Saddleworth Edges

This twelve and a half mile walk offers excellent views from the edges of Saddleworth Moor, a scramble up Birchin Clough beside the waterfall, an opportunity to climb The Trinnacle, Ravenstones, plus a visit to the highest constructed reservoir in England, Chew, finally joining the Pennine Way at Laddow Rocks to finish at Crowden.

We alight the bus at the village of Greenfield, then make our way to Dovestone Reservoir Car Park (toilets available); followed by easy walking along the water’s edge, then onto Yeoman Hey & Greenfield Reservoirs. Owing to a late start to the walk, we will pause briefly at the Greenfield Dam for a 10 minute T break. Leaving Greenfield Reservoir the valley narrows as we follow the path alongside Greenfield Brook with imposing views to the right of The Trinnacle on the skyline.

We cross to the far bank of Birchin Clough and scramble up this delightful boulder strewn ravine, rock hopping amid scenes of cascading water; with the option to climb the waterfall. Once the Clough levels out we ford the stream and return to the edge where we are greeted by The Trinnacle!

This will be our lunchtime stop. Would-be climbers are welcome to attempt The Trinnacle, a perilously exposed pinnacle; but do so entirely at their own risk – spectacular photo opportunity!

After the break, survivors will continue along the edge path to Ashway Rocks followed by a gentle climb up the moor to Ashway Cross (Platt Memorial). The broad path contours round to the head of Dovestone Clough fording the stream above the upper cascades. The old beater’s trod returns us to the rocky edge above Dovestone Rocks with glorious views to heighten the pleasure.   

We then reach a prominent memorial cairn, overlooking Dovestone Reservoir – in memory of two climbers who lost their lives whilst descending Sella Tower, Italian Dolomites. Next up is Bramley’s Cot, an ingenious and sturdy dwelling thought to be a shepherd’s summer abode. 

Moving on we pass the Dish Stone and arrive at the Chew Reservoir at 1600ft (488m), built in 1912. This will be our afternoon stop. From Chew walkers will have a choice of routes:-

Main route to Crowden – continuing with the path along the south bank of Chew reservoir, crossing Laddow Moss to join the Pennine Way at Laddow Rocks (502m). Now heading SSE along the Pennine Way, the route then descends steeply, crossing Oakenclough Brook; with views throughout down to Crowden Great Brook far below, ending our walk at Crowden.

Easy, return route to Greenfield – initially via the reservoir service road, and then through Chew Piece Plantation – a memorial arboretum; continuing downhill toward the reservoir and return to the Greenfield village retracing the morning footsteps.

                                                                                                    David Coleman

Notes.

1. Toilets are available at the Dovestone Reservoir Car Park. Ice cream van normally in attendance!
2. Bus Departure Time will be 6.00pm from the access road to Crowden Car Park; 5.30pm from Greenfield.
3. Fine weather permitting, (remember July 2019!) we should be able to linger at the numerous points of interest & viewpoints along this walk. The weather on the day will very much determine the number & length of the “pit stops” which may in turn impact on the Bus Departure time from Crowden.
4. No facilities en-route, please bring your own food and drink.

As usual we are keen to welcome new walkers, there is no need to book, just turn up at your preferred pick-up bus stop. The fare is £14 payable on the return journey.

Coach Departure

The coach picks up at the following points.
(With the agreement of the leader other pick-up points
on the bus route may be available).

“Staff of Life” pub, Hack Lane	Sutton-in-Ashfield	9.15am
Priestic Road, opp McDonald’s	Sutton-in-Ashfield	9.20am
Eastfield Side, (Blue Bell)	Sutton-in-Ashfield	9.22am
Hermitage Lane stop, Sutton Road	Mansfield	9.25am
ASDA bus stop. Stockwell Gate.	Mansfield	9.30am