Highlight • Viewpoint
Hiking
5.0
(40)
Pingot Quarry Waterfall is a captivating natural viewpoint nestled within Crompton Moor, near Shaw in Oldham, North West England. Situated at an elevation of 281 meters, this picturesque waterfall is formed by the Old Brook river as it cascades into a former stone quarry. The site offers a unique blend of natural beauty and industrial heritage, making it a distinctive landmark in the region.
Visitors consistently praise the serene and picturesque atmosphere of Pingot Quarry Waterfall. The sound of the…
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March 1, 2021
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November 8, 2023
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4.9
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30
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
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9
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
18
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 280 m
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Max wind speed: 36.0 km/h
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The waterfall is a key landmark on numerous popular hiking and walking loops within Crompton Moor. You'll find trails ranging from easy, shorter walks to more challenging, longer routes that can take several hours. Popular options include the Pingot Quarry Waterfall and Piethorne Valley Loop, and the Brushes Clough Reservoir – Pingot Quarry Waterfall loop. These trails offer diverse terrain, from open moorland to wooded areas and reservoir edges.
While the area is generally family-friendly, the terrain around Pingot Quarry Waterfall can be rugged and muddy, especially after rain. Sturdy hiking boots are recommended for all visitors. It is generally not suitable for prams due to uneven paths and potentially boggy sections. For families with young children, consider shorter, easier routes and be prepared for varied ground conditions.
Yes, Pingot Quarry Waterfall and the surrounding Crompton Moor are generally dog-friendly. Many hikers enjoy bringing their canine companions along. However, please ensure dogs are kept under control, especially around wildlife and other visitors, and always clean up after your pet to preserve the natural beauty of the area.
Parking is available at various points around Crompton Moor, which provides access to trails leading to the waterfall. Specific car parks can be found near Shaw and Crompton. It's advisable to check local parking regulations and availability, especially during peak times, as spaces can fill up quickly.
The waterfall is beautiful regardless of the weather, but it truly comes alive after a few days of rain. The Old Brook river cascades with more drama and volume, creating a more impressive scene. However, wet weather also means the trails will be muddier and potentially more rugged, so sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are essential for a comfortable experience.
The waterfall is located on Crompton Moor, a natural area. For amenities like cafes, pubs, and accommodation, you would need to visit the nearby towns of Shaw or Crompton. These towns offer various options for refreshments and places to stay, typically a short drive or bus ride from the moor's access points.
Crompton Moor, where the waterfall is located, is an area of biological importance with diverse flora and fauna. Visitors might spot various birds such as kestrels and grey partridges, as well as mammals like foxes and hares. The moorland itself features purple moor grass, heather, and pine forest, making it a rich habitat for nature enthusiasts.
While the waterfall creates a beautiful scene, it is generally not suitable for wild swimming due to its nature as a cascade into a former quarry. Additionally, for safety and environmental reasons, wild swimming is often discouraged or prohibited in many reservoirs and natural water bodies in the UK. It's best to enjoy the waterfall's beauty from the trails.
The waterfall's name comes from its past as Pingot Quarry, an active site in the late 19th and early 20th centuries where Helpet Edge Rock was extracted. Visitors can still observe remnants of the old quarry working faces and waste heaps, which add a fascinating historical dimension to the landscape, showing how nature has reclaimed the industrial site.
Yes, Crompton Moor itself offers numerous panoramic views across the surrounding landscape, including heather-clad hills. The trails often lead past other natural features and landmarks, such as reservoirs (like Brushes Clough Reservoir) and diverse moorland ecosystems, providing a constantly changing and picturesque environment for hikers to explore.