Ashes Clough

Valley in Yorkshire

England

Ashes Clough

Hartshead Pike Well Often marked as a well on maps is this the site of the original tower on the summit of the hill? — Hartshead Pike Well Credit: Kevin Waterhouse

Ashes Clough is a picturesque valley located in the heart of Yorkshire, England. Nestled amidst the rolling hills and lush greenery, it offers a tranquil and idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The valley is characterized by its steep slopes, rocky outcrops, and meandering streams that add to its natural beauty.

Covered in a carpet of wildflowers during the spring and summer months, Ashes Clough is a haven for nature enthusiasts and hikers. The valley boasts a diverse ecosystem, supporting a wide array of flora and fauna. Visitors can spot various species of birds, including woodpeckers and owls, as well as small mammals like rabbits and squirrels.

The walking trails in Ashes Clough cater to all levels of hikers, offering routes of varying difficulty. From leisurely strolls along the valley floor to challenging uphill climbs, there is something for everyone. The paths are well-maintained, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors.

At the heart of the valley lies a tranquil stream, providing a peaceful ambiance for picnickers and those seeking solace in nature. The sound of running water adds to the serenity of the surroundings, creating a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection.

Ashes Clough is also rich in history, with remnants of old mills and stone bridges that offer a glimpse into the area's past. The valley has been a source of inspiration for artists and writers over the years, with its breathtaking landscapes and ever-changing colors.

In conclusion, Ashes Clough is a hidden gem in Yorkshire, offering a serene and picturesque retreat for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Its natural beauty, diverse ecosystem, and well-maintained trails make it a must-visit destination for those seeking tranquility amidst stunning landscapes.

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Ashes Clough Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 53.536628/-2.0648557 or Grid Reference SD9504. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Hartshead Pike Well

Often marked as a well on maps is this the site of the original tower on the summit of the hill?

Kevin Waterhouse

Cricket Pitch

thejackrustles

Slack Hall Trig Point Flush Bracket S2785

thejackrustles

Cricket Pitch

thejackrustles

Brown Edge Trig Point Flush Bracket S2784

thejackrustles

Views towards Hartshead Pike Tower

thejackrustles

Cycle route following line of former railway

This view across Cranbrook Street just off the path shows the route is on the top of infill, since only the bridge parapet is visible of the former railway bridge. The path is on the former Oldham to Greenfield line.

Kevin Waterhouse

Cycle path following route of former railway

The path is approaching the former railway bridge at St. John Street which is one of the few not infilled on the route. The path runs from Oldham to Grotton along the former line to Greenfield.

Kevin Waterhouse

River Medlock at Lees

View on the Medlock Valley Way from a footbridge

Kevin Waterhouse

The end of the cycle path

View towards Old Mill Lane at Grotton. The cycle path has followed the route of the former Oldham to Greenfield railway but deviates here to join Old Mill Lane.

Kevin Waterhouse

Route of former railway at Grotton

View from the former Grotton Station towards Lees on the Greenfield to Oldham railway route. A cycle path exists on the Grotton to Oldham portion of the route.

Kevin Waterhouse

Steps on the Medlock Trail

Steps down from the Abbey Hills Road embankment to the River Medlock

Kevin Waterhouse

Missing footbridge on Oldham Way

Presumably there was a bridge between the sets of steps in Rowton Clough on the named trail

Kevin Waterhouse

Former Oldham Equitable Co-operative Building

At the junction of Huddersfield and Ripponden Roads. A listed building now used by various businesses

Kevin Waterhouse

Old milestone

This West Riding CC milestone was to be set on the opposite side of the road to Huddersfield 13 and 14 so the place names are forged on opposite faces. In this area always a lot to fit in on the upper section though. Austerlands must have been the limit of the West Riding in 1893/94 as this is the furthest west of the milestones on the Wakefield/Huddersfield/Oldham route.

Chris Minto

Old milestone

The milestone is leaning back slightly in front of the wooden fence but it has been in place since 1893/94. The Wakefield to Austerlands turnpike first enacted in 1759 is recorded as being 27.4 miles long. On the West Riding milestones it is 13¼ miles from Wakefield to Huddersfield plus 15 miles to this most westerly milestone ie 28¼. But the route will have changed slightly. On Jeffrey's 1775 map the distance given for Huddersfield to Austerlands is 12 miles and it is known that the early routes followed old packhorse trails.

Chris Minto

Old milestone

This old milestone has been recycled as the right hand side of an outbuilding doorway on Thorpe Lane. The inscription is Saddle/worth/3M/hand to right. The building was once part of a tollhouse.

Chris Minto

Old Milestone by UC road, Platting Lane, Lydgate; opposite entrance to Load Hill Farm, 100m North of Grotton Hall

The Milestone is located on the verge 100m from 30 sign on the East of the road. Parish of Saddleworth (Oldham District). Metal plate attached to stone post, Brayshaw & Booth iron casting design, erected by the County Council in the 19th Century. An earlier photograph can be found here: Link Inscription reads:- MANCHESTER/10½ MILES /ASHTON/4¾ MILES /UPPER MILL/2½ MILES / MOSSLEY/2½ MILES : : HUDDERSFIELD/15 MILES: : STOCKPORT & ASHTON/ROAD/QUICK MERE LD : : BRAYSHAW & BOOTH/MAKERS/LIVERSEDGE Milestone Society National ID: YW_SRAS04

Nigel Upton

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Ashes Clough is located at Grid Ref: SD9504 (Lat: 53.536628, Lng: -2.0648557)

Division: West Riding

Unitary Authority: Oldham

Police Authority: Greater Manchester