Walking for wellbeing in High Peak's historic towns

Published on 18 March 2021

Walking is one of the activities we've all been able to enjoy despite the Covid restrictions and a new suite of leaflets has been launched to encourage people to explore the central area of High Peak on foot.

The Borough Council has commissioned leaflets detailing walking routes, and the points of interest along them, in Chapel-en-le-Frith, New Mills and Whaley Bridge supported by newly-installed interpretation panels at key locations in each town.

Following the Toddbrook incident in August 2019, the Council received funding to help these towns recover by boosting the local economy and encouraging people to take a fresh look at what they have to offer.

Working with the Town Councils, businesses and communities, several projects have been identified including these walking leaflets.

Councillor Damien Greenhalgh, Deputy Leader and Executive Councillor for Regeneration, Tourism and Leisure, said: "People may think they already know these towns well but there's so much to explore - from award-winning parks to canal basins and dramatic river-side walks, historic market places and our industrial mill heritage all capped by stunning views of the Peak District landscape - and each town has a history and character all of its own.

"These leaflets suggest routes which really capture the unique elements of each town and take walkers to some of the best places the High Peak has to offer. We're delighted to have been part of the teams that have developed them and thrilled to now be able to share them with everyone."

The Whaley Bridge leaflet is also being supported by Whaley Active. Established last spring, this group of like-minded locals aims to promote physical activity in everything we do, linking people to the activities taking place in and around the town to encourage everyone to move more and take more exercise.

Councillor Greenhalgh added: "Moving more and being active are so important for both our physical and mental health - as more and more of us have to come to realise and value more than ever these past 12 months. It's great that local people are taking the initiative to get together to share the opportunities and benefits and we are keen to work with Whaley Active and other groups like them.

"Being able to spend time outdoors in our local area is something we continue to be able to do in a safe way and walking is a great way of staying active.

"Our parks and local green spaces have proved a lifeline and continue to be popular places but the routes and places listed in these leaflets might just open to your eyes to hidden a gem on your doorstep that you hadn't realised was there. I'd encourage everyone to take a look at the walks and consider trying a new route next time you're planning to blow away the cobwebs, take your daily exercise, or just going to the shops."

The leaflets are available at key locations and shops within the towns or you can download them from these websites: www.highpeak.gov.uk/article/6542/High-Peak-Walks, www.visitnewmills.co.uk, www.whaleybridge.com and www.visitchapel.co.uk