One of my favourite places to recommend when visiting Manchester is Dovestone Reservoir. This beautiful piece of paradise is located on the edge of Oldham above the village of Greenfield, on Saddleworth Moor in Greater Manchester, and is at the edge of the Peak District.

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It is one of the most spectacular beauty spots near Manchester and is a popular place for walkers, hikers, runners and perfect for a family day out.

To be transparent here, there are a number of reservoirs. I am unsure of just how many and have only visited three times. With this being said, I can’t be too precise, therefore. I will only speak of the locations I visited. I still have a lot yet to discover here.

Main reservoir and surrounding areas

Down at the bottom is the main reservoir and plenty of beauty spots to have a picnic. If you don’t fancy walking around these spots alone, make it a worthwhile visit.

Yeoman Hey Reservoir

Yeoman Hey Reservoir circular walk is a steady, level, nice walk that is great for people of all ages, and anyone with a wheelchair or pram. The route offers scenic views of several reservoirs and stunning landscapes.

Just beyond Yeoman Hey there are parts that are a little rugged and a slightly inclined surface. However, the path remains.

You’ll start to come to some stunning overlooking views, as if you have had quite a hike when you really haven’t.

More advanced route for hikers

Chew Valley and Reservoir

Chew Valley can be reached through Dovestone Reservoir Car Park, walking by Dovestone Reservoir and the adjacent woodland, then taking the path route to the right. The climb will start from here.

The climb up is quite a challenging one, but the foot path makes it more manageable.

Just before the reservoir, you will reach Chew Valley and its incredible beauty.

Chew Valley reservoir is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places. The reservoir is in an elevated position and sits 1,600 feet above sea level with views of the moorlands and hills.

Useful information

Getting here

I will use Manchester City centre as the starting point

By Car: It’s around a 45 to 50 minute drive depending on traffic. There are two car parks which pay and display and cost £4 for the day. As with many places, you will have to arrive early to get a place. Other than this, there are plenty of street parking in the surrounding areas.

By Bus: Get the train to Greenfield Station, than the 350 bus from Greenfield Station to Dovestones. This route will take just over one hour and 30 minutes.

Another option is to take a bus, either the 84 or the 83 from Oldham Street in Piccadilly. Take the bus to Oldham Town Centre, then take the 350 bus to Dovestones. This journey will take around two hours (buy a day saver for £5.50).

Facilities

There are toilets here including a disability toilet (RADAR key required)

There are no shops here, although there is usually an Ice cream van located in the Dovestone car park.

There is also a sailing club

I hope you have enjoyed my blog today.

Thank you for visiting today

Stay blessed 🙏🏾

Natalie ❤