The Steeple Grange Light Railway - Image 1

The Steeple Grange Light Railway

Wirksworth, United Kingdom•4.6(116)•Heritage Site, Museum

Ride a unique 25-minute heritage railway through dramatic limestone cuttings on Wirksworth's volunteer-operated 18-inch gauge light railway.

Steeple Grange Light Railway is a volunteer-operated heritage railway near Wirksworth in Derbyshire, built on the historic trackbed of the Killer's Branch of the old Cromford and High Peak Railway. This unique attraction offers visitors an authentic railway experience aboard vintage trains powered by ex-industrial diesel, petrol, and battery-electric locomotives, with passengers traveling in restored manriders—the same vehicles once used to transport miners underground. Visitors can enjoy a scenic 25-minute round-trip train ride up the main line to Middleton, passing through dramatic limestone cuttings that showcase the area's geological heritage. A shorter branch line trip into Steeplehouse Quarry provides an additional route of exploration. On most operating days, knowledgeable volunteers are on hand to share insights about the local railway history and point out fossils visible in the surrounding landscape. This attraction is ideal for families interested in railway heritage, industrial history, and unique experiences. The combination of heritage rides, educational volunteer interactions, and stunning natural scenery makes it a compelling destination for visitors of all ages seeking something different from typical family outings.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 11:00 – 16:00
Friday: Closed
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: 11:00 – 16:00

Venue Details

Venue Type

Outdoor

Typical visit duration

1-3 hours

Booking

Walk-in

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

Google Reviews

4.6(116 reviews)
J
Jody Bunting

Jody Bunting

11 months ago

Lovely little steam railway that goes up the local hill through the forest. The team running it are so helpful and friendly and were more than happy for my step father in a wheelchair to hang around while myself and mum enjoy a ride in the mini train. They also have a little shop and toilets in the station which was handy. there is no real car park for the public, however there is the large black rocks car park a short walk away. This railway is located just off the high peak trail so its nice to enjoy when you are out for a walk.

A
Andrew Lickley

Andrew Lickley

a year ago

First visit after seeing the signs at Black Rock. Run by volunteers is a supper narrow gauge quarry railway pulled by a couple of diesel locos. Some parking on the site but when busy you can park at the Black Rock carpark and follow the disused railway to Steeple Grange, about a 10 min walk. There were two rides, one along its main line and the other to one of the quarry's. At the quarry there was a super little talk about it and where the stone was used. There's a small shop in the ticket office which also sold drinks and simple snacks - cash or card which was very useful. All the staff were brilliant, happy to chat, helpful and very knowledgeable which really added to the visit.they run mainly Sundays in the summer but do check the website prior to travelling. We found it was only a 5 min drive from Cromford Canal and Mills so could be a great combination visit. Site is dog friendly and they can be accommodated on the train. We will definitely pay many more visits. Adult ticket £6.00 ( sep 2024).

S
S AM

S AM

2 years ago

What a great little industrial railway and a really friendly welcoming group of volunteers with endless knowledge on the local area they even insisted i brought my motorcycle in the yard so it was safer. Well worth stopping by and a very fair entrance fee, glad to have finally seen the railway in action after passing it many times while on the High Peak Trail.

C
Cath Fielding

Cath Fielding

3 years ago

A lovely little railway. Each ticket gets you 2 train rides. The first and longer ride goes from the train shed to Middleton and back along a line running through a tree lined cutting. On this journey, we had a young lad as guard on the train named Benjamin, who really knew his stuff. Gave us a great chat about the railway and its history. Very interesting. All the staff/volunteers were very friendly and funny and made the visit great. The second ride was much shorter and just went into the nearby quarry. There was a geologist who told us about about the rocks and fossils found in the quarry which was very interesting.

H
Hayles Conway

Hayles Conway

3 years ago

Absolutely lovely. Volunteers cheery, helpful happy & knowledgeable. Benjamin was a very happy young man who had lots of information. Highly recommend

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026

Events at The Steeple Grange Light Railway

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 7 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about The Steeple Grange Light Railway

Is The Steeple Grange Light Railway free to visit?

The Steeple Grange Light Railway is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

Is The Steeple Grange Light Railway dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at The Steeple Grange Light Railway.

Is there parking at The Steeple Grange Light Railway?

Yes — The Steeple Grange Light Railway has on-site parking, plus additional parking nearby.

Is there food at The Steeple Grange Light Railway?

Yes, food is available on site at The Steeple Grange Light Railway.

Is The Steeple Grange Light Railway pushchair-friendly?

The Steeple Grange Light Railway isn't the easiest for pushchairs, prams or buggies — stairs or uneven terrain may make a baby carrier a better option.

How long should we plan to spend at The Steeple Grange Light Railway?

Plan 1–3 hours for a visit to The Steeple Grange Light Railway.

How do I get to The Steeple Grange Light Railway by public transport?

The Steeple Grange Light Railway isn't on a major public transport route — driving is recommended.
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