Shawclough & Healey November 2021

Syke Walk & Talk Group
WALK TO WATERGROVE VIA LOBDEN
The route is about 5.5 miles and is
moderately demanding involving a
fairly steep climb of about one mile
from Syke to Lobden. Most of the
route is on surfaced roads and paths
but strong footwear is recommended.
Leaving Syke Chapel head north on Dewhirst
road which climbs steeply to Lobden golf
course.
After just over half a mile there is a signpost
on the left. Turn right here. The path descends
quite steeply into Long Shoot Clough where it
becomes a cobbled track.
Take care the cobbles can be slippery when
wet. At the bottom of the Clough take the path
to the right. The path runs along the western
side of Watergrove with good views of the
reservoir and at the southern end through a
wooded area.
The surfaced road goes to the left and
downhill to Whitworth but continue ahead
along the trackway in front of you which leads
on to an embankment.
Turn right following the trackway along the
top of the embankment. This is the course of
a tramway which carried coal from Cartridge
Nook Colliery to Lobden. The site of the
colliery is marked by spoil heaps to your left.
In front of you is a gateway. Go through the
gate and follow the track which bends to the
left. The undulating route passes the remains
of several farms demolished when Watergrove
reservoir was constructed in the 1930’s.
About 40 yards before the gate a path leads
off to the right. Take this path which leads you
down on to Clough House lane.
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