New Mills is not, of course, the centre of the Universe. It is not a thriving metropolis like Paris, London or New York. However, it can be argued that it is probably is one of the best places to live in the world with its central position, understated historical significance and sense of community spirit.

Geographically it lies 15 miles from Manchester and 20 from Sheffield, and are connected to both by two train lines located at either end can’t he town. You can be on the M6 or M56 motorways in 1/2hr. We also have a bus service which runs into the early hours to Manchester Airport which is under 1hr away.

The town is located on the confluence of two Rivers, the Sett and the Goyt, whose confluence forms a large gorge beneath the actual town, know as New Mills Torrs. We are on the boundary the Peak District National Park and walking distance from the huge upland plateau of Kinder Scout. Whilst being in the countryside the residents of New Mills have access to large metropolises for work/entertainment whilst being able to walk out of the town and be on a moorland in minutes. On the edge of town you can look across New Mills completely and see Manchester but also the Peak District in the other direction.

Geologically The Torrs forms an impressive feature of a vertical sandstone gorge complemented by the huge viaduct which carries the road and rail connections across this fissure. You can walk, cycle, or run across the town and completely avoiding cars. Winding stone staircases periodically lead up into key areas.

Historically the industrial revolution saw the development of the cotton and paper mill industry. Here the central location, two fast flowing rivers converging and an abundance of local coal resulted in the towns birth. Today an Archimedes screw on the River Goyt uses the same water power that once powered Torr Vale Mill (a former cotton mill which is still standing on the opposite bank) and is the first community owned hydroelectric power scheme. The local COOP perched high above is powered by ‘Archie’.