This path is part of the Manchester Cycleway, running from Chorlton to Highfield. It's known variously as the 'Fallowfield Loop Line' or Sustrans route 6. It's approximately 6 miles each way.
Getting There
The start point is near to St Werburgs Road Tram stop (on Airport and East Didsbury line). It's a residential area, so on street parking is availalable but probably hotly contested. It's probably better to park at East Didsbury park and ride and take the tram.Trail Conditions
It's a trail of 2 halves really. There is an obvious break in the trail where you have to cross Wilmslow Road on foot and rejoin the trail near Sainsbury's in Fallowfield.Chorlton to Fallowfield
Wide, slightly rough textured tarmac. Lots of grip for poles, and smooth enough to skate on. There are a couple of places where tree roots have deformed the tarmac. Pretty level until you get to Fallowfield, where there is a steep uphill to road level.
No services at the start, though there is a supermarket and cafes in Fallowfield.
This section is approximately 1 3/4 miles long. The path is used by cyclists, pedestrians and dog walkers but most people seem to have cleaned up after themselves. This is probably an option for a quick after work/early morning rollerski if you live in the area.
Fallowfield to Debdale
This part of the trail is more undulating, with dips going under road beds. Probably no worse than those on the UCLAN track, but with a lot less space when things go wrong. These dips could be treacherous, as there were incredibly slippy mud/silt patches. Approach these with caution.
There was a also a section near a new housing development where tree roots had badly affected the surface, deforming it enough so you could end up 'beached' by the lumps. I turned round before Highfield station as I was getting tired - there is supposed to be a pub at that end of the trail but I didn't get there. There are some pubs/shops/McDonalds a short walk from the trail near Debdale lake.
