The best walks and hikes around Stockport

River walks and woodland explorations

When exploring the pretty hikes around Stockport, you might be surprised at just how much access to water there is. The Mersey is born here and meanders west through the tranquil green belt between Manchester and its neighbouring towns to the south, providing plenty of interesting routes. The Tame flows down from the north in a fantastically squiggly fashion, and you can follow a disused railway track along its side to Reddish Country Park. Alternatively, the Goyt has a gorgeous riverbank trail which takes you through nature reserves and woodlands as you walk upstream to the east. 

But that’s not all. To the south, you can walk from Stockport to reach Bramall Hall on Lady Brook, a small river. This extraordinary 16th-century Elizabethan Tudor mansion lies in serene riverside parkland. To the south east, you can explore the towpaths of the Macclesfield Canal as well as the Peak Forest Canal, both pass through pretty woodlands and reserves on their way from town to town. 

Explore Stockport’s fascinating history

The best hiking trails in Stockport, if you’re after a slice of the area’s history, are amazingly varied. The Hat Works museum resides in a 19th-century factory in the town centre and Vernon Mill – a former silk mill – still stands in its enormous red brick grandeur. 

To the south west of the town centre you can hike to Abney Hall with its nature reserve parkland. This stunning Victorian house is Grade II-listed and well worth exploring. To the south, Bramall Hall demands attention for its timbered construction while to east,  the 18th-century Marple Aqueduct is the highest canal aqueduct in the country and quite an astounding sight. You can walk beneath it and across it on the Peak Forest Canal’s towpath as it crosses above the River Goyt.

Survey your adventures from on high

If you’re looking for views, you don’t have to go as far east as the Peaks. Instead, hike northeast from Stockport or Marple to Werneth Low Country Park. You’ll find a network of footpaths and bridleways taking you across fields, through woodlands and across a common to find far-reaching views in every direction.