Oldham Way - a one way street sign in front of a building
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Oldham Way

4.6
·491k reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore the scenic Oldham Way, a network of footpaths offering breathtaking Peak District landscapes, from reservoirs to rolling hills.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
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Oldham Way - a one way street sign in front of a building

Oldham Way

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the scenic Oldham Way, a network of footpaths offering breathtaking Peak District landscapes, from reservoirs to rolling hills.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Stunning views and challenging climbs make the Oldham Way a must-do for hikers."

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dovestone Reservoir

Dovestone Reservoir

Peak District National Park

Stunning reservoir with walking trails and panoramic views, perfect for a refreshing hike.

TikTok
Chew Reservoir

Chew Reservoir

Peak District National Park

A higher reservoir offering dramatic landscapes and a sense of wild beauty.

Instagram
Chew Hills

Chew Hills

Peak District National Park

Rolling hills providing challenging climbs and rewarding vistas over the surrounding countryside.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Oldham Way Adventure

The Oldham Way offers scenic routes, but check weather forecasts as conditions can change rapidly in the Peak District. Wear sturdy footwear for varied terrain and consider downloading an offline map, as mobile signal can be spotty. TikTok

Best Times for Oldham Way Walks

Early mornings or late afternoons offer beautiful light for photography and fewer crowds. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends, especially during peak hiking seasons. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Popular for day-trippers
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Rochdale AFC fans on the way to Oldham (A) from The Regal yesterday #01706
_01706_
70 likes • 2.5K views

🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key

The terrain can be uneven; wear good hiking boots for comfort and safety on the Oldham Way. Instagram

📱 Download Offline Maps

Mobile signal is unreliable in parts of the Peak District. An offline map is essential for navigation. TikTok

A Sunday walk starting out at Dovestone Reservoir then picking up the Oldham Way and back down Chew Brook. Another one from the Countryside Dog Walks Peak District North edition. . . . #AdventuresOnFourPaws #DogsWhoHike #Sunday #SundayWalk #PeakDistrict #PeakDistrictNationalPark #DovestoneReservoir #ChewBrook #BorderTerrier #BTPosse
thearchiebean
21 likes • 153 views
Weekend walks takes us to Dovestone and Chew reservoirs. We started our walk from the Dovestone Reservoir car park and followed the Oldham Way over the Chew Hills to reach the reservoir. It’s about a 3 mile walk to the reservoir, passing Dovestone Reservoir and the memorial woodland before climbing to Chew Reservoir. You will need your comfiest walking boots as its quite a big climb with the reser...
wastelessspendless50
26 likes • 209 views

🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails

Many sections are great for dogs, but always check local signage and keep them on a lead where required. Instagram

🌦️ Check the Weather

Peak District weather changes quickly. Be prepared for rain, wind, and sun, even on the same day. TikTok

Henry Marcum | Oldham County PF couldn’t be stopped vs. South Oldham in Districts! All-District Team 🏆 @_henrymarcum @oldhamcombb • • DeadStock Way🌡️
deadstock_visuals
697 likes • 22.2K views

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. Instagram

📱 Download Offline Maps

Mobile signal is unreliable in parts of the Peak District. An offline map is essential for navigation. TikTok

🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails

Many sections are great for dogs, but always check local signage and keep them on a lead where required. Instagram

🌦️ Check the Weather

Peak District weather changes quickly. Be prepared for rain, wind, and sun, even on the same day. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

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

Beautiful reservoir views
Challenging hill climbs
Peaceful natural scenery

What People Dislike

Inconsistent signage
Can be boggy

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. Instagram

Yes, parking is available at popular access points like Dovestone Reservoir. Arrive early, especially on weekends, as car parks can fill up quickly. Instagram

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

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. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Oldham Way is a public footpath and does not require tickets for entry. Access to the trails is free. Instagram

While the trails are free, parking at Dovestone Reservoir may incur a fee. Check local signage for current parking charges. Instagram

The Oldham Way is accessible at all times. However, it's advisable to plan your walks during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment. Instagram

Guided tours are not typically offered as a standard service for the Oldham Way. Many visitors prefer to explore independently using maps and guides. TikTok

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. Instagram

🎫 🚶 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

Expect diverse landscapes including reservoirs, rolling hills, moorland, and woodlands. The views from higher points like Chew Hills are particularly spectacular. Instagram

Facilities are limited along the trail itself. Restrooms are typically available at popular starting points like Dovestone Reservoir car park. Instagram

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. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography Tips

Dovestone Reservoir offers beautiful reflections and varied landscapes. Higher points like Chew Hills provide panoramic views, especially during sunrise or sunset. Instagram

Early mornings and late afternoons, during the 'golden hours,' provide the most dramatic and flattering light for landscape photography. Instagram

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. Instagram

Drone usage is often restricted in national parks and around reservoirs. Always check local bylaws and regulations before flying a drone. Instagram

Dramatic skies with clouds can add interest to photos. Misty mornings can create an atmospheric effect, especially around the reservoirs. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The sections of the Oldham Way around Dovestone Reservoir are ideal for families. The paths are generally well-maintained and relatively flat, making them suitable for pushchairs and young children. The reservoir itself is a fascinating feature for kids, and there's plenty of space to explore and have a picnic. Instagram

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. Instagram

🐶 Dog Owners

The Oldham Way is a fantastic destination for dog owners, with many sections offering excellent walking opportunities for your canine companions. Dovestone Reservoir and the surrounding trails are particularly popular with dog walkers. Instagram

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. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Oldham Way

The Oldham Way is a network of footpaths, not a single, clearly marked linear trail in the traditional sense. While some sections might have waymarkers, it's crucial to have a reliable map and compass or a GPS device. Many visitors create their own circular walks by combining sections of the Oldham Way with other local paths. Popular routes often start and end at Dovestone Reservoir, offering a good introduction to the area's beauty. Instagram

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

The Natural Beauty of the Route

The Oldham Way traverses some of the most picturesque parts of the region, offering a diverse range of natural landscapes. A significant highlight is Dovestone Reservoir, a popular spot known for its clear waters and surrounding hills. The reservoir itself is a beautiful feature, and the walking paths around it are generally accessible and offer stunning views. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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