A place I have lived at, with great memories and a place that draws me back time and time again, Dove Stone Reservoir, Saddleworth.
On the outer edge of Oldham and Greater Manchester, above the village of Greenfield and nestled below the Pennines is this area of beauty that can be, and is, enjoyed by many.
You may or may not know I am an Oldham lad, aye!
From as young as I remember my dad took me on my first steps in nature and on hills at Dove Stones. Childhood adventures among the rocky outcrops, boulders and forests. It was no surprise that when I came back to the area 10 years ago I decided to live here a while.
It was here and out the door I trained for my climbs of Kilimanjaro and Aconcagua etc.
Any day of the week the path around the reservoir itself is full of people taking in fresh air in many ways. A huge favourite for dog walkers. This is where I first had the hounds Monty and Jasmine bless em. I go around with Bea now but each step filled with great memories of the walks around before.
You will also find cyclists, runners and families walking the circuit. Picnics taking place under the shade of a tree. The path around is wheelchair friendly and mainly flat, but assistance will be required on a couple of short inclines.
No matter what time of year it is the place can look spectacular! Winter on the hills above Dovestones can be invigorating for the mind.
For those that love to hike off there is plenty of height and miles in all directions, I love stepping every blade of grass and hill around and will save that for other posts, so much to show.
Dovestone is, after all, also known as the gateway to the Peak District.
One tip I must give… If it is a sunny day and a weekend or Bank Holiday… get there early! There are a couple of car parks and you can enjoy a great nature filled day out for just around £1 in parking fees. That is unless you want an ice-cream that can be bought in situ.
Another reason for visitors is the wildlife that frequent the area. Mountain hares can be seen together with a cast array of birds including Peregrine Falcons, Curlews, Mallards and so much more.
The RSPB now helps run the area together with United Utilities and I have seen a great deal of extra interest and awareness of the wildlife because of it. Great!
This is only a small glimpse into the area, and as I am currently back again near the area I shall be back out on those there Pennines, camera in hand, treading those miles and showing lots more from above. See you out there soon.
Other walks nearby
