Manifold Way

The Manifold Way, also called the Manifold Track, is an 8-mile one-way walk from Hulme End to Waterhouses. It follows the former Leek and Manifold Valley Light Railway through the limestone valleys of the Manifold and Hamps. Most of it is surfaced and fairly level, with wooded slopes, crags and stretches beside the river. Allow 4–4.5 hours on foot; exploring the cave adds time.

From Hulme End’s old station, follow the former line south. It carried milk and passengers from 1904 to 1934; Ecton Creamery sent most of its milk to London. Wetton Mill, a former corn mill, is now a tearoom. Thor’s Cave’s tall arch rises above the track; a stepped spur reaches its entrance but can be difficult when wet. South of the mill, the Manifold sinks into limestone and resurfaces at Ilam about five miles away. Weag’s Bridge is a photogenic stone span over the river; the way then follows the Hamps to Waterhouses.

This is point to point, so plan your return; one section uses a minor road through Swainsley Tunnel. Hulme End has a 75-space pay-and-display car park (coins only), accessible toilets and a café in the old engine shed. Wetton Mill has public toilets, and Waterhouses has toilets, a pub, café and convenience store. Dogs are allowed on lead. For a shorter walk, the park maps an accessible 2.8 km section from Wetton Mill to Weag’s Bridge.