Greater Manchester has officially been named the UK’s leading destination for accessible nature walks, with new research revealing that the region is home to the country’s top-ranked trail.
A study conducted by care home provider Lovett Care Homes has crowned this spot near Greater Manchester as the most accessible walk in the UK, achieving a standout composite score of 78.89 out of 100.
Dovestone Reservoir Circular near Greater Manchester is the UK’s most accessible walk
The findings position Greater Manchester as a clear hotspot for inclusive outdoor experiences, with two walks in the national top 10 and a total of seven routes ranking among the UK’s best accessible trails.
Located in Dobcross within the Peak District, Dovestone Reservoir Circular secured the top spot thanks to its balance of accessibility and scenic appeal. The 4.3km loop trail features wide, level paths that make it suitable for wheelchair users, families with prams, and those with limited mobility.
The route also scored highly for user satisfaction, achieving a near-perfect 4.7-star rating from over 1,700 reviews, alongside an impressive 6,099 user-uploaded photos, making it the most photographed accessible walk in the UK.
Visitors can expect a varied landscape, from tranquil waterside paths to forested stretches, all framed by sweeping views of the Peak District hills. Its dog-friendly nature further enhances its appeal for a wide range of walkers.
Hollingworth Lake earned a place in the top 10 of the UK’s most accessible walks
Hollingworth Lake in Littleborough also earned a place in the top 10, ranking eighth with a score of 66.46. This 3.5km loop offers gentle terrain and minimal elevation, making it ideal for a relaxed stroll.
Known for its picturesque lakeside setting and abundant wildlife, the route is particularly popular among families and dog walkers. With nearly 1,000 photos shared by visitors, it provides a visually rewarding day out.
While the path is largely wheelchair-friendly, some sections may become muddy, meaning specialised tyres could be beneficial for certain users.
Accessible walks across the Northern region
Lyme Park (Access for All) in Stockport narrowly missed the top 10, placing 12th with a score of 65.91. Its short 1km loop around Mill Pond offers a low-effort, scenic route beginning at the historic Lyme Hall estate.
The flat, well-maintained paths and strong user ratings make it a popular choice for multi-generational visits, combining accessibility with heritage and natural beauty.
Greater Manchester is home to one of the most accessible walking routes, ranking within the UK’s top 100
Beyond these standout locations, Greater Manchester’s reputation for inclusive walking continues with several more routes ranking within the UK’s top 100. These include Clayton Vale River Medlock Circular, Kersal Wetlands Nature Walk, Dove Stone (Access for All), and the River Etherow Path.
How the rankings were decided
The research analysed 289 walking routes across the UK, using nine key criteria to assess accessibility. These included factors such as route length, elevation, estimated completion time, difficulty, user reviews, and whether the walk is dog-friendly.
Additional metrics, such as photos per kilometre and route type, were also considered, with loop trails receiving higher scores for practicality.
Each factor was scored out of 10 and combined to create a final ranking, ensuring that only genuinely accessible and well-reviewed routes made the list.
Dawn Collett, Deputy Managing Director at Lovett Care, said the research highlights the importance of making nature accessible to all.
She explained: “We know that a breath of fresh air and a change of scenery can work wonders for health and happiness. By analysing extensive trail data, we’ve identified these ‘gold standard’ walks that allow everyone including those using wheelchairs or walking aids—to enjoy the outdoors safely with loved ones.”
