New Delph, Dobcross & Austerlands

New Delph, Dobcross and Austerlands sit within Saddleworth in the Metropolitan Borough of Oldham, on the western edge of the South Pennines. The settlements follow the valley of the River Tame, with rows of stone houses, former mill buildings and small commercial streets that reflect the area's industrial past. Austerlands lies beside the A62, linking the valley to neighbouring towns, while Dobcross and New Delph form a cluster of lanes and village squares tucked into the hillside. Footpaths and minor roads lead up from the valley to open moorland and reservoir catchments above the villages.

Community life centers on parish halls, pubs and local clubs that serve the scattered farming and residential population. Each spring the Saddleworth Whit Friday tradition brings brass bands and processions through the lanes and greens, with live contests and short performances at specific village venues. That annual movement of bands, alongside scheduled walking routes into the surrounding hills, helps define local rhythms and gives the area a calendar of gatherings that draws residents from across the parish.