Glossop Reservoirs and Waterfall Walk

16.2 miles (26 km)

This walk from Glossop takes you to a series of reservoirs and a lovely waterfall. Starting in Manor Park in Glossop you first head to Swineshaw Reservoir before continuing north to pick up the Longdendale Trail near Padfield.... Follow the shared cycling and walking trail east and it will take you past Valehouse Reservoir, Rhodeswood Reservoir, Torside Reservoir and Woodhead Reservoir. At the eastern end of Woodhead Reservoir you can follow trails along the River Etherow towards Middle Black Clough Waterfall.
The route provides a good way to explore the Longdendale Valley, with the chain of reservoirs creating a striking landscape between the surrounding moorland hills. The Longdendale Trail follows the former Woodhead railway line, providing a relatively level and easy-to-follow section through the valley with views across the water and surrounding hills.
There is plenty of variety along the way, from the open moorland around Swineshaw Reservoir to the wooded sections and waterside paths beside the River Etherow. The reservoirs are also important habitats for birds and other wildlife, while the surrounding hills give the route a distinctly wild Peak District character despite its proximity to Glossop.
The final section to Middle Black Clough Waterfall provides a particularly attractive finish, with the River Etherow running through the wooded clough before reaching the waterfall. The combination of reservoirs, an old railway trail, river valley and waterfall makes this a varied long-distance walk from Glossop