Summer Holiday Activities in Saddleworth
Saddleworth is a beautiful collection of villages on the edge of the peak district and not too far from Manchester. The big city nearby offers many a summer holiday activity but what about throughout Saddleworth itself? The villages may be picturesque but they're no less playful, so here are 5 Saddleworth summer holiday activities you can enjoy over the coming months!
Grab an Ice Cream
Nothing says summer quite like an Ice Cream! A ninety-nine may've outgrown its name, but there are still few better feelings than enjoying a Mr Whippy in the sun. Amazingly, Saddleworth manages to go one better, thanks to its local Ice Cream Parlour Grandpa Greene's, which has a few establishments, from Dingle to Uppermill. The classics are on offer but so are flavours like Rum & Raisin, Raspberry Pavlova and Lemon Meringue. Their luxury award-winning ice cream makes for a perfect summer holiday treat!
Climb the peaks
Given Saddleworth's position amongst the peak district, it would be silly to overlook the many hikes and adventure routes at your disposal. Head to Dove Stone Reservoir and embrace the surrounding nature reserve, or don your walking boots and begin your ascent up Pots and Pans, a rock formation that sits at the peak of the hill between Uppermill, Greenfield and Dovestones.
Alternatively, take a mooch down a converted railway line, known locally as Delph Donkey, and enjoy the stroll complete with information boards detailing the history of the railway. Whatever your chosen adventure, climbing the peaks is a brilliant summer holiday activity for beginners and seasoned hikers alike.
Find a bargain
Villages and market towns are filled with vendors selling unique items, from crafts to clothes and everything in between. Saddleworth also boasts an impressive selection of eateries and restaurants, perfect for a light bite or even something more substantial. But perhaps the most exciting is the selection of second-hand shops.
Uppermill has a few smaller shops to its name, but nothing can quite match the magnitude of Emmaus charity shop in Mossley. The converted mill is set across two floors plus a warehouse and is full of unique items and vintage memorabilia, plus the usual electronics, furniture, books and records you'd expect. There's a cafe on-site too and collectively, Emmaus helps to support people who were previously homeless, so you can grab a bargain whilst supporting a noble cause, and that's a worthy activity for anyone on a summer holiday in Saddleworth!
Learn the local history
School may be out, but there's still lots to learn in Saddleworth over the summer holidays. Saddleworth has a rich heritage and interesting history, to say the least. For one, it was classed as Yorkshire up until 1972, which is why lots of its architecture, atmosphere and sprawling retail feel more akin to the villages across the Pennines compared to others in Lancashire.
The walks and trails in the area are intricately connected to Saddleworth's past, with the monuments and routes adorning plaques that offer a glimpse into times gone by. Head to the Saddleworth Museum for a more structured breakdown of the area's past and take a deeper look at the area's Roman history, political background and the rise of the weaving trade. It's open 1pm - 4pm and has a cool shop to accompany the exhibitions.
Soak up the Scenery
The peaks are renowned and reward those committed enough for an uphill hike, with stunning views, but what about something a little less taxing on the legs? Thankfully, due to the endless charm on display throughout Uppermill and the rest of the villages, there are much easier ways to soak up the scenery for anyone looking for a slightly softer summer holiday stroll through Saddleworth.
The Huddersfield Narrow Canal is a fantastic option, and you can customise the route depending on your preference. The stretch through Uppermill is particularly beautiful, and the short walk showcases the area's lovely viaduct. There are cafes at either side too for some much-needed refreshments. Of course, there's nothing wrong with starting in Uppermill and commencing your own route. The natural beauty of the village and surrounding country is immediately noticeable, and the local vendors and historical decor only add to Saddleworth's allure.
