Manchester Weekend Walkers lead public transport walks into fantastic countryside all year round.
Train-based walk
Leader: Imelda
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 Hathersage. The train operates via Stockport and Hazel Grove instead of the usual route via Reddish North, Brinnington, Bredbury, Romiley, Marple and New Mills Central.
Transport to Walk Start: 09:48 train from Manchester Piccadilly (final destination Sheffield).
Suggested Ticket: Off-Peak Day Return to Hathersage £14.40. It is also worth checking advance single fares, which at the time of writing, are available for around £5 each way.
Walk Start: Hathersage railway station at 10:50.
Waypoints: Carr Head, Leveret Croft, Carrhead Rocks, Robin Hood's Cave, Upper Burbage Bridge, Higger Tor, Hathersage Moor, Bolehill Quarry, Greenwood Farm.
Return Services: x:32 until 21:32, then last train at 22:42.
Extra: Public toilets 10 minutes into walk in Hathersage, but use toilets on train if possible. No toilets en route. Optional pub visit at the end of the walk.
We begin this walk in the reverse direction that I normally take, so we pass through Hathersage town first, but are soon making our way alongside a rippling stream, then ascending to farmland and woods as we begin a day of walking over varied terrains with great views. There may be some boggy patches over the moor so boots are advised.
It makes the most of a long day to go all the way out to the Peak District where there are higher peaks and more challenging walking. This route involves two significant ascents and descents and is not for beginners. There may also be a small bit of rock clambering as we come down from Higger Tor. It is a beautiful area scattered with millstones, interesting rock formations and magnificent views.
There are stiles, footbridges and doorways!
