The GM Ringway is a hiking route that connects the ten boroughs of Greater Manchester. The loop explores woodlands, wild moors, canals, country estates, peatland habitats, panoramic hilltops, heritage valleys, traditional villages and vibrant urban areas. It also reveals the immense cultural and industrial heritage of the city region.

The 197-mile (317 km) route is divided into 20 stages that can all be accessed by public transport, typically a train station, metro link or bus station. Following accessible paths, the trail is designed to link communities via low-impact means of transport while showcasing iconic spots and hidden gems in Greater Manchester.

In this Collection, I’ve divided the GM Ringway into four Tours that detail its named sections: Southern Start-Up, Exhilarating East, Noble North, and Western Wind-Down. Each section is made up of five hikes, which I’ve described in the Tour descriptions along with public transport connections. These Tours are designed to be edited into personalised itineraries.

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just getting started, the GM Ringway has plenty to offer. The trail traverses some of the region's most iconic landscapes including the Mersey Valley, the Peak District National Park, and the South and West Pennines.

Beyond its natural allure, the GM Ringway reveals the rich cultural and industrial heritage of Greater Manchester. The trail passes more than 40 listed buildings, 13 accredited museums, 14 scheduled ancient monuments and explores many historic canals and waterways. Expect macabre ruins, enchanting stately homes and unique settlements.

Highlights along the way include: Chorlton Water Park nature reserve; Lyme Park country estate; glorious views at Standedge escarpment; Crompton Moor; the Blackstone Edge panorama; Prickshaw Village, a former textile community that’s now a conservation area; views over Greenbooth Reservoir; the ruins of Deeply Vale Mill; Cadishead and Little Woolden Moss, a once-exploited peat bog that’s starting to be reclaimed by nature; Salford Quays; and Manchester Cathedral.

The route starts and finishes at St Peter’s Square Metrolink in the heart of Manchester city centre. As it’s a loop, you can, of course, start it wherever you wish. Due to the excellent connectivity along the way, it’s easy to combine or shorten stages and walk individual stages.

Accommodation and other facilities are abundant en route. Exhilarating East has the fewest options but you’re still never too far away. And, as each stage ends somewhere with good public transport links, it’s easy to find somewhere to stay. I recommend booking ahead, especially at busier times like school holidays.

The GM Ringway project is led by two charities, CPRE The Countryside Charity and Ramblers, and received a £250,000 Heritage Fund grant. It’s hoped the trail will become a permanent resource for residents and visitors alike to explore the region healthily and sustainably.

To find out more about the GM Ringway route and project, head to the website: gmringway.org.