6 STUNNING PUB WALKS BY TRAIN NEAR MANCHESTER
Tired of the same old city walks? You don’t need a car to explore some of the most stunning trails near Manchester. From wild swimming at Gaddings Dam to breathtaking moorland views at The Trinnacle, these stunning pub walks are all easily accessible by train. Enjoy!
1. Gaddings Dam Loop (England’s Tallest Beach)
Start Point: Todmorden Centre (OL14 5QA)
Train from Manchester: 20 minutes from Manchester Victoria
Nestled above Todmorden, Gaddings Dam offers the rare experience of a hilltop beach. Perfect for a sunny day, this route offers wild swimming for the brave and scenic views for those who prefer to stay dry. After exploring the dam, you can extend your adventure to nearby Stoodley Pike, an iconic Pennine monument.
The Walk Details:
Distance: 5.34 miles
Duration: 2–3 hours
Elevation: 660 feet
Navigation: follow step-by-step here.
Post-walk, head back to Todmorden and treat yourself at The Golden Lion pub for a well-earned meal or pint.
2. New Mills Millennium Walkway (The Torrs Circular)
Start Point: New Mills Central Station
Train from Manchester: 20 minutes from Manchester Piccadilly
Discover the hidden gem of The Torrs, a dramatic river gorge beneath the historic town of New Mills. The highlight of this walk is the Millennium Walkway—a suspended bridge that winds along the River Goyt. With a mix of lush greenery and industrial history, this walk is short but packed with charm.
The Walk Details:
Distance: 4 miles
Duration: 1.5 hours
Elevation: 350 feet
Navigation: follow step-by-step here
After your walk, explore New Mills’ cafes and shops. Stop at Revive Cafe for a hearty lunch or pick up a treat at High Street Books & Records.
3. Hathersage and Stanage Edge
Start Point: Hathersage Station
Train from Manchester: 50 minutes from Manchester Piccadilly
A Peak District favorite, this walk starts in the idyllic village of Hathersage and leads to Stanage Edge and the popular Robin Hood’s Cave.
The Walk Details:
Distance: 7 miles
Duration: 3 hours
Elevation: 1,200 feet
Navigation: follow step-by-step here
After tackling the edge, head back to Hathersage where you’ll find pubs and cafes aplenty.
4. Macclesfield Forest & Shutlingsloe (The Cheshire Matterhorn)
Start Point: Macclesfield Station
Train from Manchester: 25 minutes from Manchester Piccadilly
Shutlingsloe, often called “The Cheshire Matterhorn,” is a sharp peak that rewards hikers with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. The trail starts in the peaceful Macclesfield Forest, winding through tranquil woods before the exhilarating climb to the summit.
The Walk Details:
Distance: 6 miles
Duration: 2–3 hours
Elevation: 1,200 feet
Navigation: follow step-by-step here
The route descends past picturesque reservoirs, offering perfect photo opportunities. Wrap up your walk with refreshments at The Leather’s Smithy, a charming pub on the forest's edge.
5. Solomon’s Temple Walk (A Historic Folly Above Buxton)
Start Point: Buxton Pavilion Gardens (SK17 6BE)
Train from Manchester: 1 hour from Manchester Piccadilly
This scenic walk to Solomon’s Temple combines history and natural beauty. The Victorian folly sits atop Grin Low Hill, offering stunning views of Buxton and beyond. On your way, explore the remnants of historic lime kilns and the surrounding woods.
The Walk Details:
Distance: 5.62 miles
Duration: 2 hours
Elevation: 625 feet
Navigation: follow step-by-step here
Finish your adventure with a visit to Buxton’s famous Georgian architecture or a relaxing tea at one of the town’s many cosy pubs.
6. The Trinnacle Loop (Dove Stone Reservoir)
Start Point: Greenfield Station
Train from Manchester: 35 minutes from Manchester Victoria
High on Saddleworth Moor, The Trinnacle stands as a unique rock formation overlooking Dove Stone Reservoir. The route offers steep climbs, cascading waterfalls, and a bit of optional scrambling for the adventurous.
The Walk Details:
Distance: 4.13 miles
Duration: Less than 2 hours
Elevation: 950 feet
Navigation: follow step-by-step here
For those driving, parking is available at Binn Green Car Park, but spaces fill quickly. Afterward, unwind with a pint at The Clarence Inn or explore the nearby pubs in Greenfield.
