Marsden Moor and Standedge Circuit

At a Glance

Distance

16.0 km (9.9 miles)

Difficulty

Challenging

Duration

5 hr 30 min

Walk Type

Moorland, Reservoir, Canal

Route Type

Circular

Off Lead Potential

Low

Livestock Risk

Moderate

Facilities

None on route; cafes, pubs and shops in Marsden; Standedge Tunnel visitor centre at Tunnel End.

Parking

Station Road car park by Marsden railway station; Marsden has a direct train service.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is Marsden Moor and Standedge Circuit dog friendly?

  Marsden Moor and Standedge Circuit is dog friendly, earning a rating of 7 out of 10. Dogs are welcome throughout this 16km National Trust moorland round, though the estate has specific rules around lead use and close control that are worth understanding before you set off.

• Can dogs be off lead at Marsden Moor and Standedge Circuit?

  Dogs must be kept on a lead from 1 March to 31 July to protect ground-nesting birds such as golden plover and curlew, which breed on the moor. Outside of that window, the National Trust still asks for dogs to be kept under close control at all times, and there is livestock on the Pennine Way section before Millstone Edge, so a lead will be needed in that area regardless of the time of year.

• What should I know before visiting Marsden Moor and Standedge Circuit with my dog?

  This is a challenging 16km route with steep, uneven terrain, so it really suits fit dogs used to long days on the hill — the National Trust suggests allowing around five hours. There is no shade on the open tops and the reservoir water isn't suitable for drinking, so it's worth carrying enough water for your dog. There are no toilets or facilities on the route itself, but Marsden has cafes and pubs, and the Standedge Tunnel visitor centre is at Tunnel End near the finish.

Station Road Car Park, Marsden, Huddersfield HD7 6DH

53.6027, -1.9320