Above: The ford over the Goyt at Taxal at the northern end of the valley is a wonderfully scenic spot. And only a short walk from the centre of Whaley Bridge (see walk 5). 

There’s an hourly train service to Whaley Bridge on the Buxton to Manchester line. As well as a regular bus service.

Public transport

Irene recently sent a message asking about public transport to the Goyt Valley…

This looks like a place I’d love to visit and walk around. However, although you give lots of information on car parks, there’s nothing on the closest public transport for people like me who don’t have a car.

How close is it to bus routes between Stockport and Buxton?

There are two walks in this series which start close to bus and train routes: Walk 5 from Whaley Bridge to Taxal is the easiest (and shortest at just 3 miles). This walk can easily be extended by carrying on to Fernilee Reservoir, and even Errwood Reservoir further to the south.

Walk 9 from Buxton to Errwood Reservoir is longer at 8 miles. But the rewards are some stunning views across the valley, although some of the paths can get muddy after rain.

Page update: Here are a couple more suggestions from the Goyt Valley Facebook Group…

Chris: From Buxton (train or bus), head to Burbage on the Leek Rd and bear right onto Bishops Lane. Signposts at the top where the posh houses are, take you left, up the steep track where you emerge on the top, with Burbage Tunnel underneath (of the old C&HPR).

You then descend down the narrow track where you emerge at the tunnel entrance. You can then follow the railway line till you come out on Goyt’s Lane, top of the incline, or cut down the gorge emerging at the bridge at Wildmoorstone Brook.

Mark: If you don’t mind a couple of miles walk, then train to Whaley Bridge, walk up reservoir road to the sailing club, cross the dam, work your way up to Macclesfield Road, Linglongs Road then walk into Taxal, turn down towards the river after you have passed the church, turn left at the river, cross over the bridge and then right again following the River Goyt and go as far as you want.