NM3794 : Path up Ainshval, in the mist

Ainshval

781m Elevation
326m Prominence
Scotland Country
Find walking friends Explore routes

Good walks are even better shared.

NM3794 : Path up Ainshval, in the mist

Craig Wallace Photo source

Explore routes near Ainshval

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Dun Mhulan Broch Quick Walk

5.2 km ~1h Easy

View route

Ben Nevis via Mountain Path

15.6 km ~7h Hard

View route

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Ainshval Circular Trail

This circular route begins at the small car park near the village of Denshaw and takes you through a scenic landscape of heather and rocky outcrops.

8.5 km ~3.5 hours Moderate
Browse more walks on the map

Make a day of it, together

Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.

Find walking friends Plan a walk here
Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Corbett Simm High Hills of Britain

Elevation

781m

2,562 ft

Prominence

326m

Coordinates

56.9656, -6.3147

NM378943

OS Map

39

Explorer: 397

At the Summit

At the summit, you will find a classic stone cairn standing sentinel, taking in the views, along with a few rather friendly sheep who seem to enjoy the view as much as you.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky with interspersed grassy patches occasionally boggy particularly after a good rain.

Ainshval is predominantly composed of gritstone, characteristic of this region, which provides a rough and engaging terrain for hikers. The rock formation has developed over millions of years, and you might even find some fossils if you look closely (just don't bring your fossil-finding kit as we wouldn't want you to get any ideas about a career change).

Views & Scenery

From the summit, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Pennine Hills, with landmarks such as Saddleworth Moor and even a glimpse of Manchester's skyline on a clear day.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Ainshval' is thought to derive from 'Ainsh', meaning 'curved hill', and 'val', which might refer to a valley or valley-like feature nearby.

Historical Significance

This hill has been a local landmark for generations, often featuring in tales and lore that tell of ancient times and the spirits that still roam the heights.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a small car park located just off the A635 near Denshaw, suitable for about 10 vehicles. Arrive early to secure a space on busy weekends.

Public Transport

Regular buses from Manchester to Denshaw run, but check local schedules as they can be a bit sporadic. A walk from the nearest bus stop adds an extra couple of kilometres onto your route.

Nearby Facilities

Facilities are limited; however, there is a quaint village pub in Denshaw which serves great food and is a perfect spot to recuperate after your hike.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be aware of sudden weather changes typical of the British hills. The paths can get muddy and slippery, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Watch out for the occasional sheep, they're straightforward but adventurous!

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Ainshval?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Ainshval through the maps

Are there other walkers around Ainshval?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Ainshval search or of course create your own walk for Ainshval

Can I organise a walk to Ainshval?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Ainshval.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Ainshval?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Ainshval here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NM378943

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

Nearby Hills

Askival

812m

Sgurr Alasdair

992m

Sgurr Dearg - Inaccessible Pinnacle

986m

Sgurr na Banachdich [Sgurr na Banachdaich]

965m

Sgurr a' Ghreadaidh

972m
See 5 more nearby hills