Embark on a journey through the captivating terrain that envelops Oldham, a charming town nestled within the breathtaking Pennine range in Greater Manchester.

This 40-mile (64 km) circular route unveils a trove of natural wonders as it weaves up and down the landscape surrounding Oldham. Over four stages, you’ll explore spectacular scenery – from meandering canals and tranquil reservoirs to cascading waterfalls and enchanting weirs.

As you ascend to hilltop vantage points such as Standedge and Hartshead Pike, astonishing panoramas will unfold before your eyes. You’ll enjoy sweeping vistas that stretch towards the iconic Peak District National Park and Yorkshire Dales, even reaching the distant silhouette of the magnificent Welsh mountains.

Your journey begins at Dove Stone Reservoir, cradled between the picturesque valleys of Greenfield and Chew Brooks. Wasting no time, it kicks off with an exhilarating ascent up Saddleworth Moor, which reaches 1,500 feet (457 m) and boasts incredible views of the surrounding Pennine Hills.

Meandering onward, you'll venture towards the villages of Diggle and Castleshaw Moor, treated to the delightful sight of charming waterfalls along the way before skirting the northern reaches of Shaw and Royton, leading you to Rochdale Canal.

A new chapter then unfolds as you join the Medlock Valley, guiding you through the pretty locations of Daisy Nook and Park Bridge. To finish it all off, you’ll endure a momentous climb over Hartshead Pike, where you'll be rewarded with sweeping vistas that capture the essence of the journey thus far. Finally, a scenic descent leads you back through Chew Valley, where Dove Stone Reservoir awaits your arrival.

The first and last stages of your journey gain the most elevation, and will be the most challenging, however fear not, as they are well within the capabilities of any avid hiker. The journey is designed to be achieveable to all, ensuring a fulfilling experience for both seasoned adventurers and those new to multi-day trails.

I’d recommend some sturdy boats for the sometimes uneven and boggy ground, and a waterproof too, as expected with any British hike.

Each stage commences and concludes in areas that boast a range of accommodation options or convenient access to public transport. The circular nature of this route is an added advantage, as it keeps you in close proximity to the town of Oldham throughout. This means that you have the flexibility to conveniently dip in and out of the town at the start and end of each day.

To access the starting point at Dove Stone Reservoir using public transport, you can board the 350 bus from Oldham Bus Station, which will take you to the Clarence Hotel in Greenfield. From there, you have two options: you can either begin the route directly from the Clarence Hotel, or you can take a short walk of a few hundred metres east to reach the official starting point.