What we’re about
We’re the MAD (Manchester and District) walkers. Since 2004 we’ve been hosting regular hikes for Manchester people in their 20s and 30s. Our website, with our full events programme, can be found at https://www.madwalkers.org.uk/
Our walks range from short & easy, great for new starters, to long and challenging routes for those looking to push themselves. Most events are accessible by public transport, taking advantage of Manchester’s comprehensive rail network. Once at the walk start location, we’ll gather for a short introduction — just look for the large group of people in hiking boots! Our weekend walks often attract 30 people — not everyone will RSVP on Meetup, so don’t worry if the attendee list looks small.
Beyond walks, we also host regular social events. Our monthly drinks meet-up is a great way to get to know the group. Members and new-joiners are welcome, just drop-in at a time that suits you.
Occasionally we also organise weekend trips away, which is a great way to experience areas outside the immediate reach of Manchester. Typically we book out an entire hostel or campsite for the weekend and offer an all-in price to come along. For our DIY weekends, members arrange their own food and accommodation, meeting at the hike start.
The MAD Walkers are part of the Ramblers, Britain’s walking charity: https://www.ramblers.org.uk/. All our events are not-for-profit and run by volunteers. New joiners are welcome to come along to 3 walks for free, after which point we ask people to become a member. An individual membership is around £43 a year, which unlocks benefits like socials, weekends away, access to our members-only Facebook group and discounts at local retailers.
For more information, and our full events programme, check out our website at https://www.madwalkers.org.uk/
Hopefully we’ll see you soon.
Upcoming events (2)
See all- Boothstead Edge and the Tame Valley Way - a 9 mile hike with Steven O'HareManchester Victoria Station, Manchester
A simple but straightforward walk taking in a few of my favourite paths and quiet roads from the place I've called home for the last 10 years. Hopefully it'll be dry and clear, allowing me to share the views with you that I've come to enjoy.
The climbing is spread over two separate sections, one from the start of the walk and the other about two-thirds in. We'll take our time with these. It'll be solid underfoot. Expect some of the nicest countryside hills you can access from a tram, and some of the cheapest drinks you can buy in Greater Manchester at the end destination.
Itinerary:
09:45 - Meet at Manchester Victoria
09:55 - Tram departs for the walk start at Shaw and Crompton
10:30 - Walk starts at Shaw and Crompton
17:00 (approx) - Walk ends at Shaw and CromptonDetails:
Walk rating: Moderate (Suitable for people with previous country walking experience)
Distance: 9.3 miles
Ascent: 500mImportant information:
For full walk details and guidance on preparation, please see our page at https://www.madwalkers.org.uk/walks/On the day of travel, be sure to check the website again, in case of any unexpected disruption to the walk.