The Cromford and High Peak Railway

The Cromford area has much to offer those interested in industrial archeology for it was here at High PeakJunction that the unique railway line began its tortuous route over the limestone peak plateau to Whaley bridge.

After the completion of the Peak Forest Canal in 1800, which had its terminus at Whaley bridge, a number of ambitious but impractical schemes were devised to link it with the Cromford Canal. All were abandoned in favour of a railway, but as it was built by a canal engineer Josiah Jessop, the stations were called "wharfs" and the long level sections were interspersed with sharp inclines (instead of locks), the steepest of which were aided by stationary steam engines. Only the Middleton Top engine survives. It is beautifully restored and is "steamed" on advertised days throughout the summer.

The disused track of this famous railway, some 33 miles long, is now used for walking, riding and cycling, and is known as the High Peak Trail.

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