Come and enjoy a nostalgic journey to a time long forgotten, when rail travel was the height of sophistication. Board your train in the heart of the Churnet Valley at Froghall, where the railway sits above the river surrounded by the wooded hills. You then set off, passing the industrial remains of Thomas Boltons Copperworks into the wooded valley as you interweave with both canal and river, passing the idylic hamlet of Consall before arriving at Cheddleton with its Grade II Listed station builidng standing proud on the valley floor.
After leaving Cheddleton you will reach Cheddleton Tunnel, which upon bursting out of you then pass Leek Brook Junction with its original signal box and waiting room before you then tackle one of the steepest gradients on any railway in the UK to Ipstones. The scenerey changes as you climb higher, going from the steep sided valley into open Moorland with views for miles around from your seat. If the sound of your train working hard doesn't mesmorise you, then the scenery certainly will and all from the conmfort of your own seat.
Where is Churnet Valley Railway located?
Froghall Station is at the the floor of the valley. Located 5 minutes from Froghall whalf the perfect place to start any walk as the canal and railway cross paths on plenty of occasions for some photography. On the entreance to the station you will see the Railway Inn Pub with local ales and plenty of atmosphere. 15 minutes away you will find Leek, a market town with local items on sale twice a week.
Details on what activities are available at Churnet Valley Railway?
Ride the train through the Staffordshire Moorlands to Ipstones and back lasting 1:30 taking you over 22 miles of scenic heritage railway. Looking for something different then why not drive a train? With options from a little run along the valley floor to your own private railway for a day the choice is yours. You could top of you tour of the Moorlands and enjoy a cooked meal with Steam Train Dining, this exclusive Lunch Train offers lite bites and cream teas to 4 course meals. All cooked on the train to order and served as you make your way to Ipstones.
Things to do in the local area?
The canal offers a fantastic walk with the railway stations at stops along the way. The manifold valley is a short car journey away with a bike hire centre open throughout the year you can hire a bike and enjoy an afternoon in the hills of the Moorlands. Leek Town is 15 minutes away offering hertiage and culture as you stroll the markets and enjoy the local deli's.
