The Heights and Lights of Marsden

Please note: The ground in some places may be very boggy. Please make sure you wear appropriate footwear for walking in these conditions. PLEASE DO NOT WEAR TRAINERS. Walking poles may also prove useful for the downhill sections

Train based walk

Leader: Jo Harvey

Meet Point: Near the ticket barriers, or on the platform at Piccadilly Station. Alternatively, meet the group on the train, or at the Walk Start at Marsden Station.

Transport to Walk Start: 11:00 train from Manchester Piccadilly to Marsden.

Suggested Ticket: Off-Peak Day Return to Marsden £13.20

Walk Start: At Marsden Station at 11:30

Waypoints: Marsden village, Marsden Park, Marsden Moor, Shooters Nab, Wessenden Reservoir, Wessenden Head Waterfall, Butterley Reservoir, Marsden village

Return Services: xx:06

Extra: No toilets at walk start. No toilets en-route. Optional drinks at the end of the walk. Please do not bring your dog (apart from assistance dogs).

Sunday, 6 December 2026
Start time: 11:30 am
Estimated finish time: 4:00 pm
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 9.7km / 6.0mi
Ascent: 275m / 902ft
Type: circular

Meeting at Marsden station, we drop down into the village and across the park. Then up a moderate climb onto Marsden moor gradually getting higher with spectacular views of Marsden and Shooters Nab. From here we stay up high until the scenery opens up to a dramatic view of Wessenden valley and beyond. We continue on the tops admiring views until a very steep decent (walking poles very handy) . From here - weather depending- we can continue to Wessenden Head Waterfall. We cross the stepping stones, down a very steep stone path and then make our way back to the village where we can admire the very unique Christmas lights and frequent one of the drinking establishments.

Please wear walking boots only, no trainers and bring waterproofs and a head torch if you have one.