Hidden away less than half an hour from Oldham, there's a secret spot with a magical history, waterfall and even a fairy bridge.
Healey Dell Nature Reserve, over in Rochdale, is tucked away underneath a viaduct and in a narrow gorge historically known as 'The Thrutch'.
It's here that exploring visitors can find its secret waterfall and fairy bridge.
There's also a hidden cavern, known as the fairies' chapel, in which can be found a pulpit, as well as reading desks and seats.
Of course, modern geography states that caverns are formed through water corrosion, but the Healey Dell Heritage Centre wonders differently.
According to the centre, local legend says Healey Dell's fairy cavern was created when a fairy king turned a coven of witches to stone.
Located only a 25-minute drive from the centre of Oldham, the nature reserve has plenty to do, including visiting the heritage centre itself, grabbing a bite to eat at the tea rooms and exploring the woods.
The heritage centre includes fascinating histories of the site, including both factual heritage such as the nomadic tribes which built the area as well as the fantastical legends.
Videos showing off the 'hidden gem' beauty spot on social media sites such as TikTok have been gaining popularity and it is not hard to explain why.
@sarah_walking_ I cannot recommed visiting Healey Dell enough! Parking: Dell Road, OL12 6GB Tea Rooms: Open Thurs-Sunday Waterfalls: ///rivers.silk.vouch #walkingroutes #manchester #hiddengems #rochdale #hiking #waterfalls #CapCut #tearooms #alltrails #healeydellnaturereserve #greatermanchester @UK Hidden Gems ♬ IDK You Yet (Cover) - Bertie Newman
Not only is there a waterfall and cave on site, but also a 'fairy bridge' and multiple adventure trails.
The trails vary in difficulty, there is even one which is accessible to large mobility vehicles and another which can be used by some mobility vehicles, but not all.
The slightly trickier and narrower trails are only useable for walkers.
Other features along the trails include a bluebell field, stone rubbing mill, wood mill and there's even spaces to park.
Google reviews say the reserve is a great place to take a picnic and that it has a 'magical' feel.
One review said: "Healey Dell Nature Reserve is a stunning escape into nature's embrace.
"With its lush trees, picturesque waterfall, and two impressive viaducts, it's a haven for anyone seeking tranquillity and beauty."
How to get to Healey Dell Nature Reserve
Road Directions
Signposted from A671 Rochdale-Bacup Road and from B6377 opposite Healey Hotel.
Car parking at Broadley Wood Lodge, off Station Road and at the Ranger Office, Healey Hall Mills, Dell Road, Shawclough, Rochdale.
Public Transport Directions
Buses 446, 464, and 466 from Rochdale Bus Station. The nearest railway station is Rochdale.
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