The Manifold Valley was once the route of the now dismantled Leek and Manifold Light railway, but the old track is used by walkers, hikers, cyclists and horse riders to enjoy the gentle meander of the river Manifold, the rounded domes of Ossoms and Wetton Hill, and the peacefulness of the valley.  Manifold Valley Barn Accommodation is a great place in which to stay to enjoy this area. This tarmacked track is car-free and is ideal for cyclists, horse riders and walkers alike. From Hulme end to Swainsley car park the track-bed provides excellent and safe wheelchair access.

Climb to the top of the gorge to look down into the valley and picture the steam engines smoke that used to plume through the valley. Though overshadowed by its more famous neighbour, the Dove, the River Manifold is still a beautiful river, with a lower section which is hardly less spectacular than Dovedale. During the summer when there is very little rainfall the magical Manifold river at Wetton Mill mysteriously disappears underground and only re-appears at the Boil Holes at Ilam Park a few miles downriver. Laden with lush green grasslands, thick woodlands and limestone crags, the Manifold Valley, contains a variety of rich wildlife.  Manifold Valley contains Thor’s Cave, a huge cave in a prominent spur high above the valley, which can be seen for miles around. The cave has yielded many objects of archaeological interest which show it was inhabited by both early man and prehistoric animals but it is now primarily an object of interest to tourists, who scramble to its entrance, climb through it and admire the view that has changed little since cavemen watched from outside their home. Check out the Manifold Valley Barn Accommodation here.