The Peak Forest Canal has a double significance in Furness Vale: it is part of the village’s history, and its upper section passes close to the village. The trails also offer different experiences, from a walk with a specific walking time to the steeper Goyt Way. The river landscape and industrial history provide further points to consider when planning a stay.

Trail profiles from a walk to far-reaching views

The Furness Vale Walk is 1.6 miles (2.7 kilometres) long and takes about 43 minutes. It starts in the centre of Furness Vale and leads into Diglee Clough. From Broadhey Hill, the trail offers views across the remains of Kiln Knoll Barrow. The approximate duration helps you estimate the time needed for this walk; the starting point in the village and the named landscape features also provide clear landmarks. Views of the remains of the barrow add an archaeological feature to the walk.

The Upper Peak Forest Canal Trail is relatively flat and easy to walk. It is suitable for cyclists and walkers, as well as for wheelchair and pushchair users. In clear conditions, views from the trail extend as far as Kinder Scout. Both the terrain and the stated accessibility options therefore matter when choosing a route; the view is explicitly dependent on clear conditions.

The Goyt Way offers a different experience. The path becomes steeper as it climbs from Furness Vale and can be very muddy in places. Near Kiln Knoll, it offers views of New Mills and as far as Manchester. This contrasts with the relatively flat profile of the Canal Trail, with a steeper climb and potentially muddy sections. The viewpoints also differ: in clear conditions, the Canal Trail offers views as far as Kinder Scout, while the Goyt Way looks out over New Mills towards Manchester.

The River Goyt and the valley floor

Around Furness Vale, the River Goyt is associated with a patchwork of pasture. Its defining feature is a meandering river in a flat alluvial floodplain. Unlike the views from Broadhey Hill and near Kiln Knoll, this landscape description focuses on the valley itself: the river, the plain and the pasture together shape its character.

The Peak Forest Canal and industrial history

Furness Vale Printworks was founded by Samuel Gratrix in 1794. The Peak Forest Canal served the works as a transport route to Manchester. At its peak, up to 40 boats a day travelled through Furness Vale on the canal. The village’s history therefore brings together a specifically named business, a transport link to Manchester and historic boat traffic through the village. For visitors interested in industrial heritage, this connection makes the canal interesting beyond its role in the landscape.

Which trail features matter most?

You can compare the routes using different criteria: the approximate duration is given for the Furness Vale Walk, while the Upper Peak Forest Canal Trail stands out for its relatively flat profile and the stated accessibility options. The Goyt Way differs in its steeper climb and the possibility of muddy sections. The viewpoints offer further points of interest, from the remains of Kiln Knoll Barrow to Kinder Scout, New Mills and Manchester. This allows you to choose based on the time available, the trail profile or your interest in the landscape.

Discover more destinations: Wirksworth, Barlborough, South Wingfield, Kirk Ireton, Castleton, Eckington, Scarcliffe, Yeaveley.

Back to the regional travel overview: Derbyshire.