Whaley Bridge

About

Known as the 'Gateway to the Goyt Valley', Whaley Bridge, boasts a tranquil location at the head of the scenic Peak Forest Canal.

Centred around a conservation area and the Grade II* listed Transhipment Warehouse, once a key transfer station for limestone shipped across the UK, the town's aquatic heritage is celebrated each June during W3 - the Whaley Water Weekend.

Other traditional annual events include the Rose Queen Festival and Carnival and the ancient Peak District and Derbyshire tradition of Well Dressing, also in June.

The tree-lined canal towpath lends itself to leisurely walking and cycling to both Bridgemont and historic Bugsworth Basin, and is also the starting point for long distance routes such as the Goyt Way and Midshires Way.

Bugsworth Basin, dating back to 1796, was once one of the largest inland ports ever built on the English canal network, and has been sensitively restored as a monument to 18th and 19th century industrial enterprise.

During its heyday, Bugsworth Basin handled more than 600 tons of limestone per day, but went into decline with the rise of the railways, closing in 1927.

Back in Whaley Bridge, visitors can count on a good choice of small, independent shops selling everything from cycles and special gifts to fine wine and locally-produced food, including a monthly Farmers' Market, plus a selection of friendly pubs, restaurants and cafés.

Within easy walking distance is Toddbrook Reservoir - a beautiful setting for fishing, sailing, canoeing and walking - while a short drive away, the scenic Goyt Valley, with its reservoirs and wooded hillsides, is the perfect location for longer walks.

Another option for a bracing walk and breathtaking views is Windgather Rocks, where climbers regularly practise their rock-scaling skills and walkers pause for a fortifying picnic when exploring the windswept moors of the Dark Peak.