Historic Castlefield Walk
Take a wander through 2000 years of history. From Manchester's Roman origins to becoming the first Industrial Revolution powerhouse through the contemporary developments making the city what it is today. Find out more about the stories of people, place and nature on this short but varied urban walk.
Near to
Castlefield ViaductStart point
Castlefield Viaduct entrance gate, M3 4LGTrail information
Difficulty
Full trail
DistanceMiles: 1.5 (km: 2.4)Slippery paths
Be aware of slippery bridges and paths in winter or wet weather.
Total stages: 8
Total stages: 8
Start point
Castlefield Viaduct entrance gate, M3 4LG
Stage 1
Come down from the viaduct using the steps. Turn right. On your left, you'll see the reconstructions of the Roman fort Mamucium. Head forward towards the gate to the Roman Gardens.
Stage 2
Walk through the reconstructed Roman gateway into the Roman Gardens towards Liverpool Road.
Stage 3
Turn left down Liverpool road and across the street you'll see Science and Industry Museum.
Stage 4
Turn left off Liverpool Road just before the Castle Hotel and head down the stairs towards the canal basin.
Stage 5
Follow the Bridgewater canal towpath under the railway arches and over a small bridge to reach Merchants Bridge.
Stage 6
Cross the Merchant's Bridge and turn left to continue along the Bridgewater canal towpath on that side until you reach a small bridge.
Stage 7
Continue along the Bridgewater towpath and cross over another bridge.
Stage 8
Climb the steps to Castle Street and follow it to the Lock Keeper's Cottage by the entrance to the Rochdale Canal.
End point
Continue past Catalan Square with its bars and back underneath the viaduct (don't forget to look up!) and you'll arrive back at the staircase leading to Castlefield Viaduct.
Trail map
Historic Castlefield walk | © National Trust Images
Get in touch
Castlefield Viaduct, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M3 4LG