Manchester Weekend Walkers lead public transport walks into fantastic countryside all year round.
The walk starts from Furness Vale Railway Station, before we immediately walk down to the Goyt Way alongside the tranquil Peak Forest Canal. Walking southwards for less than one mile, we then cross Buxton Road, then cross a few fields, pass by several old farms and gradually ascend to Hawkhurst Head. After a drinking water stone on the top, we turn left into a scenic footpath on the south side of Black Hill where we approach Higher Moor. From Lantern Wood, on our way back, we aim for Black Rocks at the summit of Black Hill. We then follow a pleasant path descending towards Kiln Knoll not long before we finish our walk.
Train-based walk
Leader: Annie
Ascent: 400 metres
Transport to Walk Start: 09:51 train (final destination Buxton) from Manchester Piccadilly station.
Meet Point: Near the ticket barriers, or on the platform at Piccadilly Station. Alternatively, meet the group on the train or at the station in Furness Vale.
Suggested Ticket: Off Peak Day Return to Furness Vale £9.40.
Walk Start: Furness Vale Station at 10:30.
Waypoints: Peak Forest Canal, Hawkhurst Head, Black Hill, Lantern Wood, Bollinghurst Brook, Mudhurst Lane, Black Rocks, Red Moor Farm, Kiln Knoll.
Return Services: x:35/36 from 16:35 until 22:35. Also trains at 16:08, 17:08, 18:07, 19:07, 23:19.
Extra: No toilets at walk start or en route. Drivers please note there is no station car park at Furness Vale, so please leave extra time to find parking in the area and walk to the walk start. There is a tram strike on this day, so there will be no trams to get you into Manchester to connect with the train. The walk is mostly exposed in hills and fields, so please bring plenty of water for a summer walking day. At the end there will be optional drinks at The Crossings, a pub just next to the railway station.
