From ‘Steel City’: A New Way to Explore the West

For residents of Sheffield, a new 62-mile trail is offering a fresh invitation to explore the “other side” of the Peak District. The Steel Cotton Rail Trail, which links “Steel City” to “Cottonopolis” (Manchester), is designed to tempt Sheffielders “beyond the obvious Edale-Kinder Scout hikes.”
The 14-section route is pegged to the Hope Valley Line, making it incredibly easy for Sheffielders to hop on a train and explore a new area. While Edale is the start of one 7.5-mile leg, the trail’s focus is on the “post-industrial” landscapes to the west.
This “charming and eye-calming” region is full of surprises. Walkers can discover the “dramatic constellation” of bridges and gorges in New Mills, the “canal mania” history of Bugsworth Basin, and the pastoral beauty of the River Goyt.
The trail is designed for all. It has “summit-fiend” sections for serious hikers, but also many gentle, level walks along historic tramways and canals, perfect for families.
This new, well-marked path is a fantastic new resource for Sheffield. It’s an accessible, car-free way to discover the “hidden gems” and “magical moods” of a region that’s just a short train ride away.