So close to Rochdale yet the Upper Naden Valley is in deepest countryside. Disturbed only by circling windmills on the surrounding high moors, this sheltered valley makes a good walk at any time of the year with easy paths, though you'll notice the steps. Perhaps that explains why there were a lot of people at the dam, but not many at the far end of the valley. Still it's much better than going to the gym!
LOCATION: 3 miles west of Rochdale
START: Naden, turn off A680 by White Lion. Roadside parking at road end by green metal fence
Grid ref: SD853152 Postcode: OL127TQ
DISTANCE: 4.5 (3.5 or 2.5) miles
GRADE: Easy, but lots of steps
TIME: 2.5 hours
MAP: Explorer OL - South Pennines Landranger 109
REFRESHMENTS: Pack a flask
EN ROUTE: Scout Moor, Wind Turbines, Greenbooth Reservoir
This walk was originally published by
The Manchester Evening News