COMBS RESERVOIR AND ECCLES PIKE WALK

Short walk, big views — fancy a Sunday stroll that starts and ends in a country pub? Look no further…

Start: The Hanging Gate, Chapel, SK23 9UH

Distance: 3.81 miles

Duration: 1.5 hours

Elevation: 400 feet

Navigation: follow our route here

The Essentials

Combs Reservoir and Eccles Pike Overview

Starting and ending at cosy country pub, The Hanging Gate, this short loop is perfect for stretching the legs on a crisp autumn’s day. The walk takes you around the serene Combs Reservoir before climbing slightly to the summit of Eccles Pike for breahtaking panoramas of the surrounding countryside.

Trail Highlights

Comb Reservoir

Combs Reservoir was originally designed to feed a canal in the Peak District National Park. While there are lots of routes nearby to choose from, there are two main Combs Reservoir walks that you’ll want to give a go. Hint: this one is our favourite!

Eccles Pike

Eccles Pike is steeped in history, with remnants of an Iron Age hillfort, making this short loop not only visually stunning, but you can get your history fix while you’re at it. On a clear day, you can see as far as our beloved Manchester.

Chapel-en-le-Frith

This historic market town offers a delightful contrast to the natural beauty you'll encounter. It's worth exploring its charming streets and grabbing a coffee or a meal before or after your hike.

The Hanging Gate

Famed for their ability to seasonally decorate like nobody’s business, this High Peak pub is a real must-visit on any Peak District wish list.

Transportation Options from Manchester

By Train:

One of the most convenient ways to reach Chapel-en-le-Frith from Manchester is by train. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes from Manchester Piccadilly to Chapel-en-le-Frith train station. From the station, it's a short walk to The Hanging Gate pub, where your adventure begins.

By Car:

If you prefer to drive, it's about a 30-mile journey from central Manchester to Chapel-en-le-Frith. The journey takes roughly 45 minutes by car.

Fancy following along? Find step-by-step directions here