The Peak District's Hope Valley by Train

Begin your exploration of Britain’s first National Park in the charming village of Edale, the official start of the 270-mile Pennine Way National Trail. Wander through its pretty lanes, enjoy a hearty lunch in a cosy pub, and explore lush green valleys just steps from the station.

Optional climb to the highest point in the Peak District (2,087 ft). See the spectacular Kinder Downfall waterfall and enjoy panoramic views over the moorlands. Refresh afterwards at The Old Nags Head, a 16th-century inn serving local ales and traditional dishes.

Losehill House Hotel & Spa, Hope: Boutique 4-star retreat set within the Peak District National Park. Enjoy spa facilities including an outdoor hot tub overlooking Win Hill, fine dining, and tranquil countryside views.

Bike & Boot Hotel, Hope: A friendly 3-star base ideal for walkers and cyclists. Dog-friendly with complimentary afternoon coffee and cake served daily, plus evening film nights.

Walk two miles along the riverside from Hope to the postcard-perfect village of Castleton – or hop aboard the Stagecoach Peak Sightseer open-top bus (seasonal). Explore the hilltop ruins of Peveril Castle (one of Britain’s earliest Norman forts), delve into the village’s famous show caverns, and browse local shops for jewellery and souvenirs made from the rare Blue John Stone, a rare semi-precious mineral found nowhere else on earth. Enjoy afternoon tea or a traditional lunch before returning to Hope for your next rail connection.

Visit the Derwent Dams, used during WWII for the famous Dambusters training missions. Hire bikes from Derwent Bike Hire or enjoy peaceful waterside walks around Ladybower Reservoir. For spectacular panoramas, hike up to Bamford Edge, one of the Peak District’s most photographed viewpoints.

Yorkshire Bridge Inn, Bamford: Enjoy a traditional pub dinner near Ladybower Reservoir, featuring locally sourced food and ales. Stay overnight at this walking- and cycling-friendly 3-star inn, offering comfortable rooms and warm hospitality in a scenic setting.

The George, Hathersage: Set in the heart of Hathersage, this stylish 3-star boutique hotel combines historic charm with contemporary comfort. Dine in its elegant restaurant or relax by the fire with a drink after a day exploring Stanage Edge and the surrounding moors.

Walk up to Stanage Edge, one of England’s most impressive gritstone ridges, featured in Pride & Prejudice (2005) - where Elizabeth Bennet (Keira Knightley) dreamed of her Mr Darcy. Visit North Lees Hall, said to be the inspiration for Thornfield Hall in Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë. See Little John’s grave, the legendary companion of Robin Hood, in St Michael’s churchyard.

Discover Padley Gorge, a magical woodland of tumbling waterfalls and mossy boulders. Explore the nearby Longshaw Estate (National Trust) for scenic walks, picnics, and wildlife spotting. A peaceful and picturesque finale to your Peak District adventure.

Option 1: Via Sheffield Grindleford → Sheffield (approx. 30 mins) Sheffield → London St Pancras (approx. 2 hrs 10 mins)

Option 2: Via Manchester Grindleford → Manchester Piccadilly (approx. 1 hr 10 mins) Manchester → London Euston (approx. 2 hrs 10 mins)

To explore more about EMR and the routes visit their website or get the app on Apple or Android: https://www.eastmidlandsrailway.co.uk/

To explore more about Northern Rail and the routes visit their website or get the app on Apple or Android: https://www.northernrailway.co.uk/