4.5
(2059)
12,856
hikers
31
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Charlesworth offer access to the diverse terrain on the fringe of the Peak District National Park. The region is characterized by expansive moorlands, rolling hills, and valleys carved by rivers like the Etherow. Gritstone edges are a prominent feature, providing dramatic scenery and viewpoints. The landscape also includes reservoirs such as Valehouse, Bottoms, and Torside, adding varied scenic elements to routes.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
4.6
(176)
1,092
hikers
6.04km
01:40
110m
110m
Embark on an easy hike through the expansive peat bogs and moorland of Bleaklow, offering wide-open views towards Manchester and Black Hill. This 3.8-mile (6.0 km) loop involves a gentle climb of 352 feet (107 metres), taking about 1 hour and 40 minutes to complete. As you traverse the exposed landscape, you'll feel the raw, wild atmosphere of the Peak District. The route leads you to the poignant B-29 Superfortress 'Over Exposed' Crash Site, where scattered wreckage serves as a powerful reminder of history.
Prepare for exposed moorland conditions on this trail; there's no shade, and the weather can shift quickly, sometimes experiencing all four seasons in a single day. Poor visibility is a common occurrence, so make sure you have sturdy footwear and basic navigation skills, including a map and compass. Parking at Snake Pass Summit can be limited, especially on weekends, so an early start is a good idea to secure a spot. Note that there are no public facilities at the trailhead.
This trail offers a unique journey through history and nature, combining the solemnity of the B-29 crash site with the natural beauty of the Peak District. You can also reach the Higher Shelf Stones Summit and Trig Point for wide-ranging vistas, and discover Hern Clough, a small waterfall, along the way. It's a distinctive experience across the vast moorland, setting it apart from other hikes in the region.
4.5
(59)
306
hikers
16.6km
04:55
480m
480m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.5
(22)
147
hikers
12.1km
03:26
270m
270m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(35)
224
hikers
9.61km
03:02
370m
370m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(27)
159
hikers
13.9km
03:41
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Quite boggy in some bits up to the peak, was relatively fine due to the ground being icy but take care.
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This is one of the aid stations for the 2025 komoot Hiking Rally. Participants who need to leave the trail for any reason will have the opportunity to do so here. It will also be an opportunity to stop and refuel before the hike across Bleaklow.
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Start of the journey up to view the B29 crash site.
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On the way back down from the crash site this is a lovely view of the river.
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can be boggy most of the year
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Valehouse Reservoir is a serene location, perfect for those seeking a quiet walk or a moment of reflection. The surrounding landscape provides beautiful views, and the reservoir itself is a haven for wildlife. The reservoir, along with the nearby Bottoms Reservoir, plays a vital role in the water supply for the surrounding areas, this is part of the Longdendale Chain of reservoirs. It is worth noting that the reservoirs were constructed in the 19th century, reflecting the industrial growth of the region and the need for reliable water resources.
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There are over 30 hiking routes around Charlesworth that are easily accessible from local bus stations. These trails offer a diverse range of experiences, including 6 easy, 20 moderate, and 6 difficult options, catering to various fitness levels and preferences.
The trails around Charlesworth, situated on the fringe of the Peak District, feature diverse terrain. You'll encounter expansive moorlands, rolling hills, and deep valleys. Gritstone edges are a prominent feature, offering dramatic scenery. Some routes may include varied surfaces, from well-trodden paths to more rugged moorland sections.
Yes, several routes offer glimpses into the area's history. For instance, the B-29 Overexposed Plane Crash Site loop from Pennine Way takes you to the poignant site of a US Air Force Boeing RB29A Superfortress that crashed in 1948 near Higher Shelf Stones. The wider region also features ancient monuments like a Bronze Age round cairn and Robin Hood's Picking Rods.
Absolutely. Many trails offer stunning vistas. The area is known for its dramatic gritstone edges and panoramic views. For example, routes around Coombes Edge provide excellent views over Charlesworth village and, on clear days, extend to Manchester city centre. You can also find routes leading to prominent peaks like Higher Shelf Stones and Bleaklow Head, offering extensive views across the Peak District.
While Charlesworth itself doesn't have major waterfalls directly at bus stops, the wider region offers several beautiful natural features. You can explore highlights like Birchen Clough Waterfall or the scenic Grindsbrook Clough, which are part of the broader network of trails in the Peak District accessible via public transport connections.
The best time to hike largely depends on your preference. Spring and summer offer vibrant landscapes and generally milder weather, ideal for enjoying the moorlands and valleys. Autumn brings beautiful colours to the foliage. Winter walks are possible, especially on lower-level routes, but require appropriate gear due to potentially challenging conditions on higher ground.
Yes, for those seeking more demanding treks, Charlesworth offers access to several challenging routes. The Higher Shelf Stones trig point – Bleaklow Head loop from Snake Pass is a longer, more strenuous option, covering over 16 km with significant elevation gain. Another challenging route is the Lower Shelf Stones – Higher Shelf Stones trig point loop from Snake Pass, which leads through moorland.
The komoot community highly rates the trails around Charlesworth, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from expansive moorlands to dramatic gritstone edges, and the sense of tranquility found on many routes. The accessibility from bus stations is also frequently highlighted as a major convenience.
Yes, Charlesworth is a great starting point for circular walks. The region research indicates several circular routes, such as an approximately eight-mile loop exploring Coombes Edge and Cown Edge, descending through farmland and woodland before returning to Charlesworth. Another popular circular ramble takes walkers to Lantern Pike, offering panoramic views.
Yes, the landscape around Charlesworth is dotted with several reservoirs that add varied scenic elements to hiking routes. Trails in the area may lead you past reservoirs such as Valehouse, Bottoms, and Torside, offering tranquil waterside views and opportunities for peaceful strolls.
Definitely. The region features notable mountain passes and high points. For example, Hollins Cross is a mountain pass providing spectacular panoramic views, especially along the Great Ridge. Routes like the Hern Clough – Bleaklow Head loop from Snake Pass will take you to higher elevations, offering expansive vistas across the Peak District.
While popular spots can attract visitors, the extensive network of trails around Charlesworth and the wider Peak District means it's often possible to find quieter paths, especially on weekdays or by exploring some of the moderate to difficult routes. The sheer number of options (over 30 routes) allows for spreading out and discovering more secluded sections of the landscape.


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