From Grindon to Thor's Cave
Recommended by
Our view
"Follow a fascinating limestone trail to visit the film location of Bram Stoker's last nightmare."
Walk directions
From the car park turn left then head downhill past the play area. Immediately past The Cottage fork left on to a track and go through a squeeze stile. Cross a field and head downhill, keeping to the right of two diverging paths. Cross a bridge, go through a gate and head downhill, with the stream and the wood on your right.
At the wall at the far end go through a gap stile on your right, continuing downhill into National Trust land at Ladyside. A narrow path runs by a fence into woodland. At a gate fork right and down a field edge then back into scrubbier woodland, descending steeply to a stile by the Manifold Way.
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Additional information
Terrain
- Field paths some narrow and muddy, hard trail, limestone - may be slippery; several stiles
Landscape
- Hillside, valley, meadows and woodland
Dog friendliness
- Keep on short lead near livestock and on Manifold Track to prevent tripping other users; under close control at all other times
Parking
- At Grindon church
Toilets en route
- None on route
About the walk
Set within the Manifold Valley, whose river rises within a mile of the Dove on Axe Edge, Thor’s Cave may be recognisable to you if you’ve seen Ken Russell’s horror film The Lair of the White Worm (1988). The opening shot of the film features the famous landmark, and you may, as a result, feel...
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Walking in Safety
Read our tips to look after yourself and the environment when following this walk.
Get an AA guide
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Been on this walk?
Send us photos or a comment about this route. Or recommend a route of your own.
Walking in Safety
Read our tips to look after yourself and the environment when following this walk.
Get an AA guide
Explore our range of ‘50 Walks in’ guides - they’re the ideal companion for a ramble.
About the area
Staffordshire features lofty moors, deep dales and tremendous views of both. Further south are the six sprawling towns that make up Stoke-on-Trent, which historically have had such an impact on Staffordshire’s fortunes, not to mention its culture and countryside.
Nearby places to stay
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Nearby places to stay
The Black Lion Inn
The Black Lion is an historic gem of a pub in the heart of the village on the edge of the Peak District. It offers a blend of historic character and modern comfort. The three en suite r...
Old Byre at Swainsley Farm
Awaiting description...
Swainsley Farm
Escape the hustle and bustle of modern life at Swainsley Farm. Relax in understated luxury at this idyllic hideaway well off the beaten track. It's a spectacular location with stunning ...
Coach House at Swainsley Farm
Awaiting description...
Haybarn at Swainsley Farm
Awaiting description...
Stanshope Hall
Stanshope Hall is close to Dovedale National Nature Reserve and the Manifold Valley, so it enjoys some lovely views of the Peak District National Park. The accommodation is comfortable ...
Dovedale Cottages at Church Farm
Dovedale Cottages are two self-catering properties nestling in the grounds of an organic farm in a tranquil Peak District setting. Church Farm Cottage is full of character and charm wit...
Church Farm Cottage
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Places to eat nearby View all
