Campaign for Rail Link Between Peak District Beauty Spots

Visitors to Wheeldon Trees could soon be using a new rail link in the Peak District as a campaign gets underway to link tourist beauty spots.

The potential new development could transform how you explore the Peak District.

The Buxton Town Team is proposing a fantastic initiative: an electric rail service running on a disused freight track from Buxton to the popular Monsal Trail.

Eco-friendly project

This eco-friendly project would offer a convenient and scenic way to access the beautiful Monsal Trail, a haven for walkers and cyclists. Imagine a relaxing journey on an electric carriage, followed by a refreshing stroll or cycle surrounded by stunning Peak District scenery.

But before these plans can take shape, a feasibility study is needed. This will assess the viability of the project, including costs and logistics. While the anticipated cost of the study is over £100,000, it’s a crucial step towards making this vision a reality.

Benefits

The Buxton Town Team is passionate about the potential benefits. As Andy Parker explains, “It is so positive from so many points of view. Environmentally, this is the way forward. We want to get people out of cars and get them walking and cycling (on these trails).”

The initial focus would be on connecting Buxton to the Monsal Trail, which stretches from Bakewell to Blackwell Mill near Topley Pike Quarry.  The team has already sought advice from Network Rail to ensure the smooth operation of the electric vehicles.

While fundraising for the feasibility study presents a challenge, Tina Heathcote from the Buxton Town Team believes it’s a worthwhile investment.  Mrs Heathcote said her group had surveyed Buxton residents a few years ago and about three-quarters of those who took part said they wanted easier ways of getting out into the countryside from the town.

Local resident Hannah Bills, a regular walker on the Tissington Trail with her dogs, echoes this sentiment. “I think it would be really handy given there are a lot of people who would like to walk here who don’t have the opportunity because they don’t have a car, and it is pretty treacherous to try and walk here on foot.”

Wheeldon Trees Cottages wholeheartedly supports this initiative. Easier access to the Peak District’s natural beauty aligns perfectly with our philosophy of offering a relaxing escape in a stunning location. We’ll be following developments closely and keeping you updated.

Experience Peak District at Wheeldon Trees Cottages

Wheeldon Trees is your ideal escape for an unforgettable cottage holiday in 2024. Nestled amidst 12 acres of the Peak District, we offer 10 stunning cottages. Each is designed to provide maximum comfort and relaxation. We also cater to your convenience with EV charging, an honesty shop, and a fantastic games room featuring pool, air hockey, and ping pong. Explore the local area at your own pace with our complimentary electric bikes (including two new hybrid options) or simply unwind and take in the breathtaking views from Sheldon Cottage, our accessible property with the best views in the house.

Seeking luxury? Look no further than our flagship Farmhouse, which underwent a complete refurbishment in 2022, or any of our recently upgraded cottages, including Nadin, Ollerenshaw, Priestley, and Mycock.

Travelling with furry companions? We welcome your canine friends in our three dog-friendly cottages: Critchlow, Lomas, and Ollerenshaw.

Wheeldon Trees is consistently recognised for its exceptional hospitality. TripAdvisor recently named Wheeldon Trees in the top 10% of places to stay in the world. Thanks to our visitors’ amazing reviews, we recently received the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 2023 for the second year running.