Scout Moor from Ashworth Moor Reservoir

Starting from the car park at Ashworth Moor Reservoir, just off Edenfield Road (A680) near Norden, Greater Manchester, this 7 km (about 4.3 miles) loop offers a blend of open moorland, wind farm vistas, and sweeping Pennine views. The trailhead is easily accessible by car, with parking available at the reservoir. For those using public transport, the closest major hub is Rochdale; from there, local buses run towards Norden and Edenfield Road, with a short walk to the reservoir.

Initial Ascent and Moorland Views
The route begins with a gentle climb, gaining around 200 metres (about 650 feet) in elevation as you ascend from the reservoir’s edge onto Scout Moor. Early on, you’ll pass the Ashworth Moor Reservoir dam, a popular spot for birdwatching—look for curlews, lapwings, and occasionally kestrels hovering above the grassland. The path is well-trodden but can be boggy after rain, so waterproof boots are recommended.

Scout Moor Wind Farm and Open Landscapes
At roughly 2 km (1.2 miles) in, the landscape opens up to reveal the Scout Moor Wind Farm, one of the largest onshore wind farms in England. The turbines are an impressive sight, and the area around them is often alive with skylarks and meadow pipits. The wind farm sits atop the moor, and the trail skirts several turbines, offering panoramic views across Greater Manchester and towards the West Pennine Moors.

Historical and Natural Highlights
Scout Moor itself is steeped in history, with evidence of Bronze Age cairns and old boundary stones scattered across the moorland. At about 4 km (2.5 miles), you’ll pass close to Knowl Hill, a prominent high point marked by a trig pillar. This spot is a favourite for local walkers and provides a great vantage point for photos. The moorland is also home to heather, bilberry, and cotton grass, which bloom in late summer and attract a variety of insects and birds.

Descent and Return to Ashworth Moor Reservoir
The loop descends gradually, following a mix of grassy paths and old farm tracks. As you approach the final 2 km (1.2 miles), the route offers views back towards the reservoir and the rolling hills beyond. Sheep graze freely here, and the area is known for its stone walls and remnants of old farmsteads, hinting at the region’s agricultural past.

Navigation and Safety
The trail is mostly open and exposed, so weather can change rapidly—carry layers and check conditions before setting out. Navigation is straightforward, but visibility can drop quickly in mist; using HiiKER for offline maps and waypoints is highly recommended. There are no facilities on the moor itself, so bring water and snacks, and be prepared for limited shelter.

This loop is a rewarding hike for those seeking a mix of natural beauty, industrial heritage, and sweeping Pennine scenery, all within easy reach of Greater Manchester.