Roch Valley – Heywood, Rochdale

Roch Valley is an 8-hectare nature site of biological importance due to the presence of lowland hay meadow species such as meadow saxifrage. The Valley is part of the wider green corridor following the River Roch through the heart of Rochdale.

It is nestled between Queen’s Park and Springfield Park and is a remote haven for wildlife. Roch Valley consists of the hay meadow adjacent to the river with scattered trees and hedgerows across the site and several ponds.

This is a great nature site for dog walking, bird watching and insect hunts. There have even been sightings of barn owls there and in the evening, there is likely a chance of spotting birds of prey!

Volunteers wanted

Updated July 2026

Himalayan balsam, an invasive species, is quickly making it’s way into Roch Valley and, if left unchecked, will cause significant damage the ecosystem. Management plans are in place but volunteers are needed to help remove this invasive species before its too late.

CORPORATE VOLUNTEERS GROUPS ARE WELCOME AT ROCH VALLEY, WITH A SMALL FEE REQUIRED TO COVER OUR TEAM’S TIME, CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS.

We’d love to host open volunteering events at Roch Valley too, however recently attendance has been very low. If you’re interested in future sessions, please complete the survey below stating the locations and dates where you can volunteer.

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Getting to Roch Valley

Car Parking is available at Heywood Cemetery and there is footpath access on Rochdale Road East. There is also a path through the cemetery to the nature site.

Co-ordinates for the nature site are: 53°36’07.6″N 2°12’04.1″W