Stockport Halls route

Stockport Community Cycling Club is a friendly leisure cycling club based in Stockport, Cheshire.

This circular route was originally devised more than 25 years ago by Stuart Johnson, a local cyclist and intrepid explorer of hidden routes. It follows several attractive river valleys and links most of Stockport's historic halls using many off-road tracks. The route was promoted locally, but in the early years mud and rights of way issues made it difficult to cycle some sections. More recently, paths and tracks have been improved and the route has evolved into a pleasant and accessible ride, with plenty of historic interest. The ride is an annual event in the Stockport Community Cycling Club calendar.

The route now starts at Ceracycloan on Swallow Street, off Higher Hillgate, SK1 3HJ. It never leaves Stockport, but passes or goes near to seven historic halls: Vernon Hall, Bredbury Hall, Goyt Hall, Offerton Hall, Bramall Hall, Bruntwood Hall and Abney Hall, returning along the Mersey Valley to the start. 

The route incorporates both roads and tracks. The roads are mainly quiet, though there are several short, busier parts linking the quiet sections. Some tracks are rougher than others but bikes with suitable tyres should be OK. Inevitably there are a few hills on a route around Stockport, but they should not deter those who can comfortably ride 15 to 20 miles. Tackle part of the route if you don't feel like doing the full circuit. 

Enjoy the tranquility and scenery in Stockport's parks and river valleys, with possible cafe stops at Vernon Park (1.3 miles), Bramall Hall (10 miles), Bruntwood Hall (13.3 miles) and Abney Hall Park (15.9 miles). Parking is available at most of the parks, for car assisted riding.