A new long-distance path charts a historic and scenic course between two of northern England’s industrial powerhouses. The “Steel Cotton Rail Trail” is a 62-mile (100km) route connecting Sheffield (Steel City) to Manchester (Cottonopolis), taking walkers through the heart of the Peak District.
This trail is designed for modern explorers. It’s not one giant trek but 14 manageable day-length sections. Crucially, each section starts and ends at a train station on the Hope Valley Line, making it a perfect choice for those who rely on public transport or prefer point-to-point day hikes.
The variety is the trail’s biggest strength. Within its 62 miles, it packs in challenging summit hikes for the adventurous, level canal-side rambles for families, and interesting urban exploration for history buffs. You can choose a section based on your mood, fitness, or the weather.
The route is steeped in the region’s post-industrial story. Walkers will encounter the legacy of limestone quarrying, follow the path of a 1796 horse-drawn tramway, and discover Bugsworth Basin, a preserved inland port from the “canal mania” era. It’s a landscape where nature and history are visibly intertwined.
Now officially launched and fully waymarked, with PDF maps and GPX files available online, the Steel Cotton Rail Trail is open for adventure. It’s a new way to appreciate the “eye-calming” green valleys and hidden heritage that lie just beyond the city limits.
From Steel City to Cottonopolis: A New 62-Mile Adventure
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