Great Cliff of Kersal

A route taking in local historical spots like The Cliff, and the lush green spaces of Kersal Dale. All hidden away behind the estates.

Distance

4.5km

Elevation

Flat

Terrain

Trail

Time

1:15 hrs

OS Map

View here

Starts at

Kersal

Route Type

Circular

The Route

This route is great for exploring Salford's history, and some gorgeous forests and wetlands. In just a short walk you can see lots, and a strolling pace is best to take in the scenery.

The Gatehouse

Heading down the road, you will see the old gatehouse. Now a salesroom, it is easy to miss. But this is the original gatehouse punters would use to get to the racecourse, which once occupied the space that is now Kersal Bowl. The gates are also original and lead to the bowl.

However, on this route, continue across Cromwell Road and turn left following the road up to The Cliff.

The Cliff

The Cliff is a famous spot in Salford. Broughton Playing fields boasts the starting place of Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes. Up the road is Manchester United's training ground. The houses are spectacular, and much of the design dates back to the late 1800s and early 1900s.

At the top is an old tram line, which no longer runs. Turning left here up a ginal will lead you to Kersal Dale.

Kersal Dale

Heading down the path into Kersal Vale, the paths start to criss cross, and the best thing to do is wander aimlessly. The dense forest is full of old trees, floor cover and new saplings striking forth. The forest used to be the grounds of Castle Irwell, an estate for a rich noble, so there are lots of small hidden sights to see. The locals also use the area for causing mischief. Including a random brick mosaic which appeared overnight and no-one understands.

The Field

Breaking out of the forest, you enter a field that spans the rivers edge. It's much more open and the wildflowers can be seen most of spring and summer.

Follow the river round, until you come to the bridge and cross over.

Kersal Bowl

After crossing the bridge, you come to Kersal Bowl. You can turn left or right, but left is the longer option. There is a causeway ringing the bowl. The centre is a bird reserve, with swans, goosanders and other waterfowl. The river also has Kingfishers, if you have the patience to try and see one.

The Hut

As you complete a circuit of the bowl, you will reach the second hut. The artwork on these is by a local artist, Kelzo. The circuit will take you back past The Cliff and Broughton Playing Field. You take the second exist, next to the painted hut, and you can then cut through the new estate there, which has a pond garden for that extra touch of greenery before you return to the start.