A new 62-mile (100km) walking trail between Manchester and Sheffield is now open, and here’s how to explore it. The Steel Cotton Rail Trail is a 14-section route through the Peak District, designed for maximum accessibility and variety.
First, access is simple. The entire trail is “rail-pegged,” meaning all 14 day-friendly sections start and end at train stations, primarily on the Hope Valley Line. This makes it ideal for car-free travel and point-to-point day hikes. Alternative stations, like Furness Vale on the Manchester-Buxton line, are also close to the path.
Second, choose your walk. The trail offers something for everyone. Options range from challenging moorland and hill sections to easy, level canal and riverside walks. There are even “metropolitan mooches” at the city ends. You can tailor your day to your fitness level and interests.
Third, navigation is covered. The route is now fully waymarked with stickers. For planning, the official website provides printable PDF maps for each section, as well as GPX files for those who prefer using a smartphone or GPS device.
Fourth, know what you’ll see. This is a post-industrial heritage trail. Expect a mix of “work and wilderness,” including the 1796 Peak Forest Tramway, the historic Bugsworth Basin, the dramatic viaducts of New Mills, and nature reserves reclaimed from former industrial sites.
This new trail is a fantastic way to explore the hidden gems and rich history of the Peak District. It’s perfect for an autumn walk and links up with other routes like the GM Ringway, making it a key part of the North’s walking network.
