Here in Manchester we’re lucky to have the impressive Peak District right on our doorstep. It’s a national park full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered, from caves with underground lakes, stunning walks and mesmerising waterfalls.
It’s also home to several ruins, which have been intriguing visitors for decades. One of them is the mysterious Errwood Hall, located in the beautiful Goyt Valley, not far from Buxton.
Nestled among the trees are the ruins of the once grand country house, which was built in the 1830s by Samuel Grimshawe, a wealthy Manchester businessman. The hall was part of a huge 2,000 acre estate. Grimshawe’s grandchildren were the last generation to live in the hall which was later demolished when the Fernilee Reservoir was built in 1934.
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Today you can see the foundations of the ground floor along with a section of the wall with a few archways. The ruins of the family graveyard are located nearby to the west of the hall.
There’s also a small shrine north of the hall, dedicated to a Spanish teacher and governess to the Grimshawe family. Surrounding the hall you’ll spot rhododendrons which were planted by the Grimshawes.
There’s a three-mile circular walk you can take which includes Errwood Hall and is ideal for enjoying the beautiful scenery of the Goyt Valley. You can begin the walk at the Errwood Hall car park following the signs for the ruins, walking up the slopes.
Once you get to the hall you can have a wander around the ruins and imagine what the hall would have looked like. There’s a path you can follow through the trees which will take you to the remains of Castedge Cottage, where you can the see the outline of the former farmhouse.
Keep going upwards and you’ll find the eerie family graveyard. Return via the same path and after crossing a footbridge, follow the sign to Pym Chair where you’ll spot the shrine. Head along Foxlow Edge where you can enjoy the views, before walking back to the car park.
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