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In the north of the Peak District, the land feels older than memory — a high, wind-scoured realm where earth and sky seem locked in quiet legend.
From Marsden we ascend into the uplands, stepping onto peat-dark moors that breathe with ancient silence. The hills rise like sleeping giants, their backs stretched beneath vast, roaming clouds. Far-reaching views unfold in every direction — ridgelines fading into myth and distance.
Below, reservoirs lie like dark mirrors, still and watchful, as though guarding secrets of rain and stone. Streams slip through hidden cloughs, threading silver through rock, whispering old songs as they carve their way down the valley sides.
Here the wind is a storyteller, the water a quiet oracle, and every step feels part of something timeless — a northern pilgrimage across wild, elemental ground.

** Featured Photo**

** Meeting Location & Time**

** Walk Overview**

  • Distance: ~16 miles (26 km)
  • Elevation Gain: ~2,200 ft (700 mt)
  • Duration: around 7 hours
  • Difficulty: Hard
  • Route Type: Circular

Pace & Fitness Requirements
This is a long walk intended for those in good physical condition. Please note that the group may not be able to wait for significantly slower walkers, so it’s important to be prepared.
While you’re welcome to walk at your own pace, be aware that the route may take longer than expected if walking slower than average.

⛰️ Route Highlights

  • Marsden
  • View of Butterley Reservoir
  • View of Wessenden Reservoir
  • Sike Clough
  • Winster Clough
  • Wessenden Head Reservoir
  • Rushy Sike Clough
  • Dean Clough
  • Marsden Moor
  • Black Hill Trig Point
  • Wessenden Head Moss
  • Black Moss Reservoir
  • View of Swellands Reservoir
  • Blakely Clough
  • Blake Clough
  • Wessenden Reservoir
  • Blakeley Reservoir
  • Butterley Reservoir
  • Butterley Clough

** Route Links**

** Public Transport**

  • direct trains from/to Manchester
  • direct trains from/to Huddersfield

️ Weather & Clothing
The weather on the hills can be highly variable, windy, and cold — even during the summer months.
Please wear sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good grip to handle muddy and slippery terrain. Avoid flat trainers or jeans.
Dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions:

  • Moisture-wicking base layers
  • Insulating mid-layers
  • Waterproof outer layers

Useful links for weather forecasts:

** What to Bring**

  • Sturdy walking boots or shoes with good grip (no flat trainers)
  • Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing (avoid jeans)
  • Sufficient food and water for the entire day
  • Waterproof jacket and warm layers
  • Gloves and woolly hat
  • A comfortable backpack
  • Optional: hiking poles, sunglasses, hat, camera, power bank, torch (or headlamp), phone (or watch) with the route downloaded

** Dogs**
Fit and friendly dogs are welcome! Please keep them on a lead near livestock.

** Notes**

  • The route is planned via Komoot and not pre-walked, so expect possible muddy or slippery sections.
  • This event may be cancelled or rescheduled if weather conditions are unsafe. Updates will be posted in the comments, so please enable email notifications for any changes.

** Bookings**

  • Please only book if you genuinely intend to attend.
  • If you reserve a spot but can no longer make it, please cancel your booking or let the organiser know. It only takes a moment to update your booking, and it really helps everyone: the organiser, the walk leader, and your fellow attendees.

⛑️ Disclaimer
You are fully responsible for your own safety, health, fitness, and equipment. The group has no insurance — by RSVPing, you agree to these terms.

** Questions?**
Feel free to comment below or message the organiser privately.

Related topics

Events in Marsden, GB
Adventure
Nature
Hiking
Outdoors
Trekking

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