As the Peak District countryside starts to ooze tones of green, gold and brown, it’s a great time to lace up your walking boots and discover new places by train.
Buxton woodlands
Though famous for its Georgian architecture in the town centre, Buxton is a fantastic place for woodland walks. The town is surrounded by over 200 acres of woodlands cared for by Buxton Civic Association, who have lots of information about walking on their website: Woodlands – Buxton Civic Association
The closest woods to the railway station are Corbar and Hogshaw.
Peak Forest canal
The canal is 15 miles long and takes in beautiful scenery and quirky towns and villages to explore. You can easily access it from New Mills Central, Furness Vale, and Whaley Bridge stations. At the end of the canal you’ll find picturesque Bugsworth Canal Basin, looked after by the Canal and Rivers Trust and steeped in industrial history. Find out more: Peak Forest Canal Canal & River Trust.
A stroll along the canal makes a perfect station-to-station walk. Those looking for a longer walk could include the canal in a walk from New Mills Central, Chinley or Disley station.
Gritstone Trail from Disley
Starting the trail from Disley station couldn’t be easier. Simply look for the signpost as you exit the station from Platform 2 and start a short section of this 35 mile trail. The trail will take you to Lyme Park in about 30-40 minutes. Walkers looking for a longer-distance hike will love the scenery en route to Bollington and Macclesfield. Discover the trail: Gritstone Trail (cheshireeast.gov.uk)
Thornhill Trail from Bamford
Visit Ladybower Reservoir and explore the area’s industrial heritage and iconic scenery. The trail takes in views of Bamford Edge, Ladybower Reservoir and the River Derwent, and the trail itself is part of a former rail route used to transport building materials to create the Dams themselves. From Bamford station, you can pick up this level, well surfaced path. Let’s Go Peak District have an excellent walking route guide on their website: Beautiful Bamford Walk via Ladybower Reservoir (4.6 miles)
What are your favourite car-free walks in High Peak and Hope Valley?
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For more walking inspiration, head to Walking – Visit the Peak District by train
