How to spend a weekend in New Mills

Located in the High Peak is the picturesque town of New Mills. The town is home to the world-famous ‘Swizzels’ sweet factory and also offers countryside walks, cosy pubs and a high street with a selection of locally run shops and cafes.

Here is how to spend a weekend in New Mills: 

1. Explore the Millennium Walkway

A stone's throw away from New Mills Central station is the Mllennium Walkway where you can see stunning views of the River Goyt, as well as Torr Vale Mill. Built in the 1780s, it was used as a cotton mill and finally shut its doors in 2000. Now, the mill has its very own bar, and it regularly hosts community events – you can even book a wedding there too. 

2. Visit Torrs Riverside Park

After walking along the millennium walkway, why not visit the Torrs Riverside Park for a picnic. The park sits under a viaduct and you can see stunning views of the river and the surrounding green spaces. 

3. Watch a show at New Mills Spring Bank Arts Centre

The small Victorian chapel-of-ease has served the community of New Mills for nearly 130 years. It was once a fully functioning church with services but now the building has developed a new identity as a music venue. Upcoming gigs include Allison Lupton Band on April 12, Cri Du Carnard on April 19, and Hannah Sanders and Ben Savage on May 3. The centre also runs monthly coffee mornings - the one for this month is on Sunday, 21 April at 11am. 

4. High Lea Park

Known for its formal gardens, High Lea Park is one of New Mills' most popular parks. It’s perfect for the whole family with a range of gardens, woodland, play areas and High Lea Hall, which hosts a number of local community events. 

5. Visit the pubs

The High Peak offers a plethora of cosy village pubs serving local ale and a range of homemade meals. Favourites consist of the Pack Horse Inn on Mellor Road, the Pride of the Peaks on Market Street, The Little Mill Inn in Rowarth, The Lamb Inn in Hayfield on Hayfield Road, and the Mason Arms off the high street.

6. Shop along the High Street

New Mills high street is a few minutes' walk from New Mills Central and New Mills New Town train stations and has plenty of places to eat and shop. Local favourites include High Street Books and Records, Clockwork Cafe, On the Bridge cafe, and a selection of charity shops and gift shops such as Fi and Me.