Chris Maylor, who runs a Saddleworth Discovery Walks blog and Facebook page, looks at how to navigate around some of Saddleworth’s historic landmarks.
For more information about local walks, email Chris at saddleworthdiscoverywalks@gmail.com or visit his Facebook page or website.
THE RECENT spell of sunny weather we’d been having coincided nicely with May’s guided Discovery Walk around the Dobcross Trail.
Setting out from the Brownhill Visitor Centre, our group first visited the Brownhill Bridge Mill, on Dobcross New Road. At the front of this former 18th century teasing mill, hidden in the undergrowth, can be found the remains of an ancient packhorse bridge which spans Diggle Brook.
Turning our backs on the mill we ascended Nicker Brow, which is thought to have been part of a medieval trading route. At the top is Bridge House, where Henry Platt was born and from where he began his engineering business.
As the morning sun cast its warming rays, we explored the historical delights of Dobcross village. We wandered around the quiet streets and while admiring the old buildings, the group shared pieces of historical information relating to the village’s past.
Moving on, we left the village centre along the former turnpike road that is Platt Lane to emerge onto Huddersfield Road opposite the Old Bell Inn. In 1835, the then Princess Victoria spent the night in this former coaching house on her way to the York Festival with her mother.
Turning left at the former Delph Railway Station, we passed the Bailey Mill, where the railway sidings and part of the tracks can still be seen.
On Delph New Road, we gained access to the Delph Donkey Trail. Named after an old branch railway line, the trail is now an important biodiversity corridor which is popular with walkers, cyclists and horse riders.
Along the way, we stopped at the various information boards which explain the history of the various stations and mills that were dotted along the line.
Reaching the end of the trail, we returned to the Lime Kiln Café to enjoy some welcome refreshments.
Saddleworth Discovery Walks, hold regular guided walks every month. Our next walk will be on Wednesday, June 18 from Dovestone Sailing Club at 7pm. For further details visit the Facebook page or website.
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