What to Expect

This walk through the Goyt Valley and up to Cats Tor and Shining Tor offers up some incredible Autumn colours through peaceful woodland and amazing moorland views. Starting in the wooded heart of the valley, the route climbs steadily onto open ridges, where panoramic views stretch across the Peak District and into the Cheshire Plain. The gentle ridge walk between Cats Tor and Shining Tor, the highest point in Cheshire, is a scenic highlight, especially on a clear day. 

We start with a flat but even track next to the reservoir before a steep incline onto the top. The going is undulating to the Ethels. We walk alongside a country lane so dogs may need to be kept on the lead. There is a wall and fence separating us from the road. It's a nice descent through fields and back along the reservoir to the car. The tops are exposed but we do have some forest cover further down the hill. We pass an area called Windgather Rocks, known for this wind, so plenty of layers please! There is livestock around throughout.