History of the Route

This line was built for what was to become the Midland Railway’s route into Manchester from London, via Derby. Leaving the St Pancras to Sheffield mainline at Ambergate, it initially ran to Rowsley, opening in 1849.

The line to Buxton opened in 1863 and was essentially a branch, leaving the main line at Millers Dale.

A later extension, opened in 1867, saw it through to Manchester.

Some earlier footage of the line, from the 1930s is now part of the Huntley Film Archive who have given us permission to share the link to this film here.

David Frankal has created this video that explains the history of thr route between Buxton and Matlock, he has also kindly given us permission to show it here.

Map of the Route

Here you can explore the railway from the mainline junction at Ambergate through to Buxton. Click a section or location for more details about that area.