Feature

The Torrs Millennium Walkway – a stunning Peak District walk that hovers above a huge gorge

Getlostmcr has teamed up with The Manc to share one of the Peak District's most stunning walks

The Manc - 24th March 2023

On first glance, New Mills may seem like any other Peak District town: small, picturesque with little-much-to-do. Venture just a few steps towards the River Sett, and you’ll find yourself in another landscape entirely.

Just below the hustle and bustle of the main shopping centre lies New Mill’s (not so) hidden gem – The Torrs Millennium Walkway.

Having done this route a few times, each time we’ve been amazed at the natural gorge that lies below.

The spectacular gritstone gorge was previously impassable to walkers, but the walkway built at the turn of the millennium, nicknamed the ‘steel spider’s web’, has transformed the dramatic landscape.

The Torrs Millennium Walkway is a 175-yard aerial walkway spanning the cliffsides above the River Goyt and River Sett, with links to many walking and cycling routes across the area.

If you’re new to the area, the heritage centre provides maps and guides for several nearby walks, including the iconic Kinder Trespass Trail.

Torrs Millennium Walkway. Credit: Getlostmcr

Torrs Millennium Walkway. Credit: Getlostmcr

Below, Getlostmcr has mapped out a couple of walking route options, one of which soaks in all the best bits of Stockport’s forgotten history.

And if you plan your walk to finish in New Mills, you can nip in to the dog-friendly, traditional local pub, The Pride of the Peaks, for a swift pint of Guinness by the real fire.

For those short on time, we recommend this route by Getlostmcr – a short, four-mile, out-and-back loop around the walkway and along the Sett Valley Trail. This route starts in the town of New Mills, easily reached via train or by car, with ample parking space at Market Street Carpark in the town centre.

And for those looking to get the extra steps in, why not extend the route by starting at nearby Marple?

History buffs, this one’s for you: Getlostmcr have mapped out a lengthier walk that takes in the best of Stockport’s forgotten history.

Starting from Marple, you’ll head towards The Roman Lakes, past the site of Mellor Mill Ruins: once a shining start of the Oldknow Empire. Back in its heyday, Mellor Mill was the biggest spinning mill the world had seen.

What remains of the site has since been taken over by the natural world, making a perfect pitstop on the first leg of your walk.

From here, you’ll make the ascent to Mellor Cross close to Cobden Edge. Mellor Cross was originally erected in 1970 by a group of local church goers who carried the individual pieces up the steep hill to ensure the cross overlooked the community.

Once you’ve marvelled at the size of this landmark, it’s time to head towards Mellor Moor where you’ll be rewarded with views right across the western edge of the Peak District and the Cheshire Plain.

The moor’s umpteen tracks date back to prehistoric Old Mercian trackways, said to be the route of monks and pilgrims way back when. Next, you’ll follow the trackways until you reach New Mills, where you can stop off to marvel at the walkway above. As for the return? That’s up to you!

You can follow Getlost’s out-and-back route here, or simply get the train back to either Piccadilly or the starting point in Marple if you drove down. For those following the half route, this is the link you need.

Enjoy!

The good-to-knows

The Pride of the Peaks pub in New Mills. Credit: Getlostmcr

A pint of Guinness in the Pride of the Peaks pub — The Pride of the Peaks pub in New Mills. Credit: Getlostmcr

Car parks

We parked in New Mills’ Market Street Carpark, £2 for 4 hours. 44 spaces.

New mills Carpark: Market Street, New Mills, High Peak, Derbyshire, SK22 4AA.

For those starting in Marple, there is ample free street parking near Hibbert Lane, SK6. There is also a carpark just off Hibbert Lane.

Marple carpark: Marple Memorial Park, Hibbert Lane, Stockport, SK6 6BD.

Cafes

There are plenty of cafes in both New Mills and Marple. For those following the short loop from New Mills, Sett Valley Café is en route and have a 10/10 selection of homemade and vegan drinks and snacks.

Pubs

We went to Pride of the Peaks in New Mills, but there are plenty to choose from in both New Mills and Marple, depending where you choose to start.

Difficulty

There are various options to suit different walking abilities. For those wanting to do the out and back from Marple, we’d recommend walking boots.

It’s also worth noting the ascent is all in one short stint so decent level of fitness is required. The short loop from New Mills is perfect for a Sunday dog walk.