We are the Biddulph Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Michael F.
We descend the steep slope from the lay-by and cross the River Goyt by the foot bridge. After passing Taxal Church we head uphill through pasture land and follow Taxal Edge across moorland and through a wood to the impressive gritstone outcrop of Windgather Rocks. Following the ridge south, we pass Pym Chair, then turn left and head downhill on the minor road and turn right onto a footpath to reach the interesting little St Joseph's Shrine at the edge of the woods. Continuing south along Foxlow Edge and descending through woodland and rhododendrons, we reach the ruins of Errwood Hall at the 5 mile point for our lunch stop. We continue downhill and follow paths northwards alongside woodland, the Errwood and Fernilee Reservoirs, and the River Goyt, back to the cars.
There are no toilets on the route, but there are several areas of dense woodland. The toilets in front of Whaley Bridge station, a mile north of the start, cannot be relied on, as they were locked when checked on Wednesday 4th December. No dogs please, as there may be sheep grazing in some areas. Gaiters and poles recommended
Lay-by on west side of A5004 about a mile south of Whaley Bridge. The route to it offered by your satnav from the Biddulph area is likely to go via Whaley Bridge, hence the lay-by will be on your RIGHT, so care is needed when turning in. It is best to enter the lay-by at the south end, so that you will be facing the right way to exit northwards. Alternatively, to avoid all these difficulties, take the slightly longer route via Buxton, so that the lay-by will be on your LEFT as you approach it from the south.
