High Peak Trail
Follow the route of the Victorian Cromford and High Peak Railway in the High Peak Trail. Measuring 17.5 miles in distance and less than half an hour from the Littleover Lodge, this trail starting at the High Peak Junction takes you through some of the best countryside that Derbyshire has to offer.
What to Do Whilst You’re There?
As a traffic-free trail, the High Peak Trail is suitable for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. Along the route, you can find plenty of photo opportunities and interesting landmarks that transport you back in time. From High Peak Junction Workshops and Middleton Top Engine House to Hopton Tunnel and Hopton Incline, there is plenty to look out for. Middleton Top Engine House in particular boasts plenty to do once you get there. With a visitor centre, gift shop, cycle hire centre, car park and picnic space, many people opt to start and/or finish their journey here. You can also fill up on snacks and drinks here too, to fuel the rest of your journey.
As well as the majestic scenery and historic architecture, you will also encounter a variety of wildlife on your trail. Particularly in the Summer, you stand a great chance of getting some stunning views rich in flowers such as cowslips, wild herbs and orchids. If you feel like extending your adventure, you can also carry onto the very popular Tissington Trail which the High Peak Trail joins at Parsley Hay Bike Hire.
Where Can I Hire Bikes?
If you’re looking for local bike hire, we would recommend hiring from either Middleton Top Cycle Hire or Parsley Hay Bike Hire. Both cycle hire shops have a car park available along with refreshments and seated areas for eating.
Food and Drink
Whether you choose to start the High Peak Trail at Middleton Top Engine House or Parsley Hay Bike Hire, there are plenty of stops available to fuel up. With both hire shops also selling ice cream in the sun or hot food and a hot chocolate in the cold, there are plenty of places for a pitstop.
Once you’ve finished the trail, you can then come and put your feet up at the Littleover Lodge and look forward to a meal at the best gastropub in Derbyshire. You can take a look at our menus here, from our takeaway service to our gastro and stone based pizza selections.
Where to Find It?
High Peak Trail: The trail can be accessed from High Peak Junction, Cromford Wharf, Black Rocks and Middleton Top.
Middleton Top Countryside Centre
Address: Rise End, Middleton by Wiksworth, DE4 4LS
Work Telephone: 01629 533298
Email: countrysideservice@derbyshire.gov.uk
Parsley Hay Bike Hire
Address: Parsley Hay, near Buxton, Derbyshire, SK17 ODG
Telephone: 01298 84493
Email: parsleyhay.cyclehire@peakdistrict.gov.uk