EASY WALK NEAR MANCHESTER: HEALEY DELL
This scenic and historic walk near Manchester is steeped in myth and offers stunning natural beauty
Start: Healey Dell Nature Reserve, Rochdale, OL12 6LW
Distance: 4 miles
Elevation: 375 feet
Duration: Less than 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Navigation: Follow step-by-step on komoot, or download GPX file
About the route
Looking for an easy yet breathtaking walk near Manchester? This 4-mile circular route through Healey Dell Nature Reserve offers a perfect mix of history, legend, and natural beauty (and a stunning tea room where you can grab a proper brew, for good measure). With gentle elevation and well-maintained paths, it’s a great one to save if you’re seeking a peaceful escape from the city without a strenuous climb.
From the enchanting Fairies Chapel and stunning Healey Dell Waterfalls to the historic Prickshaw Village and the welcoming Healey Dell Heritage Tea Rooms, this walk is a true hidden gem. You’ll also join parts of the Rossendale Way and Mary Towneley Loop, so there’s plenty of options to extend the route if you’re looking for a longer day out.
Route difficulty
Walk type: Easy circular walk with minimal elevation gain.
Terrain: Well-defined paths, mostly even but with some uneven sections.
Accessibility: Not suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs.
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Route highlights
Healey Dell Nature Reserve
Once a 19th-century industrial area, this now-thriving nature reserve is known for its lush woodland, dramatic gorges, and rich wildlife. Keep an eye out for rare birds, and remnants of the old railway that once passed through the reserve.
Fairies Chapel
This mystical rock formation, nestled deep within the reserve, is steeped in legend. According to folklore, it was once a sacred site for fairies and spirits. The atmospheric setting, with moss-covered stone and trickling water, makes it easy to see why.
Healey Dell Waterfalls
One of the main attractions of the walk, these cascading waterfalls provide a serene and photogenic stop along the route.
Healey Dell Heritage Tea Rooms
A must-visit! This charming, vintage-style tea room is housed in an old mill building and offers delicious homemade treats, perfect for a mid-walk break.
Prickshaw Village
A hidden gem along the route, this well-preserved 17th-century hamlet feels like a step back in time. With its cobbled streets and traditional stone cottages, it’s a fascinating glimpse into Rochdale’s history.
Rossendale Way & Mary Towneley Loop
Sections of this walk overlap with two renowned long-distance trails. If you’re feeling adventurous, these trails offer fantastic opportunities for extending your route beyond Healey Dell.
Is this route for me?
Unlike more strenuous routes nearby, this walk is ideal for families, beginners, and those wanting a scenic yet manageable walk. It’s also dog-friendly (on leads), so it’s a great one to save for a day out with the little ones and pooches.
Options to extend the route / things to do nearby
If you’re looking to make a full day of it, take a look at these longer options nearby:
Explore the Rossendale Way: Follow this scenic trail deeper into the Rossendale Valley.
Mary Towneley Loop: Extend your hike along this picturesque long-distance route, offering stunning Pennine landscapes.
Hollingworth Lake: A beautiful reservoir just a short drive away, perfect for waterside strolls and picnics.
Healey Stones & Knowl Hill: A slightly more challenging hike nearby, offering panoramic views over Rochdale and beyond.
Blackstone Edge: A dramatic gritstone escarpment on the Pennine Way, ideal for those looking for a longer adventure.
Getting to the starting point
By Car:
Use the postcode OL12 6LW for Healey Dell Nature Reserve car park. Parking is limited, so arriving early is recommended.
By Public Transport:
Rochdale is well-connected by train and bus. The nearest station is Rochdale Railway Station, with buses running regularly to Healey Dell.
✔️ Good to knows
Difficulty: Easy with gentle elevation gain.
Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof boots recommended, especially after rain.
Dog-Friendly: Dogs are welcome but should be kept on leads near wildlife.
Food & Drink: The Healey Dell Heritage Tea Rooms offer fantastic refreshments. Rochdale also has great pubs and cafes for post-walk dining.
🧭 Following the route
I use komoot and OS Maps for offline navigation. To follow this walk step-by-step on komoot, simply click this link here or download the GPX file and upload it to your chosen app, such as OS Maps.
Final thoughts
This easy walk near Manchester is a hidden gem packed with history, legend, and stunning scenery. Whether you’re drawn to the mystical stories of Fairies Chapel, the industrial past of Healey Dell, or simply want to enjoy a peaceful riverside walk with a cracking tea room stop off, this route has something for everyone.
Finding hidden gems like this buried within the city is a good reminder you never have to travel far to reconnect with nature, and this route has quickly become one of the best walks near Manchester for me.
