Discover the Peak Forest Tramway on New Heritage Path

History enthusiasts have a new trail to explore in the Peak District. The Steel Cotton Rail Trail, a 62-mile route between Sheffield and Manchester, incorporates a significant section of the historic Peak Forest Tramway Trail, offering a walk back in time.
The tramway, which first opened in 1796, was a marvel of its time. It was serviced by horse and gravity-powered vehicles and remained operational right up to the 1920s. Its main purpose was to transport limestone from the area’s many quarries, a material crucial for building and manufacturing.
This section of the trail is a level and easy walk, perfect for families and casual walkers. As you stroll, you can imagine the bustling activity of this former industrial artery. The trail is well-marked and provides a gentle introduction to the region’s rich heritage, with the crunch of acorns and beech nuts underfoot.
This historic tramway is just one part of the larger 14-section trail. The full route is linked by railway stations, allowing walkers to easily explore other historical sites like Bugsworth Basin, the UK’s only intact inland port, and the magnificent viaducts of New Mills.
The new trail is a fantastic way to engage with the past. It highlights how this “post-industrial” area produced so much for the nation, from limestone and coal to textiles, and invites explorers to discover the stories hidden in the landscape.