Steel Cotton Rail Trail: Hyde Central to Guide Bridge | 3.5 Miles
This 3.5-mile stretch of the Steel Cotton Rail Trail links Hyde Central with Guide Bridge, following quiet canal paths and weaving in plenty of history along the way. It’s a shorter section, so perfect if you want an easy morning or afternoon walk without missing out on characterful spots.
This post came about after a lovely invite from the High Peak and Hope Valley Community Rail Partnership, who asked me to help spread the word about their new walking trail. I wasn’t paid to do this – I just thought it was a great idea worth sharing.
Walk Highlights
Portland Basin Museum
A fascinating canalside museum where you can learn about local industry, heritage, and waterways.
Peak Forest Canal
Peaceful towpaths lined with narrowboats and wildlife, giving this section a calm and scenic feel.
Junction Mill Chimney
A striking reminder of the area’s industrial past, and a great landmark on the route.
Steel Cotton Rail Trail: Hyde Central to Guide Bridge
Walk Details: Hyde Central to Guide Bridge Walk Leaflet
Walk Map (Opens in OS Maps): Steel Cotton Rail Trail: Hyde Central to Guide Bridge Hike
Parking: Hyde Central Station, Great Norbury Street, Hyde, Cheshire, SK14 1AA (W3W:///older.tunes.hogs).
Dogs: Allowed, but must be on a short lead during nesting season and around livestock.
Facilities: Public toilets at Marple Train Station
Walk Time: 1-2 hours
Difficulty: ▲
Distance: 3.5 miles (5.6km)
Elevation: 50ft (15m)
Trig Points Bagged: None
Peak District Peaks Bagged: None
Peak District Ethels Bagged: None
Check out the full trail at Steel Cotton Rail Trail
