Longdendale Trail from Torside Reservoir
Cheshire
The Longdendale Trail follows the old railway line through the chain of reservoirs that fill the Longdendale valley, and starting from Torside Reservoir gives you the best of the big-sky scenery. The 9.7km circuit uses the flat, surfaced trail along the reservoir shores before climbing onto the surrounding moorland for a wilder return with views across Bleaklow and Black Hill. The valley has a distinctly exposed, northern character, with dark water, stone walls and the constant presence of the high moors pressing in from both sides. The old railway infrastructure, cuttings, bridges, and the ghost of the Manchester-Sheffield line, adds industrial texture to the landscape.
This is a rewarding dog friendly walk that offers both easy reservoir-side paths and rougher moorland terrain. The trail sections are excellent for steady off-lead walking, though leads are needed on the moorland return where sheep graze the open hillside. The reservoirs provide water access, though the banks can be steep in places. The exposed sections above the valley catch the wind, so this walk suits hardy dogs comfortable with open ground and changeable Peak District weather. Torside car park provides good access, and the Woodhead road is close for onward travel. A strong choice when you want genuine distance and that wild Pennine feeling.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 9.7 km (6.0 miles)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- 2 hr 30 min
- Walk Type
- Peak, Moorland, Reservoir
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Moderate
- Livestock Risk
- Moderate
- Facilities
- Toilets, Picnic area, Information point
- Parking
- Car parks at Torside and Crowden
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Longdendale Trail from Torside Reservoir dog friendly?
Yes, Longdendale Trail from Torside Reservoir is a solid choice for dogs, earning a rating of 8 out of 10. The 9.7km circuit combines flat, well-surfaced trail along the reservoir shores with wilder moorland terrain on the return, so there's plenty of variety to keep dogs engaged. The reservoirs offer water access along the way, though it's worth noting that the banks can be steep in places.
Can dogs be off lead at Longdendale Trail from Torside Reservoir?
The flat trail sections along the reservoir shores are well suited to steady off-lead walking. However, leads are needed on the moorland return route, where sheep graze the open hillside. It's a nice mix , good off-lead freedom for much of the walk, with a more managed section where it matters.
What should I know before visiting Longdendale Trail from Torside Reservoir with my dog?
The exposed sections above the valley can be seriously windy, so this walk is best suited to hardy dogs that are comfortable on open ground and in changeable Peak District weather. The moorland terrain on the return is rougher than the smooth reservoir-side trail, so it's worth bearing your dog's fitness in mind. Torside car park makes for easy access, and there are toilets, a picnic area, and an information point on site.
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