A new walking route in the Peak District is a dream come true for anyone who loves to explore by train. The 62-mile Steel Cotton Rail Trail has been meticulously designed around the rail network, with its 14 day-length sections all starting and ending at stations.
This “rail-pegged” path, linking Manchester and Sheffield, uses stops along the Hope Valley Line as its anchor points. This allows for simple, point-to-point day walks. Walkers can alight at one village, like Chinley, and walk to the next station, like Strines, to catch an hourly train home.
This convenience opens up a part of the Peak District often overlooked. The trail guides walkers through a charming “post-industrial” landscape, full of history and natural beauty. It’s a region of green valleys, old tramways, and historic canal ports.
The trail itself is wonderfully varied. It offers challenging climbs for serious hikers, but also plenty of flat, easy sections along rivers and canals. The route is now fully waymarked and supported by free online maps, making it easy to navigate.
For sustainable, car-free travel, this new trail is a model of excellence. It’s a fantastic way to escape the city and discover the heritage and “eye-calming” scenery of the Peak District, all with the convenience of the train.
