Please note that temporary re-routing can affect all stages of the GM Ringway, sometimes at very short notice. For the latest updates on any diversions we are aware of, please check the latest ‘Detours and Trail Updates’ information. This can be found on each individual GM Ringway stage profile in the ‘Routes’ section of this site.

Note that even where the GM Ringway is fully open, many areas are likely be damp and muddy after recent wet weather.

Stage 1: Fully open.

Stage 2: Fully open apart from the diversion due to the closure of Bailey’s Bridge near Chorlton Water Park. We have now heard from Manchester City Council that a new bridge will be in place from summer 2026, which will finally allow walkers to use the original route via Kenworthy Woods.

Stage 3: A diversion is in place along the Ladybrook Valley west of Bramhall Park due to path improvement works from March to late July 2026. This has been updated on the Plotaroute map and on the Go Jauntly app. The path in Carr Wood may also be uneven and muddy after recent works.

Stage 4  Fully open, although the path in Carr Wood near Bramhall maybe uneven and muddy after recent works (similar to Stage 3 above).

Stage 5: Fully open but with some missing waymarks near Disley Golf Course on the section north of the A6 (after exiting Lyme Park). Please follow the route on the Go Jauntly app or Plotaroute site if necessary.

Stages 6 and 7: Fully open.

Stage 8: Fully open. However, due to the challenging terrain on this stage, you might want to follow our Stage 8 alternative route on the Plotaroute map (also detailed as a standalone walk with step-by-step instructions on the Go Jauntly app).

Stages 9 and 10: Fully open.

Stage 11: Two major diversions are currently in place, but they add no extra mileage to the overall route. The first – right at the start – involves following Hare Hill Road and then Calderbook Road from Littleborough town centre to join the route shortly after the 1.5-mile/2.5-km point. The second involves the temporary closure of the viaduct  at Healey Dell (until mid-July 2026). Instead, follow the main route through the gorge as far as Healey Dell Tearooms, and then retrace your steps to return to Station Road. There turn left to re-join the main route. Both diversions have been updated on the Go Jauntly app, and on the Stage 11 Plotaroute map.

Stages 12, 13 and 14: Fully open.

Stage 15: Fully open but with a permanent diversion for those with dogs due to restrictions at Worthington Lakes.

Stages 16, 17, 18 and 19: Fully open.

Stage 20: Fully walkable with a minor diversion in the city centre where the trail crosses the River Irwell. Visit the Stage 20 route page and see ‘Detours and trail updates’.

For any specific questions, feedback or guidance, feel free to email us at info@gmringway.org.