New Mills, a picturesque town on the edge of the Peak District, has been hailed as an ideal destination for a sunny day trip, thanks to its selection of pubs, coffee shops, and natural beauty spots. Located near Stockport's south-east side, the town is easily accessible and offers a variety of attractions.
Historic Mill Pub with Riverside Terrace
The Grade II-listed Torr Vale Mill, a former cotton mill, now houses a food hall and taproom. Its standout feature is the Torr Vale Tap pub, restaurant, and café, which boasts an outdoor terrace with stunning views over the River Goyt. The mill is known for its barrel-vaulted ceilings, cast iron columns, and exposed stone walls, and Hope Valley ice creams are a popular summer treat.
Walking Trails and Scenic Spots
New Mills is popular with hikers for trails like the Sett Valley Trail, which links to Hayfield via a former railway line. The Millennium Walkway, described as a “steel spider’s web,” takes walkers through the hidden Torrs Riverside Park, elevated on stilts above the River Goyt and integrated into a vertical stone railway embankment.
Award-Winning Restaurant
The town is home to A Tavolo restaurant on Albion Road, recently named the UK’s Best Pasta Restaurant at the prestigious Italian Awards 2026. The Good Food Guide has also praised the Sicilian-inspired eatery, led by award-winning chef Alessio Muccio. A signature dish is the Sfincione, a focaccia-style bread baked with anchovy, tomato, and onion sauce, topped with cheese and herbs, originating from street food stalls in Palermo's ancient markets.
Cultural and Community Spaces
New Mills has a thriving music and arts scene, with venues like Spring Bank Arts community space, New Mills Art Theatre, and the Rock Mill Centre. The latter hosts guided walking tours, a heritage trail, and a café serving its own 'Rock Mill Roast' coffee blend by Peak Bean.
Access and Transport
The town is easily reachable by bus from Stockport town centre, with a £2 one-way ticket on Bee Network services to Hayfield. Two railway lines connect New Mills to Manchester in just over 30 minutes, with direct trains from New Mills Newtown station to Disley and Buxton.
History and Industry
Historically a coal mining and cotton spinning town, New Mills is now home to confectionery brand Swizzels, which took over a disused mill in 1940 and produces around 1.75 billion Love Hearts sweets annually.
