4 min readMorning: Explore Oldham's Countryside
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Oldham sits right on the edge of the Pennines, which means it's surrounded by beautiful countryside. Here's a series of easy, flat walks to enjoy across the borough:
Dovestone Reservoir
Dovestone Reservoir is a good place to start your day. It's open, quiet and easy to walk around. The main path is flat, so you can take your time and enjoy the fresh air.
Tandle Hill Country Park
Tandle Hill Country Park is a local favourite. Enjoy woodland paths, grassy areas and a few gentle climbs that lead to wide views over Greater Manchester (and a great photo opportunity!). It's a lovely spot if you're looking to get outside for a bit.
Uppermill and Diggle via Huddersfield Narrow Canal (5-mile Circular Route through Saddleworth)
Starting in Uppermill, follow the Huddersfield Narrow Canal, pass by old stone cottages, and discover sights of the area’s industrial past. As you wander towards Diggle, you’ll pass Standedge Tunnel, the longest canal tunnel in the UK. From Diggle, the route transcends into open countryside offering stunning views over the Pennines. It’s the perfect spot to soak in the scenery before heading back into Uppermill.
Alexandra Park
Alexandra Park is a Victorian public park in Oldham, opened in 1865 during the town’s industrial period. It includes walking paths, a boating lake and open green space, and is still widely used by local residents.
Northern Roots
Northern Roots is a large green space on the edge of Oldham that's being developed into an urban farm and community area. It's a working space rather than a finished park, with walking paths, growing areas and plans shaped by local people. It's a good place to slow down and see how the town is investing in green space and food growing.
Afternoon: Explore Oldham's Food and Drink Scene
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After spending the morning exploring Oldham’s countryside, head into the town centre. Oldham Council has recently introduced a set of hospitality trails, including routes focused on coffee, food, bars and activities. These trails link together independent venues across the town and make it easy to explore what Oldham has to offer.
Coffee Trail
Oldham’s town centre offers a mix of cafes and bars, set across older buildings and newer spaces. You’ll find places like The Egyptian Room Food Hall, Bittersweet and Billingtons Ballroom, Bar & Kitchen, all within easy walking distance.
View Map HERE.
Activity Trail
Oldham has a steady cultural scene with live music, exhibitions, theatre and other activities happening throughout the year. Venues such as Gallery Oldham, Oldham Coliseum Theatre and Whittles Oldham host a range of events, alongside other spaces across the town. It’s easy to find something going on, whether that’s a gig, a show or a one-off event.
View Map HERE.
Food Trail
If you’re feeling hungry, Oldham has plenty of places to choose from. From casual bites to sit-down meals, you can visit spots like The Egyptian Room Food Hall, Stocco Oldham, Valentino’s, Molino Lounge, and more. There’s something for whatever you’re in the mood for, whether it’s a quick snack or a meal.
View Map HERE.
Bar Hop Trail
Oldham has a range of bars, from real ales to cocktails and mocktails. The Oldham Bar Hop is a simple way to try a few of the town’s favourites, like Molino Lounge, Whittles Oldham and Fox & Pine. Whether you’re after a quiet drink or a livelier spot, there’s something to suit the mood.
View Map HERE.
Travel Information
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Distance: (approx) 30 minutes from Manchester City Centre.
Transport: Catch a tram - they run frequently.
The easiest way to get to Oldham is by tram. From Manchester city centre, get the Metrolink towards Oldham and Rochdale. From stops like Manchester Victoria or Piccadilly Gardens (with a short change), it takes around 25 to 30 minutes to reach Oldham Mumps.
Make your journey smooth and stress-free by planning your journey on the Bee Network app. You can also buy a range of tickets, get live departure times and see travel alerts.
For more information on route planning, accessibility tips, and live updates to help you make the most of your trip, head to the Bee Network website.
Lying to the northeast of Manchester, the borough of Oldham is a great combination of spectacular and unrivalled countryside, quaint villages and market towns, award winning food and drink establishments, excellent shopping opportunities and heritage sites.
