Goytsclough parking closed

Goytsclough parking closed

Above: a long line of giant boulders now borders the previously open parking areas at Goytsclough. Forestry England has closed off the popular parking areas in Goytsclough with a line of large boulders. A notice explains that they’ve taken what they say was a...
The vanished footbridge

The vanished footbridge

Above: These two ladies kindly allowed me to take their photo as they pondered how best to cross the stream. It was very muddy and slippery and both were nervous about tackling the slope and then finding a way across the stones. I first noticed that the attractive...
Grouse shooting ban

Grouse shooting ban

Above: Rectangular strips of lighter vegetation are a common sight across the moorlands above the Goyt Valley. They’re areas that have been cut back to encourage new plant growth for young and nesting grouse.  A recent announcement by United Utilities that they...
What is it with UU?

What is it with UU?

Above: Memorial benches provide places to rest and take in the wonderful views. So why does UU no longer allow them? I often receive messages from people asking how they could go about installing a bench or a plaque in memory of a loved one in the Goyt Valley....
New info boards

New info boards

Above: The display board near the southern end of Fernilee Reservoir. It’s good to see that the landowners, United Utilities, seem to be taking more of an interest in looking after the valley and promoting its rich cultural heritage. The packhorse bridge was...
Packhorse bridge reopened

Packhorse bridge reopened

Above: It’s wonderful to see the picturesque packhorse bridge returned to its former glory, and reopened for walkers. The historic packhorse bridge that once lay in the heart of Goyt’s Bridge has finally been repaired and the barriers removed. It took...
Fencing the valley

Fencing the valley

Above: a newly erected gate and stretch of fencing along the old Cromford & High Peak Railway track. They mystery over the fencing that started appearing over a year ago in various parts of the valley seems to have been solved. A recently erected noticeboard...
Packhorse bridge closed

Packhorse bridge closed

Above: A small plaque beside the bridge explains that it was rebuilt here in 1965 during the construction of the reservoir. The packhorse bridge has now been closed for a few weeks waiting for the land-owners, United Utilities, to repair the stonework at the foot of...