LIGHT UP THE TORRS

‘Light up the Torrs’, described as an Enchanting Trail of Fire and Light, was organised to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the iconic Millennium Walkway. The organisers promised visitors a breathtaking trail through The Torrs, brought to life with incredible fire and light installations.

It didn’t disappoint. As I walked along this amazing steel structure with my wife, Marilyn, and three of our grandchildren, Archie, Bella and Sophie, we gazed in awe at this spectacular gorge which had been transformed into a theatre of vivid light. It was a fitting tribute to celebrate 25 years of this engineering masterpiece.

What is the Millennium Way?

The Millennium Way was created to celebrate the turn of the millennium in 2000. Designed as a celebration of the local heritage, natural beauty, and community spirit, the route takes you through the Torrs Riverside Park along riverside paths, and includes historical landmarks that tell the story of the town’s past.

Completed in 1999 to mark the turn of the millennium, this 160-metre cantilevered path clings to the sheer gritstone walls of the Torrs Gorge, hovering above the River Goyt like a steel spider’s web supported by stilts which rise from the riverbed below. And as you walk along it, the sound of the fast-flowing river rushing over the weir below, adds to the drama.

Before the walkway was built, the Torrs Gorge was famously described as “the last inaccessible place in England.” The gorge, nearly 100 feet below the town, was a dramatic divide between Torr Vale Mill and the towering railway embankment — a space rich in industrial archaeology but nearly impossible to traverse.

The walk along the Millennium is one of the most breathtaking views in New Mills. The Torrs Riverside Park, located beneath the town within a steep-sided gorge, is a place of natural beauty and geological intrigue. The walk passes over the River Goyt, with its steep cliffs in a dramatic landscape.

Historic Mills and WaterwaysThe route also passes the remains of several historic mills that once powered the town’s industry, part of the textile industry during the Industrial Revolution. Now, only the relics of this once thriving industrial community remain, and nature is taking over. You’ll find ash, oak, willow and alder trees, some rooted in the rockface. The birds have moved in too, and kingfishers, dippers and herons now inhabit the area.

Torr Vale Mill, a former cotton mill, sits on a rocky outcrop opposite the Millennium Walkway, and is a dominant feature here. Built in 1790, it was originally powered by two waterwheels used for spinning and weaving cotton. In 1856 the mill was expanded and a steam engine was added and then in the early 20^th Century, electricity was introduced. It wasn’t until December 2000 that textile production ceased at Torr Vale Mill. Unfortunately, a fire in 2001 destroyed much of the mill, but an ongoing programme of restoration and repair. Nowadays, it provides a unique venue for weddings and events. Torr Vale Tap provides a bar and eatery featuring outdoor terraces with striking views and an unusual ambience. There are also a few accommodation options if you want to stay somewhere completely different, training areas, event spaces and offices.

Last month, I was invited to make a presentation at the launch event of the High Peak Walking Festival, which was at Torr Vale Mill. After the event, we enjoyed a guided tour of the mill and we learned a lot about its history and re-purposing.

We were shown weaving and spinning machines and items of equipment that were once used at the mill. There were even items of clothing which had been left behind my mill workers – leather belts and shoes. It was fascinating.

The first stage of the Peak Way Walk, from Stockport to Hayfield, has a rich mix of history, nature, and beautiful countryside. The route passes below the town of New Mills along Millennium Way to its destination of Hayfield to complete the first stage. And so, when you walk it, you too will be very impressed as you walk across the Millennium Walkway in this spectacular gorge and you’ll inevitably feel compelled to photograph these memorable views as I did.

Light up the Torrs