Mellor to Strines Loop Walk

Starting near Stockport, England, the Mellor to Strines Loop Walk is a delightful 7 km (4.3 miles) loop trail with an elevation gain of approximately 200 meters (656 feet). This medium-difficulty trail offers a mix of scenic landscapes, historical landmarks, and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transport. If driving, set your GPS to Mellor Church, Church Road, Mellor, Stockport, SK6 5LX. For those using public transport, take a train to Marple Station, which is about 3 km (1.9 miles) from the trailhead. From the station, you can either take a local bus or a taxi to Mellor Church.

Trail Overview The trail begins near Mellor Church, a historic site dating back to the 12th century. As you start your hike, you'll be greeted by rolling hills and lush greenery. The first section of the trail is relatively flat, making it a good warm-up for the more challenging parts ahead.

Key Landmarks and Sections

#### Mellor Church to Roman Lakes Approximately 1.5 km (0.9 miles) into the hike, you'll come across the Roman Lakes. This area is rich in history, with evidence of Roman settlements. The lakes themselves are serene and offer a great spot for a short break. Keep an eye out for various bird species that frequent the area, including kingfishers and herons.

#### Ascent to Mellor Moor After leaving the Roman Lakes, the trail begins to ascend towards Mellor Moor. This section is about 2 km (1.2 miles) long and gains most of the elevation. The climb can be steep in parts, so take your time and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Peak District.

#### Strines Reservoir At around the 5 km (3.1 miles) mark, you'll reach Strines Reservoir. This is another excellent spot to rest and take in the natural beauty. The reservoir is surrounded by woodlands, and you might spot deer or foxes if you're lucky. The path around the reservoir is well-maintained, making for an easy and enjoyable walk.

Wildlife and Flora The Mellor to Strines Loop Walk is home to a variety of wildlife. In addition to the birds at Roman Lakes and the mammals near Strines Reservoir, you might also encounter rabbits, squirrels, and a range of insects. The flora is equally diverse, with wildflowers, ferns, and ancient oak trees lining the path.

Navigation For navigation, it's highly recommended to use HiiKER, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates. The trail is well-marked, but having a reliable navigation tool can help you stay on track and discover additional points of interest.

Final Stretch The last 2 km (1.2 miles) of the trail take you through more wooded areas and open fields before looping back to Mellor Church. This section is relatively flat and offers a peaceful end to your hike. As you approach the trailhead, take a moment to visit the churchyard, where you can find ancient gravestones and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

This trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and moderate physical challenge, making it a rewarding experience for hikers of all levels.