WORKING LIVES ON THE MOOR

Start & Finish: Catley Lane Head, Rooley Moor Road, Rochdale OL12 6BN OS Grid Reference: SD 872 158
Distance: 3.9 miles (6.2 km)
Terrain: Moorland tracks, stone setts, gentle climbs
Difficulty: Moderate
Suitable for: Walkers and horse riders
Dogs: Welcome, but must be kept on a lead at all times as there is livestock on the moor 
WELCOME
Rooley Moor is a landscape shaped by ordinary working people. Shepherds, smallholders, quarrymen, mill workers and commoners all left their mark on the moor, creating the heritage we see today. This circular walk explores their daily working lives and the traditions, crafts and routines that sustained upland communities for centuries.
It also highlights how responsible stewardship — by volunteers, conservation groups, commoners and the landowner — is required to protect the moor’s environment, history and heritage for future generations.
BEFORE YOU SET OFF
Getting There
We recommend starting the walk from Catley Lane Head village on Rooley Moor Road. There is ample roadside parking, but please park considerately. A regular bus service runs from Rochdale and Bury to Daniel Fold, from where it is a short uphill walk to the village.
Safety & Clothing
• Wear sturdy boots and warm waterproof clothing — the moor can be muddy and weather conditions change rapidly.
• In poor weather the route can be encased in cloud.
• Carry water and some food.
• There are no stiles, gates, bridges or stream crossings, but the ground is uneven.

Timings

Friday 11 September:

From 9am

Saturday 12 September:

From 9am

Sunday 13 September:

From 9am

Monday 14 September:

From 9am

Tuesday 15 September:

From 9am

Wednesday 16 September:

From 9am

Thursday 17 September:

From 9am

Friday 18 September:

From 9am

Saturday 19 September:

From 9am

Sunday 20 September:

From 9am

Location & directions

Catley Lane Head, Rooley Moor Road, Rochdale, Greater Manchester, OL12 6BN

Directions:

We recommend starting the walk from Catley Lane Head village on Rooley Moor Road. There is ample roadside parking, but please park considerately. A regular bus service runs from Rochdale and Bury to Daniel Fold, from where it is a short uphill walk to the village.

Contact on day:

Alan Rawsterne

Telephone number:

+447970715904

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

Safety & Clothing • Wear sturdy boots and warm waterproof clothing — the moor can be muddy and weather conditions change rapidly. • In poor weather the route can be encased in cloud. • Carry water and some food. • There are no stiles, gates, bridges or stream crossings, but the ground is uneven. Shared Use of the Moor The moor is still actively farmed by the Commoners, so you may encounter livestock or farm vehicles. Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times. Litter Bins are located at the top and bottom of the village — please use them, including for dog waste.

Additional information

The route is on the Rooley Moor Neighbourhood website: https://www.rmnf.org.uk/map/heritage-trail-5-working-lives-on-the-moor/ where a .gpx file can be downloaded and a route description printed.

Max number of people:

10

Estimated duration:

2 hour(s) 30 minute(s)

Check out our online channels

Back to results