Errwood Reservoir In Goyt Valley: 5 Mile Circular Route

The Errwood Reservoir circular in the Goyt Valley is one of those walks that perfectly blends peaceful scenery with a touch of history. This 5-mile route winds through a landscape of wooded slopes, open moorland, and calm waters. It’s a gentle yet rewarding loop — with plenty to see along the way.

Starting from one of the car parks along the valley, the path leads you past old stone walls, woodland, and provides views across the tranquil water. A short detour takes you to the ruins of Errwood Hall, once home to a wealthy Victorian family and now half-claimed by moss. It’s a beautiful reminder of how nature slowly reclaims what’s left behind.

Whether you come for the scenery, the solitude, or a quiet afternoon escape, the Goyt Valley never disappoints — it’s one of those places that feels timeless, no matter the season. We would suggest spring or autumn as the perfect seasons to walk this route with the vibrant colours and the light helping to make it feel that little bit more special.

Errwood Reservoir route description

Stage 1 – Street car park to the River Goyt

From the car park head up the slope, past the information board and then take a left (keeping the stone wall to your left). Follow this track along for awhile until it eventually brings you out back on the road. Cross over to the other side and head through the gate at the side. Known as the ‘Riverside Path’ the track leads down to the River Goyt. The track leads to some steep steps which will return you to the road side again. Here take a left and walk along a short distance where you reach a bench. A good spot for a quick refreshment break and to take in the view. Take the narrow path leading down to the Packhorse Bridge. Cross over the bridge and head left heading back alongside the opposite side of Errwood Reservoir.

Stage 2 – The River Goyt and views of Errwood Reservoir

This section of the walk gets very muddy and boggy after rainfall but all of it should be easy enough to navigate. As you continue along Errwood Reservoir will soon come back into view. Keep to the right of the stone walls and enjoy some stunning views of the reservoir. At the footpath sign follow the track down to the left towards Errwood. As you reach the foot of the track cross over the footbridge and take the track that winds around to your left. As you reach the reservoir there is another spot with benches to take in the views.

Directly in front of you the path divides, take the slightly higher track and follow it around and then drop down towards the woodland. Walk up through the woodland (this can be a bit trickier if there has been bad weather and tress have fallen down). Once through the woodland area you reach the main road. Follow the road around to the left, as you reach the far side take the left turn. Follow the road all the way back to the starting point of the walk in the car park.

Got the OS Map App? Follow the route by clicking the link below.

Where to eat and drink after walking Errwood Reservoir

There isn’t anything in the immediate area to grab something to eat or drink. Buxton is around 5-miles away which would be a good option, however, a 20-minute drive away is The Beehive Inn located in the picturesque village of Combs. With roaring log fires it is the perfect post winter walk location.

Pics in the peaks: more from Errwood Reservoir in Goyt Valley