Saddleworth Discovery Walks: Along the Denshaw Valley to Heights

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.

SETTING OUT from Denshaw, my son and I made our way along the upper-reaches of the River Tame, where a lone Heron stalked the shallow waters in search of a meal.

At New Years Bridge Reservoir we made our way over to Ox Hey Farm where, more used to being seen in the high mountains of Peru, Llama grazed in the lush grassy meadows.

With a light rain being blown in from the south-west, we headed over to Heights where we looked around Heights Chapel, which has appeared in many a film and TV production.

Afterwards we enjoyed some welcome refreshment in The Royal Oak pub opposite. Sitting in front of the open fire we chatted with the landlord Michael and his wife Sheila, who were very friendly and welcoming.

Overhearing several conversations, it was clear many of the regulars were keen walkers and anyone calling in would fit in and be made very welcome.

With the refreshments and warming fire taking effect we left the comfort of the pub and made our way down into the Denshaw Valley, past Friarmere cricket club.

Crossing the fields we discovered a Lapwing’s nest complete with incubating eggs. The protective parents had taken to the skies to chase off a couple of marauding Carrion Crow.

Hopefully the batch of eggs hatched and the chicks survive to adulthood, as unfortunately the lapwing (or Peewit as it is also known in imitation of its display calls) is now on the RSPB’s ‘RED’ endangered list.

Continuing north, we made our way along the valley bottom to return to Denshaw. Spending some great father and son time, we had enjoyed a lovely afternoon stroll and had seen a range of wildlife en route.

Join Chris on his next guided Saddleworth Discovery Walk on Saturday, July 19. Meet at 9am outside Saddleworth Museum, Uppermill, for an approx. 2-hour walk exploring the Huddersfield Narrow Canal and the old Micklehurst Railway Line. Further info available on his website or Facebook page/