ERRWOOD HALL LOOP, GOYT VALLEY

Panoramic views, magical woodlands and peaceful picnic spots are just some of the reasons you’ll want to head to Goyt Valley — and at just 3 miles for a round trip, you won’t find a better local short walk than this one…

Start: Errwood Hall Car Park, SK11 0AR

Distance: 3 miles

Elevation: 500 feet

Duration: 1-2 hours

Navigation: follow the route here

This relaxed Peak District walk is beautiful in any season, but the way the woods are painted with gorgeous auburn hues come late September should make this route appear high on your list of autumn woodland walks.

Lying just a few miles northwest of Buxton, Goyt Valley is magical place — one that’s gained popularity from visitors since Victorian times.

Once a prosperous and industrious community, the signs of a time gone by are all but extinct, bar from the ruins of Errwood Hall. Back in 1937, the construction of Fernilee Reservoir completely changed this beauty spot’s landscape, but the area remains a wonderfully peaceful place to visit to this day.

Walk Overview

This leisurely three-mile walk takes in three of the most historic sites in this part of the Goyt Valley; the ruins of Errwood Hall, the hilltop cemetery of the Grimshawe family who lived here from around 1840 to 1930, and St Joseph’s Shrine, the small circular stone building dedicated to the Spanish companion of Mrs Jessie Grimshawe. From here the walk ascends a gentle slope to reach the summit of Foxlow Edge before returning to Errwood Hall carpark.

Errwood Hall: A Glimpse into the Past

Errwood Hall, now a ruined site, was once the centerpiece of the Grimshawe estate. Constructed in the 1830s by Samuel Grimshawe, this grand mansion boasted Victorian Gothic architecture and stunning views of the Goyt Valley. The Grimshawe family, who resided here from 1840 to 1930, played a significant role in the area's history.

During its heyday, Errwood Hall hosted lavish gatherings and social events, but tragedy struck in 1930 when the estate was demolished due to financial difficulties. Today, the haunting remains of Errwood Hall stand as a testament to a bygone era, inviting visitors to explore its enchanting grounds.

Goyt Valley Highlights

• Pym Chair

Folklore more your thing? Local legend has it that a highwayman called Pym used to lay in wait to ambush those who used the old packhorse route, hence the name Pym Chair given to one of the peaks in this mesmerising landscape.

• Shining Tor Trig Point

  Shining Tor, the highest point in Cheshire, is often included in walks through Goyt Valley… because if you can bag a few trigs in one walk, why wouldn’t you?

Fancy giving this one a go? Follow the route here