The GM Ringway is Greater Manchester’s walking trail. Covering all ten boroughs of the city-region, the 200-mile trail explores an astonishing variety of natural and historical sites. Easily accessed by public transport, each of the trail’s 20 stages offers a unique walking experience.
Manchester - Sale Water Park
Stage 1 is a tranquil, largely traffic-free route from the city centre to Sale Water Park tram stop.
Sale Water Park - Didsbury
Stage 2 links Sale Water Park and Didsbury Village tram stations via the verdant Mersey Valley.
Didsbury Village - Bramhall
This walk follows the pretty Ladybrook Valley via parks, riverside paths and beautiful Bramall Hall.
Bramhall - Middlewood
This stage takes you from the leafy suburbs into open countryside, with lovely riverside scenery.
Strines - Marple
This stage explores Mellor Moor and the Goyt Valley with some stunning Peak District views.
Middlewood - Strines
This scenic route takes you the edge of the Peak District via canals, woods and historic Lyme Park.
Marple - Broadbottom
This stage includes canals, valleys and Etherow and Werneth Low country parks, with views galore!
Broadbottom - Greenfield
Route fully open as of September 2026.
Greenfield - Newhey
This hilly stage visits pretty villages and explores the stunning moorland scenery of Saddleworth.
Stretford - Manchester
The final stage includes waterside paths, vibrant Salford Quays and historical sites and museums.
Altrincham - Stretford
On this varied route, you explore the waterways, nature reserves and parks of Altrincham and Sale.
Bury - Bromley Cross
This varied route includes the Irwell Valley, views from the Peel Tower, and a hilltop village.
Newhey - Littleborough
This adventurous stage includes parts of the Pennine Way, scenic reservoirs and a 'Roman Road'!
Irlam - Altrincham
This leisurely walk explores the tranquil Bollin Valley & the National Trust's Dunham Massey estate.
Littleborough - Norden
This adventurous stage offers wide moorland views and includes the spectacular gorge of Healey Dell.
Wigan - Leigh
This watery walk explores England's newest National Nature Reserve: the Flashes of Wigan and Leigh.
Bromley Cross - Blackrod
This tough but rewarding stage includes historic Smithills Hall and an ascent of iconic Winter Hill.
Norden - Bury
This long but scenic stage includes Knowl Hill, peaceful valleys and a pretty village.
