Goyt Valley

There’s something magical about the Goyt Valley – a long, secluded stretch of reservoirs, hills and moorland between Buxton and Whaley Bridge. Walks from here can take you along a Roman road, through the ruins of a once-grand mansion in the woods, past a shrine in a circular stone building perched on the hillside, and up onto Shining Tor, the highest point in Cheshire.

Most people start from the Errwood Hall car park, where there’s usually an ice cream van but no toilets, so go before you get here. (The nearest are at the Derbyshire Bridge car park further up the valley.)

From here, I often follow the signposted walk up through the woods to the ruins of Errwood Hall (a favourite spot for a picnic). Or if you’re looking for a full day of hiking, take the longer route along the ridge between Pym’s Chair, Cat’s Tor and Shining Tor.   

To get to the Goyt Valley without a car, catch the train from Manchester Piccadilly to the picturesque village of Whaley Bridge, making sure you stop at the Bridge Bakehouse on the way. The brownies there are something else – thank me later.