What Is the Manifold Track?

The Manifold Track follows the route of the former Leek and Manifold Light Railway, a narrow-gauge railway that opened in 1904 and closed in 1934.

Today, the old railway has been transformed into a walking and cycling route through one of the loveliest valleys in the Staffordshire Peak District.

Route and Landscape

The trail runs for approximately nine miles between Hulme End in the north and Waterhouses in the south.

Much of the route follows the valley floor alongside the rivers Manifold and Hamps, surrounded by limestone hills, woodland and farmland.

One of the most fascinating things about the Manifold is that the river can seemingly disappear.

During dry periods, sections of the River Manifold vanish underground through limestone sinkholes before the water eventually emerges again further downstream.

As you travel along the route, you'll also pass some of the valley's best-known landmarks, including Wetton Mill, Swainsley Tunnel and Thor's Cave.

The landscape changes gently as you go, so there's always something new around the next corner.

Walking, Cycling and Horse Riding

The Manifold Track is popular with walkers, cyclists and horse riders.

Much of the route follows the former railway and is surfaced, making it considerably easier underfoot than many traditional Peak District paths.

That makes it particularly appealing for families and anyone wanting a gentler day after tackling some of the area's hillier walks.

However, it's important to know that the entire route isn't traffic-free.

A section between Swainsley and Wetton Mill is shared with motor vehicles. This section also passes through Swainsley Tunnel, which is around 100 metres long. The tunnel is illuminated but can still feel quite dark, so cyclists and families should take extra care.

You'll also be sharing the route with other walkers, cyclists and horse riders, so be considerate and give everyone plenty of space.

Starting at Hulme End

For guests staying at Hartington Hills, Hulme End is the obvious place to begin.

The Manifold Track starts close to the former Hulme End railway station, where you'll also find the National Park car park.

From here, you simply follow the old railway south into the valley.

Before your visit, have a read of our Hulme End guide to find out more about our nearest village and what you'll find there.

Planning Your Walk or Cycle Ride

One of the best things about the Manifold Track is that you don't have to complete all nine miles to enjoy it.

Choose a distance that suits you and make the day as leisurely or energetic as you like.

Short Route Options

If you only want a gentle walk, start at Hulme End and simply follow the track for as long as you fancy before turning around.

Because the route follows the valley rather than climbing immediately onto the surrounding hills, it's an easy way to enjoy the scenery without committing to a strenuous Peak District hike.

This can be particularly useful if you're travelling with younger children, older relatives or a dog that doesn't need a 15-mile expedition.

You can also combine sections of the Manifold Track with surrounding footpaths if you'd prefer to create a circular walk.

The Full Trail

If you're feeling more energetic, you can follow the Manifold Track all the way between Hulme End and Waterhouses.

The complete route is approximately nine miles each way, so remember that travelling the whole trail from Hulme End and returning the same way makes for a considerably longer day.

Cyclists can cover the distance relatively comfortably, while walkers may prefer to arrange transport at the other end or complete a shorter section.

Waterhouses has shops and places for refreshments, making it a natural destination if you're completing the whole trail.

Plan your return journey before setting off rather than reaching the other end and only then wondering how you're getting back!

Cycle Hire

If you'd like to cycle during your Peak District holiday but don't want to bring bikes with you, there are cycle-hire centres elsewhere in the National Park.

At the time of writing, bike hire is available at the Manifold Station Cycle Hire & Cafe in Waterhouses. The Peak District National Park Authority also operates cycle hire at Parsley Hay and Ashbourne for the Tissington Trail.

Parsley Hay is the most relevant of these for visitors staying around Hartington and provides access to several excellent White Peak cycling routes. You can collect the bikes from Parsley Hay and cycle into Hulme End to ride the Manifold Way if you don't want to collect bikes from Waterhouses.

Opening arrangements and bike availability can change, so always check current information and book ahead where possible.

If exploring the Manifold Track itself is your priority, bringing your own bikes may therefore be the simplest option.

Surfaces and Accessibility

Much of the Manifold Track benefits from the relatively gentle gradients you'd expect from a former railway.

That makes sections of it more accessible than many of the Peak District's traditional walking routes.

However, don't assume that every part of the trail will suit every visitor.

There are road sections, gates and changing surfaces, and conditions can vary with the weather.

If accessibility is important to your visit, we'd recommend checking the National Park's current Miles Without Stiles information before setting out. There is an accessible Manifold Way route between Wetton Mill and Weag's Bridge specifically designed to provide easier access to this beautiful part of the valley.

Visiting Thor's Cave

If there's one landmark almost guaranteed to make you stop and look up, it's Thor's Cave.

Its enormous arched entrance sits high in a limestone crag overlooking the Manifold Valley and can be seen clearly from the trail below.

It's one of the most distinctive natural landmarks in this part of the Peak District.

Where Is Thor's Cave?

Thor's Cave lies above the Manifold Valley between Wetton and Grindon.

If you're travelling south along the Manifold Track from Hulme End, you'll eventually see the huge cave entrance in the hillside above you.

The cave has an extraordinary history.

Archaeological discoveries show that humans were using the cave more than 10,000 years ago, with excavations uncovering evidence from the Stone Age through to the Iron Age and Roman period.

It isn't difficult to understand why the cave has captured people's imaginations for so long.

Reaching the Cave

You can't cycle directly into Thor's Cave from the Manifold Track.

To visit it, you'll need to leave the main trail and follow the stepped footpath up towards the cave.

Please use the recognised path rather than attempting to scramble up alternative routes on the limestone hillside.

Once you've finished exploring, return to the Manifold Track and continue your walk or cycle through the valley.

If you're travelling by bike, make sure you have somewhere appropriate and secure to leave it before making the climb.

The Climb and Terrain

This is the point where your gentle former-railway adventure becomes rather more adventurous.

The climb to Thor's Cave is steep in places and involves steps and uneven limestone.

The entrance itself is also rocky and the limestone can become extremely slippery when wet.

Wear proper footwear with good grip rather than attempting the climb in unsuitable shoes.

After heavy rain, conditions can be particularly slippery, and you should always be prepared to turn back if you don't feel comfortable.

The cave isn't going anywhere.

You can always come back another day.

Safety Considerations

Thor's Cave is a natural feature rather than a managed show cave.

There are no paved floors, handrails or lighting once you're inside.

Take particular care around the cave entrance and on wet rock, and supervise children closely.

A torch or head torch is useful if you want to see further into the cave, although you shouldn't venture into areas where you aren't confident about the terrain.

Dogs may also struggle with the steep, slippery approach depending on their size, age and confidence.

Most importantly, don't take unnecessary risks for a photograph.

The view will still be there from somewhere safer.

Facilities and Practical Information

The Manifold Valley feels wonderfully rural, but there are still a few useful facilities along the way.

Parking

If you're driving to the start of the trail, there is a Peak District National Park Authority car park at Hulme End, conveniently located next to the Tea Junction Cafe.

It has approximately 75 spaces and is pay and display.

Parking charges and payment arrangements can change, so check the latest National Park information before travelling.

If you're staying at Hartington Hills, however, there's another option:

Leave the car on your pitch.

Hulme End is approximately 0.7 miles away, so walking from the campsite means you can start your day without having to find another parking space.

Toilets

Public facilities in rural areas can change, so it's worth planning toilet stops before setting off on a longer walk or ride. There are public toilets at the start of the Manifold Way at Hulme End located next to the Tea Junction Cafe. There are also toilets at Wetton Mill.

Facilities are available at various locations around the wider Manifold Valley and surrounding villages, but opening times may vary.

If you're staying at Hartington Hills, you can of course use our Facilities before you set off and when you return.

Food and Refreshments

There are a couple of particularly good opportunities for refreshments along the route.

The Tea Junction is located at the start and is a lovely tea room with a picnic area.

Wetton Mill is a popular stopping point, just before Thor's Cave and has a tearoom and picnic area, making it a very tempting place to break up your journey.

At the southern end, Waterhouses has further amenities including places to eat and buy supplies.

Back at Hulme End, The Manifold Inn pub is conveniently located for a post-walk drink or meal.

We'd always recommend checking current opening hours before relying on a particular café or pub, especially outside the main holiday season.

And even if you're planning a café stop, carry water and snacks with you.

A slice of cake is a wonderful walking incentive, but it's best not to make your entire survival strategy dependent on one.

Visiting with Children or Dogs

The Manifold Track can be an excellent option for families because much of it is relatively level and straightforward compared with more challenging Peak District walks.

Just remember that sections are shared with vehicles and that cyclists and horse riders also use the route.

Thor's Cave requires considerably more care.

The steep climb and slippery limestone won't suit every young child, so judge it according to their confidence, ability and the conditions on the day.

Dogs can enjoy the Manifold Valley too, but keep them under close control around livestock and other trail users.

Bring water for them and take extra care if you're considering the climb to Thor's Cave.

Staying Near the Manifold Valley

If exploring the Manifold Valley is high on your Peak District wish list, staying near Hulme End makes everything considerably easier.

What Else to Do Around Hulme End

The Manifold Track is only the beginning.

The surrounding countryside offers fantastic walking, with routes towards Ecton Hill, Wetton, Hartington and the wider Staffordshire Moorlands.

Hartington itself is also nearby, while attractions including Dovedale, the Tissington Trail, Chatsworth, Bakewell and Buxton are all within reach for longer days out.

Have a browse through our Things to Do pages for more inspiration.

Reaching the Route from Hartington Hills

Hartington Hills is approximately 0.7 miles from Hulme End, making the Manifold Track one of the easiest local attractions to enjoy during your stay.

You can walk from the campsite towards Hulme End and join the trail there, leaving your car behind for the day.

Afterwards, simply make your way back to Hartington Hills, take off the muddy boots and enjoy a hot shower before settling down for the evening.

If you're bringing your caravan or motorhome, take a look at our Touring pitches, or explore everything available on our Facilities page.

You can also use our Find Us information to plan your journey before setting off.

For us, that's one of the joys of our location.

Some visitors travel across the Peak District specifically to experience the Manifold Valley and Thor's Cave.

When you stay at Hartington Hills, the start of the adventure is practically on your doorstep.

So pack your walking boots, bring the bikes if you have them, check the weather and head down towards Hulme End.

Then you just have to decide how far along the valley you're going to explore.

Book your stay at Hartington Hills and make the Manifold Valley part of your next Peak District adventure.