landscapes, from the rugged, open moorland of Crompton Moor to the tranquil paths around Brushes Clough and Piethorne reservoirs. The stunning panoramic views over Manchester and Rochdale from high points like Crow Knowl are also a frequently mentioned highlight.

For some of the most impressive panoramic views, head to the higher points of Crompton Moor. From spots like Crow Knowl, you can see across Oldham, Manchester, and Rochdale on a clear day. Another highly-regarded spot is the Tandle Hill View Point, which offers sweeping vistas across Greater Manchester and is accessible via a gentle walk.

The region is full of well-loved spots for a good walk. Some of the most popular places include:

• Crompton Moor: A vast and popular expanse of moorland with numerous paths, a waterfall, and great views.
• Piethorne Valley: A beautiful valley with several reservoirs, offering scenic waterside walks.
• Tandle Hill Country Park: A large park with a mix of woodland and grassland, known for its accessible trails and viewpoint.

The terrain on Crompton Moor is varied. You'll find a mix of well-defined public footpaths, grassy tracks, and some rugged, uneven sections, particularly on the higher ground. After rain, parts of the moor can become boggy and muddy, so waterproof hiking boots with good grip are strongly recommended.

Yes, for a longer hike that takes in several of the area's reservoirs, the Pingot Quarry Waterfall – Piethorne Reservoir loop from Shaw and Crompton is a great option. This moderate route covers nearly 16 km and connects the sights of Crompton Moor with the scenic Piethorne Valley.