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High Peak Trail: Historic Rail Path Through Derbyshire's White Peak

Explore 17.5 miles of historic railway trail through Derbyshire’s stunning White Peak countryside, blending heritage and nature.

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The High Peak Trail is a 17.5-mile traffic-free trail running from High Peak Junction near Cromford to Dowlow near Buxton. Following the route of one of the world's earliest long-distance railways, it offers walkers, cyclists, and horse riders scenic limestone countryside, historic railway features, and accessible, well-maintained paths through the Peak District’s White Peak area.

A brief summary to High Peak Trail

  • Matlock, GB
  • Duration: 1 to 6 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

  • Start your visit at High Peak Junction near Cromford for parking, visitor center, and a café.
  • Consider hiring a bike at Parsley Hay or Middleton Top for easier exploration of the trail.
  • Wear sturdy footwear and bring water, especially if planning to cover long distances.
  • Visit in late spring or summer to enjoy wildflowers like orchids and cowslips along the trail.
  • Combine your walk with the Tissington Trail at Parsley Hay for extended routes and varied scenery.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Drive to High Peak Junction near Cromford, approximately 15-25 minutes from Matlock. Parking is available but may incur charges. The route involves rural roads with some narrow sections.

  • Bus

    Take local bus services from Matlock to Cromford or Middleton Top, with journey times around 20-35 minutes. Services run regularly on weekdays but may be limited on weekends.

  • Train

    Use the train to Cromford station from Matlock, about a 5-minute ride. From Cromford, the trailhead at High Peak Junction is accessible by a short taxi ride or a 2 km walk.

  • Cycling

    Cycle from Matlock to High Peak Junction via quiet country lanes, approximately 8 km and 30-40 minutes depending on pace. The route includes some gentle hills.

High Peak Trail location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
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Discover more about High Peak Trail

Legacy of the Cromford and High Peak Railway

The High Peak Trail traces the route of the former Cromford and High Peak Railway, constructed between 1825 and 1830 as one of the world's first long-distance railway lines. Originally built to transport minerals between the Cromford Canal and the Peak Forest Canal, the railway operated until 1967. The route’s conversion into a trail began in 1971 when the Peak District National Park acquired the land, transforming it into a multi-use path that preserves its industrial heritage.

Scenic Limestone Countryside and Natural Riches

Stretching 17.5 miles through Derbyshire’s White Peak region, the trail winds through rolling limestone hills and verdant dales. The landscape bursts into color in summer with wildflowers such as cowslips and orchids thriving along the trail edges. Notable natural landmarks nearby include Minninglow Hill, home to ancient Neolithic and Bronze Age burial sites, adding a layer of prehistoric intrigue to the journey.

Trail Features and Accessibility

The trail is surfaced with crushed limestone, providing a flat, level, and well-maintained path suitable for walkers, cyclists, horse riders, and wheelchair users. Key access points include High Peak Junction, Parsley Hay, Middleton Top, and Hurdlow, many offering parking, visitor centers, cycle hire, toilets, and picnic areas. The route includes impressive civil engineering feats such as high limestone embankments and the Grade II listed structures near Minninglow.

Connections and Recreational Opportunities

At Parsley Hay, the High Peak Trail links with the 13-mile Tissington Trail, creating extended routes for long-distance cycling or walking. The trail also features historic railway buildings like the Middleton Top Engine House and Hopton Tunnel. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities year-round, including leisurely strolls, cycling adventures, and horse riding, with opportunities to pause at cafes or picnic spots along the way.

Historic and Cultural Significance

Beyond its natural beauty, the trail offers a window into early industrial transport history and rural heritage. Structures and remnants along the path tell stories of 19th-century engineering and the region’s mining past. The trail’s preservation within the Peak District National Park ensures a blend of cultural heritage and environmental conservation.

Visitor Experience and Atmosphere

The High Peak Trail invites visitors to immerse themselves in tranquil countryside vistas and the quiet echoes of its railway past. Its gentle gradients and scenic outlooks make it suitable for all ages and abilities, fostering a relaxed yet engaging outdoor experience. Wildlife, seasonal blooms, and panoramic views enrich the journey, making it a cherished destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

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