Nature reserves
Healey Dell Nature Reserve
Healey Dell is a beauty
spot and wildlife sanctuary rich in industrial archaeology, two
miles from Rochdale town centre on the way to Whitworth and
Bacup.
The reserve is signposted from the A671 Rochdale-Bacup Road and
from the B6377 opposite Healey Hotel. Car parking is
available at Broadley Wood Lodge, off Station Road and
at the visitor centre.
The River Spodden has carved its way through the woodlands down
the thousands of years, creating delightful scenery and spectacular
waterfalls which once powered ancient corn, wool and cotton
mills.
A disused 1800s railway line is now a nature trail with
magnificent views from a 100-foot high viaduct.
The visitor centre has a permanent exhibition on the industrial
heritage of the reserve and details of guided walks and trails.
Please check for visitor centre opening hours.