A Quick Guide to the Hope Valley Line, Manchester - Sheffield
When it opened in 1894, the Hope Valley line was called the Dore & Chinley Railway and became well-known for its outstanding scenery. The line was saved from the 1960’s Beeching Closures and since then has continued to thrive. It’s now known as the Hope Valley Line, bringing visitors direct to the heart of the Peak District National Park and serving communities between Manchester and Sheffield.
Peak District National Park
Between Grindleford and Edale, five stations on the Hope Valley Line are inside the boundary of the Peak District National Park.
The line has provided access to countryside from the days of the Right to Roam movement and protests of the 1920s and 30’s. Hordes of ramblers travelled out on Sundays wanting to claim their right to the fresh air of the hills and to escape the pollution of the smoke-filled cities. The Peak District was the first National Park to be created in 1951, officially enabling access to countryside for all.
Now people travel from all over the world to visit the Peak District, attracted by its exceptional beauty and opportunities for outdoor adventure. The area features some of England’s finest outdoor experiences, many of which are accessible from the Hope Valley Line stations. Edale Station is the setting-off point for the famous Pennine Way.
Beneath the hills
The Hope Valley is reached via two long tunnels at either end. Cowburn is the deepest tunnel in England between Chinley and Edale, as it runs underneath the foothills of Kinder Scout. Between Grindleford and Dore & Totley at the other end of the valley you’ll be plunged into the darkness of Totley tunnel, the second longest tunnel in England.
Either side of the Hope Valley there are also places of interest and natural beauty at New Mills, Chinley and Dore & Totley. Have a look at the stations page to see where you’d like to explore.
- Train times and fares
- Hope Valley line guide leaflet
