21 Great Reasons to Visit the High Peak - Deep Mid-Wicket

Deep Mid-Wicket Holiday Cottage, Buxworth, High Peak 

21 Great Reasons to Visit the High Peak District 

Places to go, things to do and great food and drink to enjoy. 

A real smorgasbord of High Peak experiences. 

This mini guide is for anyone thinking of visiting the High Peak in the Peak District. The 

area, rich in natural beauty, open wild spaces, cultural and historical heritage, villages 

and market towns, has lots to offer every kind of visitor. You will find some well known 

and obvious inclusions here but also some lesser known and slightly left of field things 

to do too. 

If you enjoy walking, climbing, good food, all things furry or feathered, cycling, riding, 

running, photography, history, real ale, tea shops or beautiful scenery there is 

something in here for you. 

Where is the High Peak? 

Just to clarify: 

The High Peak is the most northern part of the Peak District as well as being the most 

northerly administrative region of Derbyshire. It is bordered by West Yorkshire, South 

Yorkshire, Cheshire, Staffordshire, Greater Manchester and the rest of Derbyshire to the 

south. 

Just to add a bit of confusion, this guide goes slightly beyond the exact boundaries of the 

High Peak in order to include some real gems that are close by. It includes most of the 

Dark Peak to the north, a small part of the White Peak to the south, and things both 

inside and outside the Peak District National Park boundary. 

With a map in front of you, you can draw a rather rough circle starting in the north at 

Black Hill going clockwise to include; The Derwent Valley and Ladybower Reservoir, 

Hathersage, Eyam, Millers Dale, Sterndale Moor, Harpur Hill, Shining Tor, Kettleshulme, 

Marple, Tintwistle and back to Black Hill 

The guide does not attempt to cover all of the interesting and exciting things to do in the 

High Peak (impossible in just one issue) so this is the first in a series of mini guides to 

the area that I will be putting together over the year, so watch this space for future 

editions. 

So with that clear let’s get exploring this fantastic part of the Peak District and see 

what’s out there for you to enjoy. 

Tel: 01603 271827 e-mail: bookings@highpeakdistrictcottage.com 

www.highpeakdistrictcottage.com


1. Upper Peak Forest Canal 

Location 

Buxworth, High Peak District SK23 7NE 

Whaley Bridge, High Peak District SK23 7LS 

New Mills, High Peak District SK22 3HA 

Marpel, Stockport SK6 6BJ 

The Peak Forest Canal runs 15 miles from Ashton under Lyne to 

Buxworth in the Peak District. The 7 mile long upper section from 

Marple through to the terminus in Buxworth was opened in 1796. It was 

built to transport limestone from the quarries around Dove Holes & 

Chapel-en-le-Frith out to the industrial centres in the north of England. 

As with most stretches of canal in the north of England it is a great feat of human endeavour and 

technical engineering. The main features are the tramway canal interchange at Bugsworth 

Basin, Marple aqueduct taking the canal 100 feet over the River Goyt and the 16 locks at Marple 

raising the canal 209 feet over the space of 1 mile. Bugsworth or Buxworth? For an explanation 

you need to have a look at our website (not enough space here!)XXXXXX 

This seven mile stretch of canal and towpath provides a great level walk or cycle through the 

industrial heritage and scenic countryside of the High Peak District. 

More Information 

Peak Forest Canal - www.penninewaterways.co.uk/peak/ 

Buxton Tourist Information Centre – Tel: 01298 25106 

Getting There 

You can access the towpath at many points along its length but the obvious place to start a walk 

is Bugsworth Basin. 

By Car 

Take the A6 towards Whaley Bridge and then at Bridgemont take the turning onto the B6062. If 

you are heading South on the A6 the turning is a very sharp left just after a railway bridge! 

You can park at the Navigation Inn in Buxworth, but quite reasonably, only if you intend to have 

a meal or a few drinks there. Alternatively you can park on the roadside outside St James church 

in Buxworth village. 

By Public Transport 

Bus route 190 or 189 – Buxton to Whaley Bridge 

www.derbysbus.info/times/index.htm 

You can also walk from Chinley, Whaley Bridge or Furness Vale train stations 

http://ojp.nationalrail.co.uk/en/s/planjourney/query 




2. Bugsworth Basin 

Location 

Buxworth, High Peak District SK23 7NE 

I have to confess to being a bit biased here because the basin is only a 

few hundred yards from our holiday cottage, but I love this place. 

Bugsworth Basin lies at the head of the Peak Forest canal so it’s worth 

combining a towpath walk with a visit here. 

Visiting the basin today it is difficult to imagine that 200 years ago it was 

a noisy, dirty but thriving industrial centre. The basin was a kind of huge 

open-air factory. Here the limestone quarried further up in the Peaks 

was brought for processing into slaked lime in the huge kilns or 

transporting to the industrial centres of the north and beyond. It was the 

largest and busiest inland port on Britain's narrow canal system and is now the only one that 

survives intact. 

The advent of the steam train saw the demise of Bugsworth as an industrial centre and the basin 

became badly neglected. Today however after 30 years of incredible voluntary renovation work 

it is a place of peace and quiet and surrounded by natural beauty. 

You have to see the photographs to really appreciate the transformation. 

www.brocross.com/iwps/pages/pics1.htm#1999ub 

Follow the Bugsworth Basin heritage trail and read the information plaques to learn all about 

the canals, tramways, kilns, warehouses and wharfs. 

Aside from the history, it is a great place for a picnic, to watch some of the wonderfully 

decorated barges that pass through, feed the ducks, take photographs or enjoy a drink and some 

lunch at the Navigation Inn. Hopefully you’ll find a reason to visit. 


Bugsworth Basin - www.brocross.com/iwps 

Navigation Inn - www.navigationinn.co.uk 


Getting There 

By Car 

Take the A6 towards Whaley Bridge and then at Bridgemont take the turning onto the B6062. If 

you are heading South on the A6 the turning is a very sharp left just after a railway bridge! 

You can park at the Navigation Inn in Buxworth but only if you intend to have a meal or a few 

drinks there. Alternatively you can park on the roadside outside St James church in Buxworth 

village. 




You can also walk from Chinley or Whaley Bridge train stations 





3. Eyam Village & Eyam Hall (pronounced eeym) 

Location 

Eyam, Hope Valley, Peak District S32 5QW 

Eyam Village 

On the tourist trail but I still think it is worth visiting if only to marvel at the unique and selfless 

part the villagers played in the Great Plague of 1665. 

Eyam is a pretty village north east of Buxton in the heart of the Peak District National Park. The 

village became famous as the 'plague village’ when the villagers voluntarily quarantined 

themselves after the bubonic plague was introduced there in a flea-infested bundle of cloth 

delivered from London to the village tailor. Inside the parish church there is a small exhibition 

about the Plague. 

The village has lots of old historical buildings, many of which have plaques outside giving details 

of their history and the part their inhabitants played during the plague outbreak. The village 

also has several shops and tea rooms, a pub and a striking Youth Hostel set on the hillside 

overlooking the village. 

Above the village you will find Eyam Moor, a lovely place for walking, with great views across 

the Derwent valley. 

Eyam Hall 

The hall can be found just off the main street. It is a beautifully unspoilt example of a Jacobean 

manor house with a traditional English walled garden that miraculously was untouched by 18th 

century landscapers and so retains its 17th century charm. Now following recent restoration 

work visitors can wander round the knot garden, the avenue of espaliered apple trees, the 

nuttery, the kitchen garden, the bowling green and the lawn. 

The Hall is only open to the public on a few days a year so check details before you travel. 

The hall farm buildings have been converted into a working craft centre with a shop and a 

licensed restaurant, open throughout the year Tuesday to Sunday. 


Eyam - www.eyamplaguevillage.co.uk 


Eyam Hall - www.eyamhall.co.uk 

e-mail - info@eyamhall.co.uk 

Tel: 01433 631 976 

Getting There 

By Car 

Eyam lies on the B6521 off the A623 just west of Stoney Middleton that runs between Baslow 

and Peak Forest. 


Bus route 65 Meadowhall Sheffield to Buxton 

Bus route 66 Chesterfield to Buxton 





4. Goyt Valley 

Location 

North West of Buxton, South East of Whaley Bridge 

The Goyt Valley is a stunning piece of Peak District countryside. The name of the valley comes 

from the local dialect word goyt or goit meaning stream. 

The valley scenery is a combination of beautiful heather covered moorland, green rolling 

farmland, steep wooded slopes and tranquil streams and reservoirs. Almost reminiscent of the 

Lake District, the valley provides great walking, cycling, running, horse riding and fantastic 

photography opportunities. 

The area is considered one of the “honeypot” locations in the Peak District. This will tell you that 

it can, and does, get very busy especially in the summer and on bank holidays. That said, I have 

run round the valley on beautifully sunny days and only seen a handful of other people so if you 

can visit during off peak it can still be a tranquil place to visit. 

The valley and surrounding hillsides are crisscrossed with a 

number of paths and although there is no formal access 

agreement on the open moorland, a few concessionary and 

public paths combine to provide access throughout the area. 

If you can pick your moment and come early or later in the 

day you may well be rewarded with the most beautiful and 

atmospheric conditions for taking wonderful landscape 

photographs. 

Photograph by kind permission of 

Yvonne Reynolds 

If walking, running, photography or cycling are not your 

thing you could always try sailing or fishing at Errwood 

reservoir where there is a Sailing Club and Fly Fishing club. 


There are 3 picnic areas and 2 toilet blocks open all year round 

A Traffic Management Scheme closes the central section of the valley road at peak times in 

summer to reduce noise and congestion. It is closed between 10.30 am and 5.30 pm on Sundays 

and Bank Holiday Mondays from 1st May to the end of September. 

Goyt Valley - www.peakdistrict-education.gov.uk/Fact%20Sheets/fz20goyt.htm 


Errwood Sailing Club - www.errwoodsailing.org.uk 

e-mail: info@errwoodsailing.org.uk 

Errwood Fly Fishing Club - www.effc.co.uk 

Getting There 

By Car 

Follow the brown tourist signs either from the A5004 between Buxton and Whaley Bridge or from the 

B5470 at Kettleshulme between Macclesfield and Whaley Bridge. 

There are six car parks providing parking for 500 cars and parking is free but it can be a problem in peak 

season and on bank holidays. 


Bus route 61 - Buxton to Glossop 

Bus route 58 - Buxton to Macclesfield. You can walk from the Cat and Fiddle Inn on the A537. 





5. Dunge Valley Hidden Gardens 

Location 

Windgather Rock, Kettleshulme, High Peak, Cheshire SK23 7RF 

Although technically in Cheshire Dunge Valley is only a few hundred metres over the county 

boundary so easily within reach from the High Peak area. Well and truly off the beaten track but 

definitely well worth tracking down if plants, gardening, photography or good tea and cake are 

your thing! 

Set in a secluded valley just to the west of the beautiful Goyt valley, the gardens lie at 1000 feet 

above sea level which make them an ideal place for a collection of Himalayan plants. Well 

known for their stunning seasonal displays the gardens include Rhododendrons, Azaleas, Acers, 

and Magnolias as well as a wide variety of unusual perennials, trees and shrubs all set in a 

backdrop of a steep sided ravine with streams, waterfalls, ponds, bridges and bog garden. 

I have seen the gardens heralded as being one of the most comprehensive collections of 

Rhododendrons in the UK with over 550 species and hybrid Rhododendrons on display, but I 

am no expert so cannot confirm this! However I think if the weather is kind, you won’t be 

disappointed. Many of the plants are labelled so you can try and hunt them down in the nursery 

and plant shop to take one home as a memento of your time in the Peak District. 

Unfortunately because of the terrain the garden is not suitable for wheelchairs or people with 

limited mobility. You can only really soak up the beauty and atmosphere of the gardens on foot 

so please make sure you go in flat shoes! 

It is well worth purchasing the guidebook as it gives you a much greater insight into what you 

are looking at and the history of the garden. 

There is also tea room serving great cakes and snacks, with a patio providing a beautiful view of 

the valley and surrounding hills. 


Opening times – please phone and check but at the moment they are 

10.30am to 5pm - Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holiday Mondays 

March, April, May and June 

Entry Fees - Adults £4.00 (refunded when you spend £12 on plants), Children £1.50 

Website: - www.dungevalley.co.uk 

Tel: 01663 733 787 

Email: david@dungevalley.co.uk 

Getting There 

By Car 

Follow the brown tourist signs from the B5470 at Kettleshulme between Macclesfield and 

Whaley Bridge. 


The garden is not really accessible by public transport 




6. Freshfields Donkey Village 

Location 

Freshfields Farm, Peak Forest, Derbyshire, SK17 8EE 

If you have children, love animals, like a heart warming story, or all three of the above, you have 

to go to Freshfields Donkey Village. 

An impulsive decision to save two mistreated donkeys changed the lives of John and Annie 

Stirling and over the years that followed, the lives of many other 

donkeys and special needs children. A visit to the village will 

reveal the rest of this lovely story and give you the opportunity to 

experience the amazing work done there. They not only rescue 

and care for abandoned and mistreated donkeys but also use 

them to work with children with special needs. 

The village, home to the Michael Elliot Trust, is located in a 

beautiful, peaceful and panoramic part of the Peak District and 

the drive there alone is worth the effort. As well as spending time 

with the donkeys there is also a lovely tea room that provides a 

very unique afternoon tea! You can also adopt a Donkey to build a 

lasting link with this wonderful place. 

Owing to the show business connections of the founders John & Annie there is also a chance you 

may spot a famous face during your visit too. Stars such as June Brown (Dot Cotton), Patricia 

Routledge, Chris de Burgh, Rolf Harris, Martin Shaw, Lesley Garrett, Mark Knopfler and Dame 

Judi Dench are all great supporters of the Trust. 


Opening Hours: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, 12pm - 4:30pm 

Freshfields Donkey Village - www.donkey-village.org.uk 

Tel: 01298 79775 

Getting There 

By Car 

South East of Chapel-en-le-Frith on the A623 in the village of Peak Forrest follow the brown 

tourist signs at the traffic lights. After 0.5 miles turn 

right into a farm road (signposted Freshfields). 


Bus route 190 – Buxton to Whaley Bridge 

www.derbysbus.info/times/index.htm At the traffic 

lights in the centre of Peak Forest village follow the 

brown tourist sign for Donkey Village and, after 0.5 

miles turn right into a farm road (signposted 

Freshfields). 

Photographs used with kind permission of Freshfields 




7. The Torrs Riverside Park 

Location 

New Mills, High Peak SK22 3BN 

If you want something to do outdoors for just an hour or so or you are a climber looking for an 

unusual challenge, the Torrs Riverside Park and Millennium Walk in New Mills is a great option. 

The Torrs gorges, created during the ice age, played a significant part in the development of the 

weaving industry in the area. Mills were built and weirs created to produce sufficient head of 

water to power the machinery. 

The mills were abandoned years ago but ruins, weirs, aqueducts, chimneys, cobbled tracks and 

arched bridges, remain. Recently the area has been developed further with the removal of 

industrial sites and extensive tree planting to create a surprising and beautiful place for a stroll. 

A very popular circular route for walkers follows the Midshires (Goyt) way through the 

Riverside Park, returning via the Peak Forest Canal towpath. 

The Torrs gorge is also good for climbing enthusiasts as experienced climbers have identified a 

number of routes up the sandstone face. 

The Millennium Walkway 

Until 1999 river level access downstream from the gorge was not possible because the river 

Goyt forced walkers back to street level as it filled the space between Torr Vale Mill and the 

Victorian retaining wall carrying the Manchester to Sheffield railway line. 

Derbyshire County Council rose to the challenge and in December 1999 a new 160 meter 

walkway was opened. Suspended over the river, the walkway provides a stunning addition to 

the Torrs valley path. It has since won numerous awards and was even featured on a post office 

stamp marking the millennium. 


Torrs Riverside Park Leaflet - 

www.newmillstowncouncil.com/assets/applets/TorrsRiversideParkLeaflet-Feb2006.pdf 

New Mills Heritage & Information Centre 

Website - www.newmillsheritage.com 

Tel: 01663 746904 

Getting There 

By Car 

From the A6 between Disley and Whaley Bridge take the A6015 to New Mills and Hayfield. At 

the traffic lights at the bottom of the hill turn left into the town centre and follow the signs for 

the various car parks. 


Bus routes 60, 61, 62, 64, 67 and 199 


New Mills has two train stations too New Mills Newtown and New Mills Central 





8. Fell Running 

Location 

You are spoiled for choice – so many places across the High Peak 

One of the things I love about living in the High Peak is being able to run out of my front door 

and up onto the hills. As you can imagine, the High Peak, with its hundreds of footpaths, 

bridleways and tracks crisscrossing open countryside is an ideal place for running off road. Just 

from the door of the holiday cottage there are dozens of different routes, so together with all 

other routes across the area options are almost endless. 

All you need is a good Ordnance Survey map and a decent pair of shoes. Maps of the area are 

Land Ranger 110 and 119 or Outdoor Leisure 1. If you are not used to running off road be 

warned it can get very muddy underfoot so you really need good trail or fell running shoes. 

If you want to take part in a race the following ones are organised by the local club The Goyt 

Valley Striders. 

Buxworth 5 Road Race 

This is a new race replacing the Shady Oak Tough 10k which is equally as tough and has a very 

welcoming pub and landlord. The race will take place on 4th May 2011 

Vanessa Chappell Fell Race 

Brought back by the Striders for 2010 this very popular fell race is 5.6m long with a climb of 

1317ft. Free soup and a roll will also be available for competitors after the race. The race will 

take place on the 25th May 2011. 

The Whaley Waltz Fell Race 

This popular 6 mile fell race has a little twist at the end. Get your entry in early. This year's race 

takes place on the 25th June 2011 

The Eccles Pike Fell Race 

The Eccles Pike Fell Race is reputably one of the oldest fell races in the country, dating back to 

the beginning of the century. It is renowned for being short, tough and demanding. This year's 

race takes place on the 17th August 2011 


The Goyt Valley Striders run regularly from Whaley 

Bridge. If you are only a beginner Goyt Valley Strollers 

may be more your cup of tea! – and they are a friendly 

bunch. 

Club website - www.goytvalleystriders.org.uk/index.html 




9. View from Eccles Pike 

Location 

Buxworth / Whitehough, High Peak 

This is another one of my favourite places in the High Peak and just to the back of our cottage. 

The hill itself, just west of Chapel en le Frith, is unremarkable but the view is stunning. Go up on 

a clear day or a clear night and you will be rewarded for your efforts. You can see Manchester to 

the north, Cheshire and Wales to the south and west and the hills of the Peak District to the east. 

On the top of the hill you will find a circular commemorative plaque to help you identify all of 

the prominent landmarks through the full 360 degree panorama. 

You can drive almost to the top and park in the lay-by then just walk the last 100 metres or so to 

the top from the road west of Chapel but parking is very limited. I would personally recommend 

a walk either from Buxworth or Whitehough. 

You could try this circular walk I posted on the Ordnance Survey Website 

http://explore.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/os_routes/show/19334 

The last few 100 metres or so are very steep so make sure you are wearing good walking shoes. 

No one really knows how it acquired the name Eccles, or if it has any link to the town north of 

Manchester famous for its currant cakes. 

The site is owned by the National Trust but has open access all year round. 


National Trust - http://peakdistrict.nationaltrust.org.uk/eccles-pike NB. The photograph on this 

page is not Eccles Pike – Don’t want you to be expecting big crags! 

Getting There 

By Car 

It is a bit tricky to find so this National Trust map is the best way to locate it in your car. 

http://peakdistrict.nationaltrust.org.uk/places-to-visit/eccles-pike 

There are only a handful of places to park on Eccles Lane. 


Bus route 190 or 189 – Buxton to Whaley Bridge will get you into Buxworth but it is a walk up 

from there. 


If you are up for a longer walk you could go from Chinley train station too 





10. Hartington Cheese Shop 

Location 

Market Place, Hartington, Nr. Buxton, Derbyshire SK17 0AL 

If like me, you are a bit of a cheeseaholic and are passing anywhere 

near Hartington this is a must. 

Set in the heart of the village, overlooking the duck pond the cheese 

shop has been selling cheese for almost 30 years and is currently home 

to the Hartington Cheese and Wine Company. 

A creamery was first established in the village in the 1870’s but was 

partly destroyed by fire in 1894. After being left empty for a few years Thomas Nutall, a prize 

winning Stilton maker from Melton Mowbray began making Blue Stilton in the creamery. 

His son later expanded the business and was granted a warrant to supply Stilton to George V. 

Business boomed from the 1920’s onwards when a Certification Trade Mark legally restricted 

the production of Blue Stilton to the three neighbouring counties of Leicestershire, 

Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire. 

Unfortunately the cheese factory closed it’s doors in early 2009 but at about the same time the 

cheese shop was taken over by new owners who have expanded the range of products and now 

sell ingenious wedding cheese cakes. 

If you love good cheese it is impossible to go into the shop and come out empty handed. 

Don’t say I didn’t warn you! 

If you do venture into Hartington stay a while and have a look round the pottery, gift shops and 

tea shops. There is also a pub and a hotel that do good food too, but if you can manage the short 

walk up the hill I would recommend a visit to Hartington Hall. Now a Youth Hostel but like no 

youth hostel I have ever stayed in! It is a beautiful manor house dating back to 1611. It now 

boasts an award winning restaurant, fully licensed bar and a cafe bar which is open throughout 

the year. 


Open 7 days a week from 9am until 5pm 

Shop Website - www.hartingtoncheeseshop.co.uk 

Tel: 01298 84935 

Youth Hostel Website - www.yha.org.uk/find-accommodation/peak-districtsherwood/hostels/Hartington/index.aspx 

Getting There 

By Car 

Hartington is situated in the south of the Peak District 

National Park, midway between Ashbourne and Buxton. It 

lies 2 miles west of the A515. 


You can get to Hartington using bus routes: 42A, 171, 181, 

442 and 446 





11. Castle Naze Cragg 

Location 

Castle Naze is 3 km south of Chapel-en-le-Frith 

Castle Naze Cragg also known as Combs Moss is a steep and exposed 

westerly facing gritstone escarpment overlooking Combs Reservoir and the village of Combs. 

Rising to a height of 1,400 feet above sea level the crag forms the base of an ancient hill fort. If 

you do take the time to walk or climb to the top you’ll see from the amazing panorama why it 

made such a good site for a fort. 

The crag itself is a relatively undiscovered area of Western Grit for rock climbing and whilst not 

extensive or long the 78 routes offered are challenging. In fact Castle Naze is home to The Scoop, 

first climbed by Stanley Jeffcoat one of the Edwardian fathers of climbing in 1914. 

According to www.rockfax.com The Scoop Face is one of their top 50 Western Grit climbs 

The hill fort itself is roughly triangular in shape and covers approximately 2.25 acres. As with 

many such hill forts it has a long history of occupation. It has been established that the fort had 

three key phases of construction, two during the Iron Age period and one in Medieval times. Not 

much in the way of artefacts have been found but some 2,000-year-old Roman pottery has been 

found inside the wall. 

The Ordnance Survey map you need for the area is either the Landranger sheet 119 – Buxton 

and Matlock or the Outdoor Leisure sheet OL24 – Peak District 


Website - www.rockfax.com/databases/results_crag.html?id=93 

Getting There 

There are a number of footpaths leading up to the crag from the surrounding area, some very 

steep some less so. So chose your route to suit your fitness level. 

By Car 

The best approach is via the Dove Holes to Combs single track road. 

The parking is very limited (3 cars) in a lay by on the single track road. However there is 

parking at Chapel railway station and the walk is pleasant, taking about 25 mins. 


The easiest approach is from Chapel en le Frith train station which is on the Manchester to 

Buxton line. 


Alternatively you can get the bus to Chapel and walk 

Bus routes 62, 67, 69, 189, 190, 199 and 200 





12. Pennine Bridleway 

Location 

Parsley Hay to Uppermill 

If you enjoy horse riding, cycling or walking the new Pennine 

Bridleway is worth considering. The idea for the Pennine Bridleway 

came from Mary Towneley, who, in 1986, rode from Derbyshire to 

Northumberland to highlight the state of the country's bridleways. 

It s the first purpose built long-distance bridleway for horse-riders, 

mountain bikers and walkers. 120 miles of the route are currently 

open from Derbyshire up to and including the 47 miles of the Mary 

Towneley Loop in the South Pennines. The remaining section of the 

trail is still under construction but when completed, will reach the 

350 miles to Byrness in Northumberland. 

Photograph with kind permission of 

www.onestopponyshop.co.uk 

It runs roughly parallel to the Pennine Way but mainly along 

lower-lying paths and despite the name it is also a great route for 

walkers and an alternative to the challenges of the Pennine Way. 

Three stages of the bridleway cut across the High Peak area of the Peak District: 

Stage 2 Parsley Hay to Peak Forest 

Stage 3 Peak Forest to Hayfield 

Stage 4 Hayfield to Uppermill 

The stage you chose will dictate the scenery and places you pass through. However you can 

guarantee whichever one it is, the scenery will be beautiful and the journey enjoyable. 


If you want to cycle the routes this link will provide the information you need. 

www.nationaltrail.co.uk/penninebridleway/text.asp?PageId=88 

Website - www.nationaltrail.co.uk/penninebridleway 

Information office - National Trail Officer, c/o Natural England, 3rd Floor, Bridgewater House, 

Whitworth Street, Manchester M1 6LT 

Tel: 0300 060 1840 

Email: pbw.info@naturalengland.org.uk 

Getting There 

Directions will vary, depending on which bit of the bridleway you want to access. 

Use this link to see a map of the stages: 

www.nationaltrail.co.uk/penninebridleway/sites.asp?PageId=30 




13. Marple Regent Cinema 

Location 

Stockport Rd, Marple, Stockport SK6 6BJ 

As you might expect the High Peak is not exactly overflowing with large multi-screen cinemas, 

but what there is instead provides a unique experience for younger visitors and a trip down 

memory lane for more mature ones. Strictly speaking the Regent Cinema in Marple is not in the 

High Peak but it is only a short distance over the border in Stockport and it is an absolute gem 

and so worth including! 

The building itself was originally a mission hall and coffee shop back in 1878. It was bought by 

the Marple Cinema Company back in 1932 and since then has been run as an independent 

cinema. Now it’s one of only a few independent cinemas left in the UK. 

This traditional family run cinema with it’s definite touch of nostalgia and wonderful 

atmosphere is a great antidote to modern multiplexes. In my view it beats it’s modern 

counterparts hands down with: 

A friendly atmosphere 

Big comfy seats with lots of leg room (if you get there early or book ahead) 

Double back row seats! 

Attendants to show you to your seat 

Great ticket prices 

Circle or stalls seating! 

An intermission half way through the film 

Attendants selling ice creams from trays 

The cinema always shows the latest films but obviously with just one screen there is no choice. 

They also show children’s films as matinees during the school holidays. 

Call me an old fashioned romantic, but I just love this place, and would really hate to see it to 

see it go the same way as thousands of it’s counterparts, so please, if you have time and they are 

showing a film you want to see, give it a try one evening. You won’t be disappointed! 


Website - www.regent-marple.co.uk 

Tel: 0161 427 5951 

Getting There 

By Car 

The cinema is on the B6101 Stockport Road between the end of the main run of shops and the 

Navigation pub. There are a few car parks in the area but the one I use is on Canal Street just 

down the side of the Navigation. 


The buses that run to Marple are bus routes: 62, 67, 306, 358 and 394 


There are two stations in Marple – Rose Hill Marple and Marple Station 





14. Old Hall Inn Beer Festivals 

Location 

Old Hall Inn, Whitehough, Chinley, High Peak SK23 6EJ 

Championed as the Best Pub in Derbyshire 2010 by CAMRA The Old Hall Inn is one of our 

favourite places to eat and have a drink or two. 

As the name suggests this is a beautiful old hall dating back 

to the 16th Century. It has a long standing reputation for 

serving good food and drinks but is now starting to get a 

name for putting on some great special events throughout 

the year. 

If you like a good Beer Festival then you should definitely think about putting these dates in 

your diary: 

Winter Ale Festival 

Friday 25th Feb to Sunday 27th Feb 2011 

Camra's Mild Magic 2011 

Sunday 17th Apr to Monday 23rd May 2011 

September Beer & Cider Festival 

Friday 23rd to Sunday 25 th Sept 2011 


Food Available – always book a table because it gets busy! 

Lunchtimes: 

Evenings: 

Monday - Saturday noon till 2pm 

Monday - Thursday 5pm till 9pm 

Sunday noon till 7.30pm 

Friday - Saturday 5pm till 9.30pm 

Sunday noon till 7.30pm 

Bar open – 12 noon till late all day, everyday 

Web site - www.old-hall-inn.co.uk/events.php 

Tel: 01663 750529 

Getting There 

By Car 

From the B6062 that runs through Buxworth & Chinley take the turning in the centre of Chinley 

(at the side of the carpet shop) to Whitehough and once in the village take the sharp right down 

the side of the Old Hall and right again into the car park. 


There are no bus routes that go through Whitehough. You need to walk from the 190 and 189 

bus route through Chinley 

http://bowersbuses.com/bustimes.aspx 

You can also walk from Chinley Train Station 





15. Quiet Walks Around Combs (pronounced cooms) 

Location 

Combs Village, High Peak 

Largely undiscovered, the village of Combs lies just south west of Chapel-en-le-Frith and sits 

between Combs reservoir and Castle Naze (see number 11). 

It has a lovely pub, The Beehive Inn, serving great food (12-2pm and 6-9pm Mon to Sat, 12-9pm 

Sun), cask ales and wine. It is always worth booking in advance as it is busy all year round. If 

you wish to tax your brain cells Tuesday night is quiz night (9.30 pm onwards) free 

refreshments included 

www.thebeehiveinn.co.uk 

Tel: 01298 812758. 

The other great feature of the village is 

the surrounding countryside, steep 

sided fells, rolling farmland and the 

wetlands surrounding the reservoir. 

There are many good circular walks 

from here taking in the varied 

landscape and views beyond. 

Footpaths and bridleways crisscross 

this part of the Peaks so the choice of 

route is almost endless. 

The Ordnance Survey map you need for the area is either the Landranger sheet 119 – Buxton 

and Matlock or the Outdoor Leisure sheet OL24 – Peak District 

Getting There 

Combs is just to the south of Chapel-en-le-Frith off the B5470 that runs between Chapel-en-le- 

Frith and Whaley Bridge. 

By Car 

The turning to the village is clearly signposted from the B5470 just by the Hanging Gate pub 

(see number 20) 

The Main car park in the area is not in the village (although there are a few spaces outside the 

pub) the best place to park is at Combs Reservoir. The reservoir is not actually signposted from 

the B5470 so it is easy to miss the access road. The turning is in the hamlet of Tunstead Milton 

and is opposite a red brick bungalow. 


There is no public transport into combs but if you are happy to walk you can get the train to 

Chapel en le Frith and start your walk from there. 


Alternatively you can get the 199 bus and get off at the Hanging Gate pub & walk from there. 





16. The Decorations at the Hanging Gate pub 

Location 

Manchester Road, Chapel-en-le-Frith, SK23 9UH 

OK so I have to admit that you don’t normally find this kind of thing included in tourist 

information about the Peak District. However, if you love kitsch Christmas or completely over 

the top Halloween, Easter or Valentines decorations, you absolutely have to make a visit to the 

Hanging Gate just outside Chapel-en-le-Frith. 

Run by the larger than life Mark Thomas, the pub pulls out all the stops when it comes to 

decorating for these special events each year. Mark and the staff spend days putting up the 

decorations for each event. Just to give you an idea of the scale of things, last Christmas they 

used over 1,700 lengths of garland, 3,500 baubles and 13,440 lights. 

It has now become a tradition at the pub gaining them notoriety in the local area and also 

starting to attract an annual following of customers travelling from far and wide to experience 

the unique atmosphere and decorations. 

The photographs on the pub website ( www.hanginggate-chapel.co.uk/pp001.shtml ) don’t 

quite do it justice, it really has to be seen to be believed! 

Oh I should also mention that the food is pretty good too. Big portions at reasonable prices. You 

will need to book a table though, especially at peak times. 

Check with them before you travel to find out what dates the various decoration events will be 

on as the dates will vary. 


Website - www.hanginggate-chapel.co.uk/index.shtml 

Tel: 01298 812776 

Getting There 

By Car 

The Hanging Gate is just to the south of Chapel-en-le-Frith on the B5470 Manchester Road that 

runs between Chapel-en-le-Frith and Whaley Bridge. Travelling South you will find it on the left 

just after the left turning to Combs. Going north look out for it on the right just after you pass the 

entrance for Chapel Golf club on your right. 


Bus route 199 


The Hanging Gate is about a 25 minute walk from Chapel en le Frith train station 





17. Clay Pigeon Shooting 

Location 

Glossop, High Peak 

If clay pigeon shooting is a hobby, or simply a new experience that takes your fancy, the Glossop 

area of the High Peak District offers something for all levels. 

The Boar Shooting Ground 

Set in the hills overlooking Torside reservoir, just off the A628 Woodhead Pass, The Boar can 

accommodate individuals or groups of all 

standards. Tuition is available and you can hire 

guns even if you are a novice or have no shotgun 

licence. 

For more experienced shots, or those looking for 

specific disciplines, English Sporting, English 

Skeet, Down The Line and 

Game Flush are available. 

The ground is open 7 days a week but I 

recommended you phone ahead to check 

availability. 

Website – www.boarclayshootingground.co.uk 

Tel: 07724 193382 

The Grouse Shoot 

Conveniently situated opposite the Grouse Public House, on the A625 between Chinley and 

Glossop this shoot offers a very scenic backdrop of rolling farmland. Providing a changing 

sporting layout this is a friendly and easily accessible shooting ground, with something to 

challenge most shooters. 

Shooting is only on a Sunday morning (0930 – 1200), except for April, May and June when the 

owners close the ground to protect the breeding season of lapwings and curlews. 

Shooters can participate simply for fun, or enter the competitive rounds. Guns are available for 

hire if you don’t have access to your own. 

Website - www.thegrouseshootingground.co.uk 

Tel: 0161 3661997 / 07745 440015 

Local Gun Shop 

If you are intending to participate in some shooting whilst in the area and need to purchase any 

accessories or ammunition, Whaley Bridge is home to Jack Hallam & Sons gun shop. 

A friendly, family run business, you will always feel welcome, but may not escape without a 

good conversation! Opening times do vary, so always call before visiting. Also be aware that 

there is no website or e-mail contact and transactions are cash or cheque only. A valid licence 

will be required for all weapon / ammunition purchases. 

Jack Hallam & Sons, 

33 Buxton Road, 

Whaley Bridge, 

High Peak 

SK23 7HT 

Tel: 01663 733900 




18. Great Photography Opportunities 

Location 

Anywhere in the Peak District that catches your imagination! 

The Peak District is full of interesting people and places, stunning views 

and scenery, atmospheric skies and country village life. In short a landscape, wildlife, sports or 

social documentary photographers dream. 

With its diverse landscape and seasonal events the Peak 

District attracts photographers all year round. 

You only have to look at the 

work of some local 

professionals to see why. 

 

 

 

Photograph by kind permission of 

Yvonne Reynolds 

Richard Wheeler – a fine art photographer specialising in 

landscape photography around the Peak District. www.peak-photos.co.uk 

Barry Levers – photos of the Dark Peak www.peakdistrictphotos.co.uk/gallery_303207.html 

Peak District Scenes 

www.photoboxgallery.com/peakdistrictscenes/collection?album_id=94156148 

Peak District photography is not just for the pros though. You only have to look on other 

websites to see what keen amateurs can create. 

Here is a selection of Peak District photographs on Flickr 

www.flickr.com/search/?q=Peak+District 

My Peak Experience – this is a site where members of the public 

share their Peak District photos, videos, words and audio with the world 

www.mypeakexperience.org.uk 

So if you are a keen photographer the High Peak 

District can really offer you some great opportunities 

to take beautiful and atmospheric photographs. 




19. Hathersage Open Air Pool 

Location 

Oddfellows Road, Hathersage, Hope Valley S32 1DU 

An open air swimming pool is not necessarily the first thing you would associate with a holiday 

in the Peak District however if you have the time and are in the area you should give it a go. The 

fact that it is heated to 28°C / 82°F makes it instantly more appealing plus the fact that as you 

swim you are surrounded by some beautiful Peak District scenery, it is a truly unique and 

memorable experience. 

The pool, which celebrates it's 75th anniversary in July 2011is set in a lawned enclosure with a 

covered veranda to one side. 

Next to the pool is café serving refreshments including hot and cold sandwiches, soup, pizzas, 

jacket potatoes, chips, cakes, ice-creams, sweets and hot and cold drinks. If you are not 

swimming and fancy something a bit more substantial they also serve a full range of meals 

including fish and chips, steak pie, lasagne and salad platters inside the café. 

Even though the pool is only open through the summer months the Pool Café is open all year 

round 

As well as a hard play area, there is a playing field adjacent to the pool for games and picnics and 

there are also tennis courts if you don’t fancy a swim. Swimming lessons are available at the 

pool and I can’t think of a more beautiful setting in the Peak District in which to learn! 


Owing to extensive refurbishments in early 2011, the pool is expected to open at the end of May 

this year. It’s always worth phoning ahead to check it is open 

Website - www.hathersageswimmingpool.co.uk/index.html 

Tel: 01433 650843 

Getting There 

By Car 

From the B6001 leading into Hathersage from the south go past the station on your right take 

the next right onto Oddfellows Road. There is some parking available at the pool on the right 

and a large pay and display car park on the left. 


Bus route 272 - Sheffield to Castleton 

Bus route 276 – Castleton to Chesterfield 

Bus route 284 – Sheffield to Hathersage 


Hathersage railway station is only a few minutes walk from the pool and is on the Manchester to 

Sheffield line. 





20. The Peak Forest Tramway Trail 

Location 

Buxworth to Chapel en le Frith 

Linked to Bugsworth Canal Basin the Peak Forest 

Tramway Trail is part of the local industrial 

heritage. It follows the line of the old horsedrawn 

tramway between Chapel en le Frith and 

Bugsworth basin dating from the 1700s. It linked 

the limestone quarries at Dove Holes to the canal 

boats that would transport the stone on to 

Manchester, the Mersey ports and the world 

beyond. 

Nowadays the trail is a quiet green lane suitable 

for walking and cycling. It’s especially good for 

taking children for a nature walk and in the autumn it’s also a great place to pick blackberries. 

Black Brook stream runs alongside the trail for a short distance and is great if your dog likes 

having a swim. 

By way of a warning though the trail is not picture postcard scenery all the way. You do have to 

pass a few industrial units that whilst making good use of the old buildings do not add to the 

beauty of the area! 

The main section from Bugsworth Basin to Charley Lane is 3 

kilometres long but you can elongate the route by starting in 

Whaley Bridge or Chapel-en-le-Frith. 

Please note only the section of the route from Whaley Bridge to 

Charley Lane is suitable for cycling along. 


You can download the Peak Forest Tramway leaflet here 

www.highpeak.gov.uk/culture/tramway.pdf 

Buxton tourist information centre Tel: 01298 25106 

Getting There 

By Car 

Take the A6 towards Whaley bridge and then at Bridgemont take the turning onto the B6062. If 

you are heading South on the A6 the turning is a very sharp left! 

You can park at the Navigation Inn in Buxworth but quite reasonably only if intend to have a 

meal or a few drinks there. Alternatively you can park on the roadside outside St James church 

in Buxworth village. 

At either end of the elongated route you can park in the public car parks in Whaley Bridge or 

Chapel-en-le-Frith. 




You can walk to each end of the Tramway Trail from Whaley Bridge, Chinley and Chapel en le 

Frith train stations. 





21. Eating Derbyshire Oatcakes 

Location 

Almost any cafe or local shop in the Peak District! 

My favourite is Stocks Cafe, Market Place, Chapel en le Frith, High 

Peak SK23 0EN 

Imagine if you can that feeling the morning after you’ve been at the Old Hall Inn beer 

festival! You’re hungry with a craving for something seriously savoury and just a bit 

greasy! 

While the majority of the country would be thinking of a big breakfast fry up most 

people in the Peak District would be dreaming of an oatcake breakfast. 

Derbyshire oatcakes are very different from the well known Scottish version which is 

actually a biscuit. The Derbyshire ones are a cross between a crumpet and a pancake. 

They are soft, about six or seven inches across and easily stuffed and rolled to make a 

great snack. But don’t be fooled, they are seriously filling! 

They are very similar to Staffordshire oatcakes but whilst using a very similar recipe 

they are slightly thicker and larger in diameter. 

Like pancakes they can be served with savoury or sweet fillings but the majority of 

people use savoury fillings like bacon, cheese, and mushrooms to make the perfect 

morning after breakfast! 

You can buy them precooked and in this form they make a great “fast food”. They are 

really easy to reheat under the grill or in a microwave. An added bonus is that they are 

pretty healthy too, well that is until you stuff them with all of the things that are very 

bad for you but taste absolutely delicious! 


Stocks Cafe 

Website: www.stockscafeandbistro.co.uk/ 

Tel: 01298 814906 

Opening: Mon – Closed Tues to Fri -10 am to 3 pm Sat – 8.30 to 3 pm Sun – 9.30 to 3 pm 

Parking is available n the Market Place and on the High Street. 

Oatcake Recipe: www.peak-experience.org.uk/tourism/explore-the-guides/peakexperience-guides/eat-the-peak/attraction-details/LocalRecipes.html 

Getting There 

By Car 

Stocks Cafe is located in the central Market Place just off the B5470 in Chapel en le Frith 


199 bus from Buxton – Manchester Airport 

www.trentbarton.co.uk/service_times.aspx?serviceid=162 

The centre of Chapel is about a 20 min walk from the train station which is on the 

Buxton to Manchester line.

21 Great Reasons to Visit the High Peak - Deep Mid-Wicket

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