Top 12 Natural Monuments around Oldham
Best natural monuments around Oldham are found on the edge of the Peak District National Park, offering a landscape characterized by moorland, gritstone formations, and reservoirs. This region provides insights into ancient geological processes and features a diverse natural heritage. The area is known for its unique rock formations and significant historical discoveries, such as a Carboniferous period fossil forest. Oldham's natural environment provides varied opportunities for outdoor exploration.
Best natural monuments around Oldham
- The most popular natural monuments is Dovestone Reservoir, a lake situated where the Greenfield and Chew Brooks valleys meet. This reservoir is a popular walking trail and can be combined with other reservoirs for longer routes.
- Another must-see spot is The Trinnacle, a challenging viewpoint. This three-pronged gritstone pillar offers panoramic views of the Saddleworth Moors and the reservoirs below.
- Visitors also love Pots and Pans, a natural monument featuring large indentations on a gritstone rock. This site provides fine panoramic views over Saddleworth and across to Manchester.
- Oldham is known for its reservoirs, unique gritstone rock formations, and waterfalls. The area offers a variety of natural monuments to see and explore, from high moorland summits to valley features.
- The natural monuments around Oldham are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 600 upvotes and over 130 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 1, 2026
Dovestone Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
The reservoir is located at the gateway to the iconic Peak District National Park and is a truly breathtaking location, oozing peace and serenity.
Tip by
Black Chew Head Summit Cairn
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
The Trinnacle
Highlight • Viewpoint
The pillar and access to it is severely exposed, which means that a fall here would result in a very serious or fatal injury. Ask yourself if it is worth risking your life, or those who may attempt to rescue you - for a photo?
The trails leading to the Trinnacle are steep, slippery, boggy and feature rocky terrain throughout with sections of exposed scrambling. In particular, the scramble segment alongside Birchen Clough / Greenfield Waterfall has taken several people by surprise over the years, resulting in many accidents.
Be aware that weather conditions can change very quickly and this can greatly increase the hazards encountered. Appropriate footwear, clothing and the ability to objectively assess conditions and your own abilities are advised.
More information from Oldham Mountain Rescue Team: omrt.org/news
Tip by
Birchen Clough Waterfall
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Birchen Clough Waterfall and The Trinnacle
Highlight (Segment) • Climb
The pillar and access to it is severely exposed, which means that a fall here would result in a very serious or fatal injury. Ask yourself if it is worth risking your life, or those who may attempt to rescue you - for a photo?
The trails leading to the Trinnacle are steep, slippery, boggy and feature rocky terrain throughout with sections of exposed scrambling. In particular, the scramble segment alongside Birchen Clough / Greenfield Waterfall has taken several people by surprise over the years, resulting in many accidents.
Be aware that weather conditions can change very quickly and this can greatly increase the hazards encountered. Appropriate footwear, clothing and the ability to objectively assess conditions and your own abilities are advised.
More information from Oldham Mountain Rescue Team: omrt.org/news
Tip by
Pots and Pans War Memorial
Highlight • Monument
Pots and Pans is also known locally as the ‘Druids stone’ with the pots and pans-shaped bowls in the top rumoured to have been used to catch the blood from human sacrifices. Legend also has it that water collected from these bowls can cure eye diseases.
Though the geologists don’t agree, the boulders and rocks you’ll see littering the hills above Uppermill and Greenfield are actually the remnants of a mighty battle between two Saddleworth giants called Alphin and Alder.
The giants lived across from each other on the two hills that mark the entrance to the Upper Tame Valley – Aldermans Hill and Alphin Pike. Sadly their friendship dissolved over their rivalry for the love of a beautiful water nymph called Rimon who lived in Chew Brook down in the valley below.
Rimon took a fancy to Alphin, and as is the way with giant/water nymph love triangles – a fierce fight ensued that saw the two giants casting enormous boulders at each other across the valley from their respective hillside homes.
Alphin lost, (he is buried near Giants Rock on Greenfield Moor), and Rimon, distraught, threw herself to her death from the top of the hill. The Pots and Pans Stone is one of the reminders of that ferocious battle.
Tip by
Alphin Pike summit and trig point
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Kinder Stones
Highlight • Natural
The stones stand in an elevated position overlooking the beautiful Peak District National Park.
Tip by
Greenfield Brook Waterfalls
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Alderman's Hill Summit
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more natural monuments around Oldham.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Oldham
#WalkHome2020 — Sheffield to Cockermouth in 15 days
Pennine Way – Take on England's ultimate long-distance hike
Rugged moorland, scenic hilltops and urban canals – Oldham Way
Hiking around Oldham
Running Trails around Oldham
Road Cycling Routes around Oldham
Cycling around Oldham
MTB Trails around Oldham
Gravel biking around Oldham
Mountain Hikes around Oldham
Other adventures around Oldham
Tips from the Community
That Birchen Clough Waterfall scramble looks like a fantastic challenge, especially with the detour! It’s the perfect spot for a bit of adventure after a long week. I actually spent my downtime yesterday playing at https://123games.io while planning my next hike, and now I’m definitely adding this Peak District loop to the list!
0
0
This is a very rewarding walk. Three or so tops with views that are different at each one. Easy way finding and there’s a bench for a quick stop at the war memorial
0
0
These monuments, which carry the memory of the victims of war from one generation to the next, are most commonly found in towns and villages, often near churches or other central locations. A "war memorial" located in the open countryside, as here, is comparatively rare. Regardless of nationality or language, however, it is always a testimony to the horrors of war and tyranny—still significant and relevant even so many decades later. They all therefore serve two essential functions: -1- To commemorate and remember the victims -2- To remind us of the need to maintain peace
0
0
Nice and easy walk around the reservoir. Great to stretch your legs. Plenty of options to make it harder or longer by climbing up the hills.
0
0
This time of year it can be very boggy and muddy and very deep up on top so make sure to wear suitable footwhere/clothing. I’d recommend boots and gaiters.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular walking trails around Oldham's natural monuments?
The area around Oldham, particularly near the Peak District National Park, offers numerous walking trails. A very popular option is the path around Dovestone Reservoir, which can be combined with other reservoirs for longer routes. For more challenging hikes, the trails leading to The Trinnacle involve steep and rocky terrain but reward with stunning views. You can find various hiking options, including waterfall hikes, by exploring the waterfall hikes around Oldham guide.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments to visit in Oldham?
Yes, Dovestone Reservoir is an excellent family-friendly destination. It features easy, surfaced paths suitable for leisurely strolls, birdwatching, and enjoying the picturesque moorland scenery. The area is managed by the RSPB and partners, making it a great spot for nature observation with children.
Which natural monuments offer the best panoramic views in the Oldham area?
For breathtaking panoramic views, The Trinnacle, a distinctive gritstone formation, offers some of the best vistas of the Saddleworth Moors and the reservoirs below. Another excellent spot is Pots and Pans, located at the top of Aldermans Hill, which provides fine views over Saddleworth and across to Manchester. Dovestone Edge also provides stunning clifftop views over Dovestone and Yeoman Hay reservoirs.
Can I find challenging hikes among Oldham's natural monuments?
Absolutely. The route to The Trinnacle is considered challenging, requiring a strenuous 2-3 hour return hike over steep, boggy, and rocky terrain. The ascent to Black Chew Head, the highest point in Greater Manchester, also offers an adventurous objective with various routes, some of which are quite demanding. Additionally, the Birchen Clough Waterfall involves scrambling over rocks and navigating multiple cascades, making it popular for those seeking an adventurous hike.
What unique geological features can be found in Oldham's natural monuments?
Oldham is rich in unique geological features. The region is known for its dramatic gritstone formations, such as The Trinnacle and Pots and Pans, where natural circular indentations have been worn into the rock over millions of years. Historically, Oldham is also significant for the discovery of a 'fossil forest' from the Carboniferous period, dating back approximately 300 million years, illustrating the area's ancient tropical wetland past.
What is the best time of year to visit Dovestone Reservoir and other natural monuments?
The natural monuments around Oldham, including Dovestone Reservoir, can be enjoyed any time of year and in various weather conditions. Each season offers a different perspective of the landscape. Spring and summer are ideal for longer walks and enjoying lush greenery, while autumn brings vibrant colors to the moorland. Winter can offer dramatic, stark beauty, especially after snowfall, though conditions on higher ground can be challenging.
Are there any natural monuments in Oldham with historical significance?
Yes, several natural monuments in Oldham have historical connections. Pots and Pans, a gritstone rock formation, is located near a war memorial obelisk, making it a site of both natural beauty and historical remembrance. Yeoman Hey Reservoir, part of the Dovestone complex, features a commemorative stone laid by the King of Tonga in 1981. The legacy of Oldham's ancient 'fossil forest' also highlights the region's deep geological history.
What kind of wildlife can I spot around Saddleworth's natural monuments?
The moorland and reservoir areas around Saddleworth are havens for diverse wildlife. Dovestone Reservoir, managed by the RSPB, is particularly noted for birdwatching, attracting a variety of bird species. The surrounding moorlands are home to typical upland wildlife, offering opportunities for nature observation.
Are there cycling or gravel biking routes near Oldham's natural monuments?
Yes, the Oldham area offers various cycling and gravel biking opportunities. You can explore routes like the Rochdale Canal or the Huddersfield Narrow Canal. For gravel biking, options include the Saddleworth Rail Trail or routes around the Standedge Tunnel. More details can be found in the cycling around Oldham guide and the gravel biking around Oldham guide.
Where can I find waterfalls among the natural monuments near Oldham?
The Chew Valley is home to the Birchen Clough Waterfall, which is often encountered on the challenging route to The Trinnacle. This clough features multiple cascades and is most impressive after heavy rainfall. Additionally, the Greenfield Brook Waterfalls also offer scenic views. For more waterfall adventures, check out the waterfall hikes around Oldham guide.
Are there any accessible natural monuments for visitors with mobility considerations?
Dovestone Reservoir offers easy, surfaced paths around the water, making it more accessible for visitors. While many of the natural monuments involve moorland terrain, the main paths around Dovestone are generally suitable for those seeking less strenuous options.
What is the highest point in Greater Manchester that I can visit as a natural monument?
The highest point in Greater Manchester and the Oldham Unitary Authority is Black Chew Head, standing at 542 meters (1,778 feet) above sea level. It's located on the moorland within Saddleworth and offers an excellent objective for an adventure in the High Peak area, accessible via various routes, with the Pennine Way passing close by.
Are there any hidden gem natural monuments in the Oldham area worth exploring?
While not entirely 'hidden,' the interconnected Yeoman Hey Reservoir, adjacent to Dovestone, offers a slightly quieter experience with its own unique charm, including a commemorative stone. For those willing to venture off the main paths, exploring the gritstone outcrops and less-frequented sections of the moorland around Black Chew Head can reveal secluded spots and dramatic views away from the more popular trails.
Most popular routes around Oldham
Most popular attractions around Oldham
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Find even more amazing natural monuments around Oldham by checking out the top Highlights region by region:
Explore more
Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Oldham:
