Walking & hiking from the front door
Manifold Valley Walks from Hamps Hall and Barn
The Manifold Track, Thor’s Cave and Dovedale, all within easy reach of your Peak District house for 40.
The Manifold Track starts in Waterhouses · Thor’s Cave · Dovedale stepping stones · OS map OL24 White Peak
Waterhouses, Staffordshire
Easy, beautiful walking on your doorstep
Hamps Hall and Barn sits in Waterhouses, on the southern edge of the Peak District, where the Hamps and Manifold valleys meet. The Manifold Track begins in the village, so you can set off on foot without getting in the car.
Follow the old railway line through wooded limestone valleys to Thor’s Cave, or head across the fields to Calton and Wetton. Dovedale, Ilam Park and the market town of Ashbourne are all a short drive away, so there is a walk for every group, from a gentle stroll with pushchairs to a full day on the hills.
Walking routes from Hamps Hall and Barn
Four routes to suit every group, from flat and family-friendly to a proper day out.
Route 1
The Manifold Track
The old Leek and Manifold Light Railway line starts in Waterhouses and follows the Hamps and Manifold valleys north to Hulme End. It is flat and surfaced all the way, so it suits pushchairs, wheelchairs and bikes. Walk as far as you like and turn back, or keep going to Thor’s Cave, about 4 miles along the track.
Manifold Track route and map →Peak District National Park guide with access points, parking and cycle hire.
Route 2
Calton & Manifold Valley Circular
A longer loop over the limestone fields to the hamlet of Calton, down into the Manifold Valley and back along the river. Calton is a short walk from the hall, making this a good full-day walk without needing the car.
Route 3
Thor’s Cave & the Manifold Valley from Wetton
Start in the village of Wetton, about 15 minutes’ drive away, and climb up to the huge mouth of Thor’s Cave for one of the best views in the White Peak. The route then drops into the Manifold Valley and returns past Wetton Mill.
Full route guide →OS Maps · GPX download · Grindon circular on AllTrails
Route 4
Ilam Park to the Dovedale Stepping Stones
A short, popular walk from the National Trust’s Ilam Park, around 20 minutes’ drive away, to the famous stepping stones across the River Dove beneath Thorpe Cloud. Ideal for a morning out with the whole group, with tea rooms at Ilam Park.
National Trust route and map →Want more? Try the National Trust’s 10-mile Manifold Valley walk.
Thor’s Cave
A giant cave high above the Manifold
Thor’s Cave is a natural limestone cavern with a 10-metre-high entrance, set into a crag 80 metres above the Manifold Valley. Archaeologists have found evidence of people using it as far back as the Stone Age, and today it is one of the most photographed spots in the Peak District.
Climb the stone steps from the Manifold Track to stand in the entrance and look out across the valley. Take care, as the rock inside can be very slippery.
More to discover on foot
Dovedale Stepping Stones
Cross the River Dove on the famous stepping stones, then climb Thorpe Cloud for views down the dale.
Ilam Park
National Trust parkland with riverside paths, a tea room and views towards Dovedale.
Wetton Mill
A handy halfway stop in the Manifold Valley, with a café and the dramatic Nan Tor caves close by.
Ashbourne
The gateway to Dovedale, with independent shops, pubs and the Tissington Trail on the edge of town.
Before you go
Walking tips
- Pick up OS Explorer map OL24, The White Peak, before your stay
- Wear proper walking boots for the hill routes, as limestone paths can be slippery when wet
- The weather changes quickly on the tops, so pack waterproofs
- The Manifold Track is flat and surfaced, so it is ideal for pushchairs, wheelchairs and bikes
- Dogs are welcome on the paths, but keep them on a lead near sheep and cattle
- The Ye Olde Crown Inn in Waterhouses is a short walk from the hall for a well-earned drink afterwards
Walking FAQs
Can you walk from Hamps Hall and Barn?
Yes. The Manifold Track starts in Waterhouses, close to the hall, and footpaths lead across the fields to Calton and the Manifold Valley. The village church is about a 10-minute walk away.
How long is the Manifold Track?
The Manifold Track runs for about 8 miles from Waterhouses to Hulme End. It is flat and surfaced, so you can walk as far as you like and turn back. Thor’s Cave is about 4 miles along.
Can I take a pushchair, wheelchair or bike on the Manifold Track?
Yes. It follows the old Leek and Manifold Light Railway line, so it is level and surfaced all the way. Some short sections are shared with quiet roads.
How far is Thor’s Cave from Hamps Hall and Barn?
About 4 miles along the Manifold Track on foot, or around 15 minutes’ drive to Wetton, where the 4.7-mile Thor’s Cave circular begins.
Which OS map covers the walks near Hamps Hall and Barn?
OS Explorer OL24, The White Peak, covers Waterhouses, the Manifold Valley, Dovedale and Ilam.
Can I bring my dog on the walks?
Yes, dogs are welcome on all of these routes. Please keep them on a lead around livestock. Hamps Hall and Barn is also dog-friendly.
Photos via Wikimedia Commons: Manifold Valley from Ecton Hill by Chris Morgan (CC BY-SA 2.0); Manifold Way near Wetton by Hogyn Lleol (public domain); Thor’s Cave by Martin Spamer (CC BY-SA 3.0); stepping stones over the River Dove by DJDunsie (CC BY 3.0).
Stay in the heart of the Manifold Valley
Hamps Hall and Barn sleeps 40. Check dates and prices online, or call us on 01273 271 332.