Premium Walk

Park Bridge

Updated: July 11, 2025
Featured image for Park Bridge

Walk Highlights

Nearest Town:
Ashton-under-Lyne
Distance:
3.90 miles
Time:
1.40 hours
Difficulty:
Moderate
Terrain:

Terrain: A fascinating mix reflecting its industrial past and natural regeneration. Paths around the Heritage Centre and some main routes are often well-surfaced (compacted stone/gravel) and relatively accessible. Trails exploring the former ironworks ruins, woodlands, and along the Rochdale Canal or River Medlock can be earthier, uneven, rooty, with steps, and become muddy and slippery after rain. Some moderate slopes and climbs, particularly through woodland or up from the valley floor.

3-Day Dog Walking Forecast

Loading forecast...
Powered by Open-Meteo

Ground Conditions

No reports yet. Walked this recently?

Dog-Centric Details

Poo Bins Available:
No
Secure/Fenced Area:
No
Dog Water Source:
No
Dog Notes:

Dog Considerations:

  • Leads: Park Bridge is a popular historical and recreational site. Dogs should be on leads around the Heritage Centre, car park, any cafe/picnic areas, and when paths are busy. In the wider woodlands or along quieter sections of canal towpath away from main crowds, off-lead exercise may be possible for well-behaved dogs with good recall, but always be mindful of other walkers, cyclists (on permitted routes), historical structures (ruins can be hazardous), and wildlife.
  • Water: The Rochdale Canal and the River Medlock flow through or adjacent to the area, offering paddling opportunities (assess currents, water quality, and safe access points, especially for the river). Carry fresh water.
  • Wildlife: Woodland birds, squirrels, waterfowl on the canal/river. Ensure dogs do not chase or disturb wildlife.
  • Dog Bins: Usually available at the main car park area and near the Heritage Centre. May be less frequent on more remote trails.
  • Hazards: Industrial ruins (can have unfenced drops, unstable stonework – keep to marked paths and supervise dogs closely). Canal and river (deep water, steep banks). Muddy and slippery paths. Some paths can be narrow or have restricted visibility.
EV Charger Nearby:
No
Fuel Station Nearby:
No
Livestock Information:
Off-Leash Policy:
Partial Off-Leash
Dog Traffic:
Busy
Seasonal Advice:
Height Restriction:
No
Printable Version:
Upgrade to Plus to Print

About this Walk

Starting Point: Park Bridge Heritage Centre car park, Park Bridge, Ashton-under-Lyne, Tameside (Postcode: OL6 8AQ). Approximate Distance: 1.5 - 4 miles (2.4 - 6.4 km), with various trails exploring the industrial heritage, woodlands, and canal sections within the Medlock Valley at this point.Estima...

Unlock the Full Guide

Get precise parking coordinates, the detailed step-by-step route, and the interactive GPS map.

Essentials

Directions & Parking

SAVE 58%
£1.25 /mo*

*Billed £14.99 yearly

  • Unlock Directions
  • View Parking Info
Get Essentials
Most Popular

Plus

Maps & Offline

BEST VALUE
£2.50 /mo*

*Billed £29.99 yearly

  • Everything in Essentials
  • OS Maps & GPS Tracking
  • Offline Mode
Go Plus

Already a member? Log In

Secure Payment 7-Day Money-Back Guarantee Cancel Anytime