HUDDERSFIELD CANAL LOOP
This easygoing canal walk takes you to Manchester’s most famous ice cream parlour and breakfast spot
Start: Diggle Fields, Huddersfield Rd, Diggle, Oldham OL3 5PJ
Distance: 3.72 miles
Elevation: 125 feet
Duration: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Navigation: Follow step-by-step on komoot, or download GPX file
About the route
This flat, easygoing canal walk near Manchester is a true hidden gem, ideal for those days when you want to stretch your legs without too much effort. Starting in Diggle, the route takes you along the scenic Huddersfield Canal, offering peaceful waterside views and the perfect excuse to slow down.
Your first stop is the much-loved Grandpa Greene’s ice cream parlour, known for its delicious, handcrafted treats. And as you continue on to Uppermill, you’ll find Grandpa Greene's newest spot, making it a two-scoop adventure in one day! Uppermill itself is a lovely village, full of charm and character. It’s a great midway point on your walk and the perfect place to take a break and explore. With plenty of charming pubs, cafes, and shops, it’s an ideal spot to stop for a drink, grab a coffee, or even enjoy a hearty Sunday roast at one of the cosy local pubs before continuing your walk back to Diggle along the canal.
Route difficulty
Walk type: Easy circular walk
Walk highlights: Grandpa Green’s Ice Cream, Diggle Village
Route highlights
Grandpa Greene’s
Grandpa Greene’s is a hugely popular ice cream parlour in Diggle that has been delighting locals and visitors alike for over 80 years. Known for its award-winning ice cream made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including milk and cream from John Lancashire’s prize-winning cows, this charming spot offers a delightful dining experience with stunning views of the rolling hills.
And if this wasn’t enough, they’ve just opened a new spot in a former public toilet building in Uppermill. This transformation has resulted in Greene’s Bistro, featuring a stylish conservatory with a retractable roof and plenty of comfy booth seating overlooking King George V Park. It’s a dog-friendly and kid-friendly space, perfect for families, with delicious cocktails inspired by weekly musical nights. While Grandpa Greene’s is famous for its ice creams, the bistro also serves up fantastic lunches and brunches, including hearty beef brisket baguettes, loaded fries, and irresistible small plates.
Uppermill
Uppermill is a charming village nestled in the picturesque Saddleworth area of Greater Manchester. Located along the banks of the Huddersfield Narrow Canal, it offers a mix of scenic beauty and historical significance, with quaint shops, cafes, and traditional pubs lining its streets. The village is also known for its beautiful walking trails, making it a popular spot for hikers and families looking to explore the surrounding countryside. With events like the annual Saddleworth Whit Friday Brass Band Contest, Uppermill has a lively community spirit that attracts visitors year-round.
Options to extend the route
Fancy extending the route? Start in Greenfield, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Huddersfield Narrow Canal before heading towards Dove Stones Reservoir. Just a short distance away, Dove Stones is a stunning natural area perfect for walking, picnicking, or soaking up the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and moors. Our favourite is this challenging but rewarding circular walk to The Trinnacle.
Where is Diggle?
Diggle is a village located in the Saddleworth area of Greater Manchester, England. It lies in the Pennines, near the border with West Yorkshire, and is part of the Metropolitan Borough of Oldham. Diggle is situated close to the Peak District National Park and is one of several villages in Saddleworth, including Uppermill, Greenfield, and Dobcross. It’s approximately 17 miles northeast of Manchester city center and is known for its picturesque countryside and historical features like the Standedge Canal Tunnel.
Getting to the starting point
Arriving by car
We parked roadside on Huddersfield Road, Diggle, Oldham OL3 5PJ. You’ll also find a couple of car parks in Diggle Village.
Public transport
To get to Diggle from Manchester by public transport, take a train from Manchester Victoria or Piccadilly to Greenfield Station (20-30 minutes), then catch the 356 or 350 bus to Diggle (10-15 minutes). Alternatively, you can walk from Greenfield to Diggle which adds 2 miles each way.
✔️ Good to knows
Difficulty: This is a flat circular walk suitable for all levels of fitness.
Food and drink: You’ll pass wonderful country pub, The Cock and Pullet, which serves good food and has a wonderfully cosy atmosphere.
Parking: We parked roadside on Huddersfield Road, Diggle, Oldham OL3 5PJ.
🧭 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.
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