Overview

One of the most popular ways to explore the Manifold Valley is by following the Manifold Way, a 8-mile (13 km) trail that runs along the former route of the Leek and Manifold Valley Light Railway – this well-maintained path, suitable for both walkers and cyclists, offers a gentle gradient and stunning views of the surrounding countryside – as you traverse the trail, you’ll pass by several points of interest that make the Manifold Valley truly special.

Ecton Copper Mines

About a mile down the track the large hill on the left is Ecton Hill – home to the historic Ecton Copper mines that were once the deepest in England and a source of great wealth for the Dukes of Devonshire – samples of the copper and zinc ores from Ecton Mine can be found at  locations such as Chatsworth House and the British Museum in London. This is an image of one of the entrances on the side of the hill.

Swainsley Tunnel

Swainsley Tunnel is a unique feature in the Manifold Valley – originally built in 1904 for the Leek and Manifold Valley Light Railway, the tunnel was constructed to avoid spoiling the view from the nearby Swainsley Hall – as insisted by Sir Thomas Wardle, a director of the railway.

This 150-meter-long single-track tunnel is notable for being one of the few tunnels in the Peak District – today, it serves as a shared route for cars, cyclists, and pedestrians, with pedestrian refuges built into its stonework walls.

Thors Cave

Thor’s Cave: Perhaps the most iconic landmark in the valley – Thor’s Cave is a magnificent natural cavern perched high on the valley side – a short but steep climb from the Manifold Way leads to the cave entrance – offering breathtaking views of the valley below – Thor’s Cave has evidence of human occupation during the Stone Age, with use well into the Iron Age and Roman period.

Weag’s Bridge

This pretty stone bridge spanning the River Manifold makes for a perfect photo opportunity – you cross the road here leading to the village of Wetton one way & Grindon the other with its fascinating church.

Beeston Tor

A striking limestone crag popular with rock climbers, Beeston Tor dominates the landscape and offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.

Waterhouses

The trail meanders on through some deep woodland before emerging at the village of Waterhouses – as it approaches Waterhouses, the trail continues to offer picturesque views of the White Peak landscape, characterized by limestone hills and woodlands.

The village of Waterhouses serves as a convenient endpoint, with facilities such as car parks and cycle hire available, making it an accessible location for visitors completing the trail

Parking – Car parks are available at both ends of the Manifold Way  – Hulme End and Waterhouses. Facilities – Public toilets are available at Hulme End Visitor Centre &  Wetton Mill.