About us
We’re the MAD (Manchester and District) walkers. Since 2004 we’ve been hosting regular hikes for Manchester people in their 20s and 30s. Our website, with our full events programme, can be found at https://www.madwalkers.org.uk/
Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/madwalkers and Instagram https://www.instagram.com/madwalkers to see photos of previous walks and socials.
Our walks range from short & easy, great for new starters, to long and challenging routes for those looking to push themselves. Most events are accessible by public transport, taking advantage of Manchester’s comprehensive rail network. Once at the walk start location, we’ll gather for a short introduction — just look for the large group of people in hiking boots! Our weekend walks often attract 30 people — not everyone will RSVP on Meetup, so don’t worry if the attendee list looks small.
Beyond walks, we also host regular social events. Our monthly drinks meet-up is a great way to get to know the group. Members and new-joiners are welcome, just drop-in at a time that suits you.
Occasionally we also organise weekend trips away, which is a great way to experience areas outside the immediate reach of Manchester. Typically we book out an entire hostel or campsite for the weekend and offer an all-in price to come along. For our DIY weekends, members arrange their own food and accommodation, meeting at the hike start.
The MAD Walkers are part of the Ramblers, Britain’s walking charity: https://www.ramblers.org.uk/. All our events are not-for-profit and run by volunteers. New joiners are welcome to come along to 3 walks for free, after which point we ask people to become a member. An individual membership is around £43 a year, which unlocks benefits like socials, weekends away, access to our members-only Facebook group and discounts at local retailers.
For more information, and our full events programme, check out our website at https://www.madwalkers.org.uk/
Hopefully we’ll see you soon.
Upcoming events
1
The Sunday Stroll - In search of the A6(M)
Manchester Piccadilly Station, Piccadilly Station Approach, Greater Manchester, GBNew joiners welcome! 🥾
In search of the mythical and unbuilt A6(M), the Stockport North-South Bypass which never was!
A linear walk from Brinnington to Hazel Grove through southern Stockport featuring a bit of Reddish Vale, tunnels (disused railway and motorway), oddly specific signs, an historic hall farm and a local nature reserve. We will finish in Hazel Grove sampling one of the many pubs on London Road (A6).
It was a bit muddy in places on the recce, so please don't wear your best trainers!
The listed ascent is overall, it's generally a flat walk with no more than 25m ascent at a time.
This walk will be led by Jennie Harrison. It is graded Slight/Leisurely: Walks for reasonably fit people with at least a little country walking experience. May include unsurfaced rural paths, with some sustained ascents or descents. Walking boots and warm, waterproof clothing are recommended.
FAQs:
What to wear? Walking boots/shoes are recommended as paths are expected to be muddy. Bring waterproofs and warm clothing.
A hot flask with your favourite drink is always a good idea this time of year. Bring enough water, some snacks and food for lunch.
Can I bring a dog? Please note it’s assistance dogs only on this walk.
Can I drive to the walk start? You’re more than welcome to meet us at Brinnington train station — just make sure to arrive before 10:56am. The walk will start on time, we cannot wait for late arrivals, sorry. We will wait for the train from Manchester. Please note that this is a linear walk so we won't be returning to Brinnington at the end.
Many of our members are not on Meetup, so the RSVP list will be smaller than the total number of attendees. Typically around 30 people join each walk, so there's plenty of people to chat with.
Itinerary:
10:35 - Meet at Manchester Piccadilly train station
10:45 - Take the train departing for Brinnington
10:56 - Walk starts at Brinnington train station
15:00 (approx) - Walk end at Hazel Grove train station. Optional post-walk drinks at a nearby pub.
Recommended train tickets:
OUTBOUND: Off-peak day single to Brinnington - £3.50
RETURN: Trains every two hours from Hazel Grove to Manchester Piccadilly, £3.70 (off peak single).
Alternatively, the 192 bus service runs from Hazel Grove into Manchester via Stockport and the A6, every ten minutes, £2.
Details:
- Walk rating: Slight/Leisurely (Suitable for new walkers)
- Linear Walk
- Distance: 6.9 miles
- Ascent: 100m
For more information, please see our page at https://www.madwalkers.org.uk/walks/
Disclaimer
By taking part in these walks, you acknowledge that you do so entirely at your own risk. You are solely responsible for your personal safety, decisions, and actions throughout the event. Participation is completely voluntary.
By attending, you agree that your wellbeing is your own responsibility. The organiser cannot be held liable for any loss, injury, or damage that may occur.11 attendees
Past events
629
