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Thor's Cave and Throwley Hall

Difficulty: Easy

Length: 10.5 Miles

Discover the beauty of the Peak District with a walk along the Manifold Way, linking the iconic Thor's Cave and the historic Throwley Hall. This easy hike, starting from the Wetton car park, offers stunning views and a diverse landscape. The 10.5 mile route follows mostly well-defined paths and sections of the former Leek and Manifold Light Railway, now a popular trail for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders. While generally easy, expect some steep sections, particularly around Thor's Cave.

Thor's Cave, a natural cavern set in a steep limestone crag, provides magnificent views across the Manifold Valley. The cave, formed thousands of years ago by underground streams, has evidence of human occupation dating back 10,000 years. The Manifold Way itself meanders through the valley, named for the "many folds" of the River Manifold, which disappears underground in dry spells before re-emerging near Ilam Hall. Along the way, you'll encounter the ruins of Throwley Old Hall, a medieval manor house with a rich history, dating back to 1203. The hall, once the home of the Meverell family, offers a glimpse into the region's past. This walk combines natural beauty with historical intrigue, making it a memorable Peak District experience.

Further Information

Wetton Mill, Thor's Cave, and Throwley Old Hall are nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Staffordshire, England, each offering a unique glimpse into the area's natural beauty and history. Wetton Mill, located in the Manifold Valley, was once a working corn mill dating back to at least 1857. Although the mill is no longer operational, the site is a popular destination for tourists and walkers, serving as a scenic picnic spot and tearoom. The area is steeped in history, with evidence of human activity dating back to the Late Pleistocene era found in nearby rock shelters.

A short distance from Wetton Mill lies Thor's Cave, a striking natural cavern formed in a steep limestone crag. The cave's large arched entrance is visible from the Manifold Way below, attracting visitors who come to explore its depths and enjoy the panoramic views of the valley. Thor's Cave has a rich history of human occupation, with archaeological discoveries indicating use from the Stone Age through the Roman period. Excavations have unearthed stone tools, pottery, and burial sites, suggesting its significance as a shelter and burial ground for ancient peoples.

Further south, near the village of Calton, stands the ruins of Throwley Old Hall. This once-stately home has a history dating back to the early 16th century, with the Meverell family residing there since the 13th century. The hall was largely rebuilt in 1603 but later suffered destruction during the Civil War and a fire in the mid-19th century. Despite its ruined state, Throwley Old Hall remains a scheduled monument, recognised for its historical and architectural value as a significant medieval manor house. The estate is now privately owned and part of a working farm, but its remnants offer a glimpse into the past and the lives of the families who once called it home.