Accessible walk/wheel along the Manifold Valley
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This review is especially helpful for those who have or use the following: Wheelchair, Mobility Scooter
Overview
Excellent trail for wheelchair users, this is an out and back route with a nice tearoom with an accessible loo at the turning point. It's a decent length - probably an hour plus each way. Though a little bumpy in a few short sections (really not too bumpy at all), the track is well surfaced. There are no inclines. We started at Weags Bridge and went to Wetton Mill. You could reverse if preferred (nb there are no facilities at Weags Bridge).
Transport & Parking
You need your own transport as its a bit remote. There's a car park at Weags Bridge, nearest village is Grindon. You'll need a map reader or satnav to find it. There's a small car park, which will get crowded in summer weekend periods. No disabled spaces. However we had no problems. The surface is Tarmac but not completely smoothe. However I didn't find it an issue. If you start at Wetton Mill tearoom instead, there is limited parking there - but since this is by the tearoom, I presume that's for customers?
Access
The trail follow the route of the former light railway so no inclines. It's well surfaced. The access the trail, pick it up through the gate at the end of the car park that's furthest from the road. The trail meanders through the valley. There are a couple of bumpy sections where tree roots have wrinkled the Tarmac but they were short lived and minor. At the end of the track it's onto a minor road - follow it over the bridge and you'll see the tearoom on your right (over another small humpback bridge). Depending which day of the week it is, there's little traffic but keep your eyes peeled as there's no pavement. This is a popular route for cycles so, especially at weekends, watch out for bikes along the whole trail. The surface in the tearoom seating area (we were outside as we have a dog) was a bit rough with loose chipping so. Sadly all the seating was picnic benches so difficult get a wheelchair close. This walk features in the Peak District miles without stiles book.
Toilets
Accessible loo at Wetton Mill tearoom. It was spacious and reasonably well kitted out (though I seem recall the loo was quite low). Bit of a lip to wheel over to access the loo block. Not radar key operated. No facilities at Weags Bridge.
Staff
N/a
Anything else you wish to tell us?
Thors cave is above the trail about half way along. Not accessible but able bodied companions might like to make the ten minutes detour to see it.
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