Background Image

Funded by the UK Government, the Mersey Valley Way in Greater Manchester is England's first designated national river walk.

placeholder

As well as the full 21km route, there are numerous shorter walks available along the route plus circular loop walks in and around the Mersey river valley.

placeholder

In partnership with Paddle UK, the free Mersey Paddle Trail allows paddlers to explore the River Mersey from Heaton Mersey in Stockport to Carrington in Trafford.

placeholder

Mersey Valley Way River Walk

Running 21km from the start of the River Mersey in Stockport town centre, the Mersey Valley Way is England's first designated national river walk.   

The mainly flat route follows the north bank of the River Mersey through Heaton Mersey, south Manchester and Trafford to Ashton-on-Mersey.

There are a wide range of shorter walks along the Mersey Valley Way route as well as circular walks looping around the main route.  There is a walk for all ages and abilities.

<h3>Paddle along the Mersey</h3>

Paddle along the Mersey

Working  in partnership with Paddle UK, the Mersey Paddle Trail provides a free opportunity to enjoy the river environment from the water.

Find out more

<h3>Self guided walks</h3>

Self guided walks

The Mersey Valley Way walking guide provides information on a variety of short and longer routes along the River Mersey in Greater Manchester.  Whatever time you have available, there is a route for you to explore the river.

Find out more

<h3>Upcoming events</h3>

Upcoming events

Look out for various events taking place along the Mersey Valley Way, from free guided walks to family fun activities and volunteering opportunities.

Find out more

<h3>Mersey Rivers Trust</h3>

Mersey Rivers Trust

Find out more about the work of Mersey Rivers Trust to help improve the health of rivers for people and wildlife across Greater Manchester, Merseyside and much of Cheshire.

Find out more

Frequently Asked Questions

We have compiled answers to some common questions opposite. 
If you have a question that is not covered here, please contact us at Mersey Rivers Trust. 

When will the Mersey Valley Way open?

What walks are right for me?

Where can we hire paddle equipment?

Mersey Valley Way Delivery Partners