Oldham Way
Explore the scenic Oldham Way, a network of footpaths offering breathtaking Peak District landscapes, from reservoirs to rolling hills.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Oldham Way
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the scenic Oldham Way, a network of footpaths offering breathtaking Peak District landscapes, from reservoirs to rolling hills.
"Stunning views and challenging climbs make the Oldham Way a must-do for hikers."
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The terrain can be uneven; wear good hiking boots for comfort and safety on the Oldham Way.
📱 Download Offline Maps
Mobile signal is unreliable in parts of the Peak District. An offline map is essential for navigation.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dovestone Reservoir
Peak District National Park
Stunning reservoir with walking trails and panoramic views, perfect for a refreshing hike.
Chew Reservoir
Peak District National Park
A higher reservoir offering dramatic landscapes and a sense of wild beauty.
Chew Hills
Peak District National Park
Rolling hills providing challenging climbs and rewarding vistas over the surrounding countryside.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Oldham Way Adventure
Best Times for Oldham Way Walks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The terrain can be uneven; wear good hiking boots for comfort and safety on the Oldham Way.
📱 Download Offline Maps
Mobile signal is unreliable in parts of the Peak District. An offline map is essential for navigation.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Many sections are great for dogs, but always check local signage and keep them on a lead where required.
🌦️ Check the Weather
Peak District weather changes quickly. Be prepared for rain, wind, and sun, even on the same day.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The terrain can be uneven; wear good hiking boots for comfort and safety on the Oldham Way.
📱 Download Offline Maps
Mobile signal is unreliable in parts of the Peak District. An offline map is essential for navigation.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Many sections are great for dogs, but always check local signage and keep them on a lead where required.
🌦️ Check the Weather
Peak District weather changes quickly. Be prepared for rain, wind, and sun, even on the same day.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Oldham Way for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the reservoirs and rolling hills, offering a great escape into the Peak District. While the scenery is consistently lauded, some find navigation challenging due to the lack of consistent signage on certain sections.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Oldham Way is a circular route, so you can start at various points. A popular starting point is Dovestone Reservoir car park. Access is typically by car, with parking available at key trailheads. Public transport options might be limited, so check local bus routes if you're not driving.
Yes, parking is available at popular access points like Dovestone Reservoir. Arrive early, especially on weekends, as car parks can fill up quickly.
Public transport access can be challenging for some sections of the Oldham Way. It's best to check local bus timetables for routes that get you close to trailheads like Dovestone.
Dovestone Reservoir is a highly recommended starting point, offering access to beautiful scenery and connecting trails. Other points can be found along the route depending on your desired walk length.
While some sections might be passable, the Oldham Way is primarily a walking trail with varied terrain. Dedicated cycling routes are generally more suitable for bikes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Oldham Way is a public footpath and does not require tickets for entry. Access to the trails is free.
While the trails are free, parking at Dovestone Reservoir may incur a fee. Check local signage for current parking charges.
The Oldham Way is accessible at all times. However, it's advisable to plan your walks during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
Guided tours are not typically offered as a standard service for the Oldham Way. Many visitors prefer to explore independently using maps and guides.
There isn't a dedicated visitor center specifically for the Oldham Way. Information can often be found at local tourist information points or online resources for the Peak District.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The Oldham Way offers varied difficulty. Some sections, like those around Dovestone Reservoir, are relatively easy, while others involve steeper climbs over hills, making them more challenging.
The full Oldham Way is a long-distance path. Shorter circular walks can be created by linking sections, with routes like the one to Chew Reservoir taking around 3 miles.
Expect diverse landscapes including reservoirs, rolling hills, moorland, and woodlands. The views from higher points like Chew Hills are particularly spectacular.
Facilities are limited along the trail itself. Restrooms are typically available at popular starting points like Dovestone Reservoir car park.
Certain sections, particularly around Dovestone Reservoir, are suitable for families. However, some parts are more rugged and may be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Dovestone Reservoir offers beautiful reflections and varied landscapes. Higher points like Chew Hills provide panoramic views, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Early mornings and late afternoons, during the 'golden hours,' provide the most dramatic and flattering light for landscape photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or capturing reflections at the reservoirs.
Drone usage is often restricted in national parks and around reservoirs. Always check local bylaws and regulations before flying a drone.
Dramatic skies with clouds can add interest to photos. Misty mornings can create an atmospheric effect, especially around the reservoirs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For slightly older children who enjoy a bit more adventure, the walk towards Chew Reservoir offers a more challenging but rewarding experience. The climb up Chew Hills can be a fun challenge, and the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the reservoir is significant. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, and ensure children wear appropriate footwear.
🐶 Dog Owners
It's important to be mindful of other walkers and wildlife. Always keep your dog under control, especially in areas with livestock or nesting birds. Many sections require dogs to be on a lead, so always check local signage. Bringing extra water for your dog is also a good idea, especially on warmer days.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Oldham Way
Downloading an offline map of the area is highly recommended, as mobile phone signal can be intermittent, especially in the more remote parts of the Peak District. This ensures you can navigate safely even if you lose signal. Consider using apps like OS Maps or Komoot, which allow you to download maps for offline use.
When planning your route, consider the terrain. While some paths are well-maintained, others can be boggy or rocky, especially after rain. Always check the weather forecast before you set off, as conditions can change rapidly in the hills.
The Natural Beauty of the Route
Further along the route, you'll encounter Chew Reservoir, situated at a higher elevation. The journey to Chew Reservoir often involves climbing the Chew Hills, which provide a more rugged and wilder experience. From these higher vantage points, walkers are rewarded with expansive panoramas of the Peak District National Park, showcasing rolling moorlands and distant horizons.
The area is also rich in flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for various bird species, particularly around the reservoirs. The changing seasons bring different colours to the landscape, from the vibrant greens of spring and summer to the russet tones of autumn.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit