A major new recreational route has been launched in northern England. The Steel Cotton Rail Trail is a 62-mile (100km) path that connects the cities of Manchester and Sheffield, winding through the scenic, post-industrial heart of the Peak District.

The trail has been strategically divided into 14 day-friendly sections. This design, which has been several years in the planning, makes the long-distance route accessible to everyone, not just hardcore hikers. Each section is a manageable length for a day’s outing.

The key to its accessibility is the rail network. Every one of the 14 sections starts and ends at a railway station, primarily those on the Hope Valley Line. This allows walkers and cyclists to explore the trail in easy-to-plan, car-free stages.

The route offers a rich variety of landscapes and experiences. It includes “metropolitan mooches” for urban explorers, challenging hill and moor sections for “summit fiends,” and gentle, level walks along canals and rivers for families.

This new, fully waymarked trail is a fantastic way to discover the “eye-calming” landscapes and deep industrial heritage of the region. It’s a welcome addition, inviting people to explore the lesser-known gems between two major cities.