A wild moorland circuit exploring West Nab, the Wessenden reservoirs and waterfalls, with big views and fascinating industrial history.

About this walk

This beautiful circular walk explores the wild uplands of Marsden Moor and the Wessenden Valley, combining a 500m summit, tumbling cloughs, waterfalls and a landscape shaped by both nature and industry.

We’ll make our way onto West Nab before crossing open moorland and descending into the Wessenden Valley. Along the way we’ll explore the story of the reservoirs and waterworks that transformed this landscape during the 19th century, as well as the older tracks, farming remains and moorland habitats that survive around them.

We’ll walk at a relaxed, sociable pace with plenty of time to stop for views, waterfalls, history and wildlife. Expect rugged moorland, reservoir scenery, a trig point and some wonderfully wild Dark Peak atmosphere.

Distance: 9.9 km / 6.2 miles

Ascent: 345 m / 1,132 ft

Level of difficulty: Intermediate – uneven moorland paths, boggy sections, clough terrain and sustained ups and downs. Good footwear and a reasonable level of hill fitness are required.

Who will be your guide?

I’m Emily, founder of Peak Outdoor Community, and I’m a Mountain Leader based in Glossop at the edge of the Dark Peak. I’ve always been outdoorsy since being a young girl but hiking became a real obsession in 2019 when I started to go solo. I aim to inspire other women to learn the many benefits of exploring in the outdoors and I’m passionate about sharing my love for adventure with you!

Feel free to check out the website: Peak Outdoor Community (https://www.peakoutdoorcommunity.com/) and follow us on Instagram and Facebook: @peakoutdoorcommunity (https://www.instagram.com/peakoutdoorcommunity)

Meeting Information

Meeting Point: free parking at Wessenden Head Road Car ParkWessenden Head Rd, Meltham, Holmfirth HD9 4EU, Google Maps (https://maps.app.goo.gl/VU9bVbGwKyY29pti6)

We will meet at 9.45 am to leave at 10am.

Car sharing from Glossop can often be arranged—please get in touch if you'd like adding to the group chat.

What to bring:

Hiking boots or shoes with good grip

Snacks/lunch to sustain you for up to 3.5 hours

Rucksack

Water (at least 1L)

Waterproofs

Warm layers

Sun hat/sun cream

Hat and gloves

A small first aid kit with any personal medications

Walking poles, sit mat, hot drink (optional extras)

Terrain:

Open moorland and reservoir tracks give way to rougher paths around cloughs and waterfalls. Some sections can be boggy, eroded or slippery when wet. The weather can change quickly on Marsden Moor and paths can become slippery in wet conditions.

Toilets:

There are no facilities at the car park or on the route. I will point out discreet 'wild wee' spots whilst we're out if needed.

Safety:

The aim of every Peak Outdoor Community walk is to create a welcoming, relaxed and enjoyable experience. We walk at a comfortable pace with plenty of opportunities to stop, chat, take photographs and learn about the landscape.

As with all outdoor activities, there are inherent risks. Participants are responsible for ensuring they are fit enough for the walk and should let us know about any relevant medical conditions before attending.

All participants must complete a Medical & Disclaimer Form at least 24 hours before the event.

All walks are led by qualified Mountain Leaders with Outdoor First Aid qualifications.

Dogs:

Well-behaved dogs are welcome provided they remain on a lead throughout the walk.

Refund Policy*:

Refunds are only available if Peak Outdoor Community cancels the event.

If you can no longer attend, you're welcome to transfer your ticket to someone else—please let us know beforehand.

Tickets cannot be transferred to another event unless this has been arranged.

And FINALLY:

Our walks go ahead in all seasons because some of the best adventures happen when we embrace the British weather!

In the event that the hike needs to be postponed for safety reasons (weather warnings, moor fires, etc), and you can't make the new date, you will be offered a voucher to use on a future event.

Please see our website for our full Terms & Conditions (https://www.peakoutdoorcommunity.com/tcs).

Description supplied by the event organiser.