Waterfalls around Lyme Handley are found in a region known for its natural features and historical industrial connections. The area encompasses river valleys and cloughs, where streams contribute to the formation of various waterfalls. These sites offer diverse natural landscapes and opportunities for outdoor exploration. The waterfalls often reflect the region's past, with some showing signs of historical use.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
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This isn’t a towering drop (about 2–3 meters high, with mossy steps), but it’s part of the classic Goyt Valley scenery, surrounded by ancient quarries and views of Errwood’s deep waters (up to 35m in places). It’s often encountered en route to Goytsclough Quarry, an old lime works turned nature spot.
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This highlight is positioned at a viewing point for the waterfall. If you wish to actually stand next to the waterfall you would need to head down to the river, carefully cross the river and then carefully make your way along the river bank to the waterfall. When I did this we hadn't had much rainfall and so the water levels were very low. So, this access may vary depending on the water level of the river at any given time.
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The streams in Deep Clough, Goyt's Clough and Berry Clough all flow into the River Goyt which then fills Errwood Reservoir. The streams are lively after rainfall and there are some good waterfalls to be found in the steep sided valleys.
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This is a small but impressive waterfall on the River Dean. It is in a beautiful setting at the lower end of Clough Pool. It has a certain amount of man-made influence, as the top of it appears to be built on to a natural waterfall to create the mill pond above it. It was used by Ingersley Clough Mill back in the nineteenth century. This is simply a delightful scenic spot.
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A little gem hidden behind the main street in Hayfield lies the cascading River Sett waterfall meandering its way through to New Mills before merging with the River Goyt. Best viewed from Hayfield Memorial garden located between the terraced houses of the main street.
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The Park itself first of all started off as part of the “Andrews” estate originating in the 1820’s. At the time it incorporated a mine, a cotton mill and the lake. Later on in 1968 it became one of England’s first country parks, and now attracts over a quarter million visitors a year. They come to enjoy the natural beauty of ancient woodland along the river valley; in the foothills of the Peak District National Park. Mr George Andrew originally built the mill and made the man made lake (Canal). He also required a large workforce for the operation of the mill; so George also built a lot of the houses, along with the Church and School. Also a lot of the street names are named after members of the Andrew’s family. Etherow Country Park has steadily grown over the years, and now covers an area of around 200 acres. It lies at the heart of the Etherow-Goyt Valley, this is also the start of The Goyt Way, which is a 10 mile walk to Whaley Bridge. The River Etherow flows through the park which is the source for the lakes and was originally used as a reservoir to power the water wheel; which in turn provided motorized power for the cotton mill. Later on, they used the canal to transport coal for heating and keeping the cotton dry, via a horse drawn canal barge from further downstream. One of the water wheels (Big Lily) that powered the mill would use 50 million gallons of water per day; which would come down the canal and pass through what is now the car park to drive “Big Lilly”
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The Park itself first of all started off as part of the “Andrews” estate originating in the 1820’s. At the time it incorporated a mine, a cotton mill and the lake. Later on in 1968 it became one of England’s first country parks, and now attracts over a quarter million visitors a year. They come to enjoy the natural beauty of ancient woodland along the river valley; in the foothills of the Peak District National Park. Mr George Andrew originally built the mill and made the man made lake (Canal). He also required a large workforce for the operation of the mill; so George also built a lot of the houses, along with the Church and School. Also a lot of the street names are named after members of the Andrew’s family. Etherow Country Park has steadily grown over the years, and now covers an area of around 200 acres. It lies at the heart of the Etherow-Goyt Valley, this is also the start of The Goyt Way, which is a 10 mile walk to Whaley Bridge. The River Etherow flows through the park which is the source for the lakes and was originally used as a reservoir to power the water wheel; which in turn provided motorized power for the cotton mill. Later on, they used the canal to transport coal for heating and keeping the cotton dry, via a horse drawn canal barge from further downstream.
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Among the most appreciated waterfalls in the area are Ingersley Vale Waterfall (Waulkmill Waterfall), known for its impressive flow on the River Dean and historical connection to Ingersley Clough Mill. Also popular are Weir Waterfall, Etherow Country Park and Etherow Country Park Lake and Weir, both located within the family-friendly Etherow Country Park, which is one of the UK's first country parks.
Yes, Weir Waterfall, Etherow Country Park and Etherow Country Park Lake and Weir are excellent choices for families. Etherow Country Park offers easy strolls, a range of habitats, and is rich in wildlife, making it a pleasant outing for all ages.
The region around Lyme Handley's waterfalls is characterized by diverse natural landscapes. You'll find river valleys, cloughs, and woodlands. For instance, Etherow Country Park, home to the Etherow Country Park Lake and Weir, is a local nature reserve with open water, reed swamps, and mixed deciduous woodland. In areas like Deep Clough, you'll encounter steep-sided valleys with lively streams that become particularly vigorous after rainfall.
Yes, several waterfalls have historical connections. Ingersley Vale Waterfall (Waulkmill Waterfall), for example, has a man-made influence where its top was built upon a natural formation to create a mill pond for the 19th-century Ingersley Clough Mill. Etherow Country Park, featuring the Etherow Country Park Lake and Weir, originated as the Andrews Estate in the 1820s, which included a mine, a mill, and a mill pond, with waterways built to power the mill.
The area offers various outdoor activities. You can explore gravel biking routes like the 'Peak Forest Canal – Hayfield Village loop' or 'Sett Valley Trail – Sett Valley Cafe loop'. For general cycling, options include the 'Bollington Village – Middlewood Way loop'. Road cycling enthusiasts can find routes such as 'Whaley Bridge Town Centre – Mam Nick descent loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the gravel biking, cycling, and road cycling guides for Lyme Handley.
For a more secluded experience, consider Deep Clough Waterfall. Located within the steep-sided valleys of Deep Clough, Goyt's Clough, and Berry Clough, these areas feature lively streams that form notable waterfalls, especially after rainfall. Another hidden gem is Waterfall Wood Waterfall on the edge of Alderley Edge, offering a picturesque forest vista.
The waterfalls around Lyme Handley are particularly impressive after rainfall, as the streams become more vigorous, enhancing their flow. This is especially true for waterfalls like Deep Clough Waterfall and Cumberland Clough Waterfall, which might only be a trickle during drier periods. Visiting during wetter seasons or shortly after rain will offer the most dramatic views.
While many trails are accessible, some areas offer more challenging terrain. For instance, reaching the base of Deep Clough Waterfall requires carefully heading down to and potentially crossing the river, which can vary in difficulty depending on water levels. The surrounding cloughs themselves present steep-sided valleys, offering a more rugged experience.
Visitors appreciate the blend of natural beauty and tranquility. The scenic settings, like that of Ingersley Vale Waterfall, are often highlighted. The historical context, such as the industrial heritage seen at Ingersley Clough Mill or Etherow Country Park, also adds to the appeal. Many enjoy the refreshing experience of leisurely walks and the opportunity to observe local wildlife.
Yes, Weir Waterfall, Etherow Country Park and Etherow Country Park Lake and Weir are both situated within Etherow Country Park. This park is a local nature reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest, offering a wide range of habitats and serving as the starting point for the Goyt Way, a 10-mile route along the Goyt Valley.
Yes, the waterfalls within Etherow Country Park, such as Weir Waterfall, are known for being part of an easy stroll around the country park. This makes them ideal for visitors looking for a relaxed walk rather than a strenuous hike.


Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Lyme Handley: