Chinley Churn and Eccles Pike
8 people attending
4 places left
From Chinley you can explore the surrounding hills into the Peaks and the local industrial heritage. On this walk we will visit three hills: Eccles Pike, Chinley Churn and South Head. Climbing Eccles Pike gives 360-degree views across the Peaks, the Sett Valley, and towards Manchester. Approaching Chinley Churn we visit the rust-coloured crags of Cracken Edge, the remains of a gritstone quarry, with some remnants of the quarry equipment still present.
During the walk we will visit the bifurcating double railway viaduct at Chapel Milton. One section of the viaduct diverges and curves to the west whilst the other (built a little later) curves to the east. At one time the western section carried express trains from London (St Pancras) to Manchester Central Station as part of the Midland Railway, it now carries stone quarried from around Buxton.
On our walk we will visit:
- Chapel Milton Viaduct
- Chinley Churn and Cracken Edge
- South Head
- Walk a section of the Pennine Bridleway
- Eccles Pike
Image credits: All images for this event were taken by the event leader and are used here with permission.
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- Unfortunately, there won’t be any planned pub / café stops en route or at the end, and please don’t share sweets or snacks with others – we’re sorry!
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What to bring
Boots: Hiking boots are arguably the most essential piece of kit when hiking just about anywhere. Walker’s should make sure that their boots are both waterproof and breathable, and provide good ankle support. Boots should also be in good condition.
Socks: Walking socks are often overshadowed by those new to hiking, with many novices failing to invest in proper socks. Good walking socks are essential in regards to keeping the feet dry, and in turn stopping the development of blisters. Sports socks and other socks not designed for walking will often become waterlogged, or damaged which will in turn blister feet.
Walking Trousers: Walking trousers should be of a windproof design and made of a rip stop material, that will stand up to walking through ferns and undergrowth. They should also ideally be water resistant, or at least not gain weight, and lose their insulation properties when wet. Jeans are therefore to be avoided, as they are heavy when wet and provide no protection from the elements.
Waterproof Trousers: Waterproof trousers are essential in keeping the legs dry, as water resistant trousers will not keep out any significant rainfall. Walker’s should look for waterproof trousers that are breathable, in order to avoid being soaked with sweat.
Base Layer: A breathable base layer should be chosen in order to let sweat escape from the body. This should ideally consist of a breathable synthetic, specially designed fabric, though a cotton T-Shirt is sufficient.
Mid Layer: A Mid Layer goes on top of the base layer and should consist of a 100 weight micro fleece, or a rugby typed thick shirt. The layering system is important as it allows walkers to quickly adapt to changes in the weather as well as body temperature.
Waterproof Jacket: A good waterproof jacket is one of the most important pieces of kit you will require when hiking. Walkers should look for a jacket that is both waterproof and breathable in order for them to be protected from sweat. Materials such as Gore-tex are often the best choices.
Hat: As most heat is lost through the head a good hat is essential. The best hats are those of a fleece design, with wool also being acceptable.
Rucksack: A good Rucksack that is comfortable to wear is essential, and required to carry both food and equipment. Day sacks should have a capacity of around 30 litres with equipment being placed in water proof bags inside.
Food & Water: At least two litres of water should be brought for each day hiking.. Enough food for the duration of a walk should also be taken. Food should be of the high energy variety.
Mobile Phone: A mobile phone should also be brought and kept in a waterproof bag for use in emergencies.
Food & drink
You will need a packed lunch plus snacks and also plenty of water (at least 2 litres).