Follow the River Goyt on This New Peak District Walking Route

Walkers can now trace the path of a lovely, pastoral river thanks to the new 62-mile Steel Cotton Rail Trail. A significant section of this new route, which links Manchester and Sheffield, joins the River Goyt, offering a mellow and scenic amble through the countryside.
The Goyt threads a pastoral squiggle all the way from the soggy moorlands near Macclesfield to Stockport, where it joins the Mersey. The new trail picks up sections of the existing Goyt Way, a long-distance path, guiding walkers along its banks and through the valley.
This part of the trail is an easy-going walk, perfect for those looking for a relaxing day out. The path leads adventurers to the town of New Mills, where the river’s character changes dramatically, carving deep, vertiginous gorges. Here, walkers can cross the sweeping steel Millennium Walkway.
The trail later follows the river into Mousley Bottom nature reserve. This pretty patch of woodland is a prime example of the “post-industrial” theme, as it occupies an area previously used as a landfill site, gasworks, and sewage works. It’s a beautiful testament to nature’s resilience.
This riverside section is just one of 14 day-friendly, rail-linked stages. It’s an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy the gentle side of the Peak District, with the convenience of train access and the beauty of an autumn walk.