Tucked away in the heart of the Derbyshire Peak District, the Millennium Walkway is one of the most striking—and surprisingly lesser-known—engineering marvels of the region. Suspended alongside a steep gorge above the River Goyt in the town of New Mills, this unique walkway blends dramatic scenery with industrial heritage, creating an unforgettable experience for walkers, photographers, and history enthusiasts alike.
Getting There
New Mills is located in the north-western part of Derbyshire, easily accessible from most major towns and cities in the North West and Midlands. By car, simply follow signs for the Peak District National Park and head towards New Mills via the A6. From Manchester or Sheffield, it’s roughly a 45-minute drive. There is parking available in the town centre, including spaces near the New Mills Central railway station.
Alternatively, New Mills is well served by public transport. Trains run regularly to New Mills Central and New Mills Newtown stations from Manchester, Sheffield, and Buxton. Once you’re off the train, it’s just a short 5–10-minute walk to the start of the walkway.
What Is the Millennium Walkway?
Completed in 1999 to mark the turn of the millennium, the walkway is a 160-metre-long cantilevered path, attached to the sheer rock face of the Torrs gorge. Suspended above the River Goyt and hugging the natural contours of the landscape, the structure gives the illusion of floating through the air. It was designed as a way to connect the town’s footpaths and allow pedestrians to bypass a previously impassable section of the gorge.
Its construction was no small feat—engineers had to work within the confines of a tight, narrow gorge, balancing the need to preserve the environment with the ambition to create a modern link between past and present. The result is both elegant and robust: a metal mesh path supported by a series of graceful steel brackets that curve out from the cliff face.
It’s no wonder that the Millennium Walkway has won several architectural and civic design awards since its opening.
Landmarks to Explore
While the walkway itself is the main draw, it’s far from the only point of interest in the area. Just above the gorge lies the Torrs Riverside Park, a steep-sided valley that’s been transformed from a former industrial hub into a lush, green haven. Here, you can still see the remnants of old mills, weirs, and stone structures that hint at the town’s past as a centre for cotton and textile production during the Industrial Revolution.
Notably, visitors will find Torr Vale Mill, a Grade II-listed building that operated for over 200 years. Though no longer in use for textile manufacturing, the mill remains an iconic landmark and a striking reminder of Britain’s industrial past.
Also nearby is The Archimedes Screw, a modern hydroelectric project installed in 2008. It’s a working example of renewable energy in action, using the force of the river to generate power for local homes—a perfect blend of history and sustainability.
Walks in the Area
For those looking to explore beyond the walkway itself, New Mills is an excellent base for walking. The town is intersected by the Sett Valley Trail, a 2.5-mile path running from New Mills to Hayfield. It’s a relatively gentle route, suitable for families and casual walkers, and follows the line of a disused railway track, making it smooth and accessible.
For something more challenging, try linking the Millennium Walkway with a loop that includes the Goyt Way—a scenic section of the Midshires Way, a long-distance path that spans several counties. This will take you through tranquil woodland, over stone bridges, and along the winding River Goyt.
More seasoned hikers can continue on to Kinder Scout, the highest point in the Peak District, just a few miles to the east. This route requires a bit more stamina but rewards walkers with sweeping moorland views and a taste of true wild country.
Interesting Facts
- The Millennium Walkway was built at a cost of approximately £525,000, funded by a combination of public grants, local authority investment, and European funding.
- New Mills has been a centre of innovation for centuries; it was one of the earliest towns to harness hydropower for industrial use.
- The gorge where the walkway now stands was once a no-go zone, blocked by water, rocks, and derelict buildings—now it’s a celebrated path for leisure and learning.
- The entire area forms part of the Sett Valley Heritage Trail, which includes information boards, guided walks, and heritage events throughout the year.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a keen hiker, a lover of architecture, or simply someone looking for a new spot to stretch your legs and enjoy some fresh air, the Millennium Walkway is well worth a visit. It’s an inspiring blend of natural beauty, historical depth, and modern ingenuity—all within walking distance of a charming Peak District town.
So lace up your boots, grab your camera, and prepare to see Derbyshire from a new perspective—suspended above a river, walking through time.
