Marple and New Mills: A Trail of Two Towns (12.5 Miles, Moderate)
Details
Two former industrial northern towns, both straddling the River Goyt: Marple, with its famous 16 locks, ruined cotton mills and Roman lakes; New Mills, with printworks, weavers' mills and high-level bridges over the Torrs valley.
Two mightily impressive bridges: the historic, towering Marple Aqueduct - the highest in England; and the sweeping modern wonder of the Millennium Walkway, wrapping around the steep valley walls over the river Goyt.
Lunch stop will be at the High Lea Heritage Centre which has a café and a small free museum.
After the hike we'll head to The Norfolk Arms for a cozy drink or two.
Meeting point
Marple Bridge Carpark in Brabyns Park at 9:45am for a prompt 10am start.
Parking
There are two free carparks. One inside Brabyns Park, the other just outside over the road.
Public transport
There are trains from Manchester to Marple that get in before the start time. The station is very near Brabyns Park.
Dogs
Well behaved dogs are welcome on the walk and in the pub afterwards.
What to bring
Please bring a packed lunch, water and appropriate clothing/footwear for the weather and terrain.
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DISCLAIMER
Please acknowledge the following:
• The walk is entirely free of charge. You only arrange for your own travel and pub expenses.
• Understand our terms and conditions below (the "IMPORTANT" part).
• Understand how to stay safe outdoors, as you will be responsible for yourself.
• Walk distances can be up to 15 miles or more and we can be out for as long as 5-7 hours.
• We usually stop for a packed lunch and pop in to a country pub for a post or mid-hike drink.
Feel free to ask any questions in the comments section!
Here's a guide to the difficult rating:
• Easy - Short distance, less than ten miles and mostly flat. Suitable for anyone capable of a brisk stroll.
• Moderately Easy - Shortish distance, around ten miles, some gentle hills. For those who walk regularly but don't have too much hiking experience.
• Moderate - Between ten and twelve miles, a few decent hills with potentially steep sections. For those with some hiking experience.
• Moderately Challenging - Longer distance, twelve miles or over with lots of hills. Suitable for hikers who enjoy being out for most of the day.
• Challenging - Around fifteen miles or more, with hills, mountains and maybe the odd scramble. For experienced hikers who like pushing themselves.
• Hard - Long distance, sometimes over twenty miles, with mountains and difficult terrain. Only suitable for fit, experienced hikers.
IMPORTANT
Please bear in mind this is a free of charge, self-guided trip with a hobby group. It is not organised by a business nor any entity with commercial purposes. Any trip details, travel advice, route planning, instructions and other content in our group merely represent our shared personal knowledge, research and suggestions as outdoor enthusiasts. As this is not a business, there is no "product", "service" or "package" and also no "tour guide", "operator" or "walk leader". Each participant is responsible for their own safety. Even if some of us are very experienced walking outdoors, nobody assumes responsibility for any kind of injury, damage or loss that may happen. Our experienced members volunteer their time and effort to shape a pleasant and quality adventure for everyone. By participating you acknowledge and agree with this disclaimer.