Unity Mill Loop

The Viaduct

The first stretch of the route takes you straight past the fishing ponds, where you'll spot herons, coots, moorhens and other waterfowl. You'll see in the distance the viaduct. Head towards this and you'll find the river and pass underneath it. This area is popular amongst locals as a swimming spot.

The viaduct is a behemoth when you are stood under it. It's a landmark for a large part of the walk, both at the beginning and end.

From under the viaduct, you pass into meadows, shadowing the River Tame. Here you may find horses. They are a friendly bunch and may come over for a pet.

The Meander

Walking along through the meadows, it will feel miles from anywhere. When walking this myself, I passed a man walking his dog who exclaimed, "Oh, I haven't seen anyone for hours!" I could well understand why, having seen no-one else for quite a distance.

You'll pass under the motorway, which is significantly less striking than the viaduct, and you can mutter to any companions, "They don't make them like they used to." After some time following the path, you'll have to cross the A road. This can be busy at times, so take care.

The Ancient Oak

The next stretch follows the River Tame as it carves a small gorge through the local area. Along this stretch of woodland, you will find the ancient oak.

A local spot, this is as it says. A very old, very big oak tree, that straddles the edge of the river. Its routes make a good bench to sit on, and the trunk leans over the river. Not for people uncertain around heights, though I recommend checking it out as it's a good setting for photos.

From the oak, follow the path along the river for a couple kilometres.

The Canal

Once you follow the river for a couple kilometres, you'll see a bridge. Head over the river, and follow the footpath signs to the canal. This section is flat and easy going, just be careful of cyclists, as it is also a cycleway.

Unity Mill

You'll see Unity Mill. There's no missing it. A giant relic of the industrial age, and now abandoned. There is a bridge over the canal, with several footpaths on the other side. Should you want to do some urban exploration, it's a great spot, and I'm sure the intrepid amongst you will find a way in.

This is also a good spot for lunch.

Back to the River

After passing the mill, take a right off the canal. The footpath can be hard to spot, so keep your eyes peeled. This takes you back to the Tame, past a kennel which featured some excellent dogs when I passed it.

From here, there are two options. You can cross the bridge and go back along the same path you came from, or stay on this side.

Through Brinnington

From here, you can head through an old public footpath. This section was somewhat overgrown, so the alternate route is to follow the lane round.

Zigzag through the industrial estate and cross a footbridge over the motorway, and you are back in Reddish Vale Country Park. Follow the footpaths through the fields on the right, and you will see the viaduct come back into view. Passing under it, you'll again pass the local people's favourite picnic spot.

Back to the Start

From here you will see the path you started on, crossing the fishing ponds. Enjoy the walk back, and maybe get a cream tea from the stables on your way back.