Steel Cotton Rail Trail: Romiley to Hyde Central | 4 Miles
The trail between Romiley and Hyde Central keeps the waterside theme going, following more peaceful canal paths. It’s a shorter section, but full of character – with historic tunnels and plenty of wildlife along the way.
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.
This section of the trail is 4 miles long and features gentle walking along the Peak Forest Canal from Romiley train station to Hyde Central train station.
Walk Highlights
Woodley Tunnel
Woodley Tunnel on the Peak Forest Canal dates back to the early 1800s and stretches 176 yards (160m), making it one of the easier canal tunnels to walk through. With a towpath running its full length and Grade II listed stone portals at each end, it’s a lovely mix of history and waterside charm. You might need a torch to walk through it!
Canal views
The towpath takes you past open stretches of water and quiet corners, perfect for spotting ducks, swans and maybe even a heron.
Steel Cotton Rail Trail: Romiley to Hyde Central
Walk Details: Romiley to Hyde Central Leaflet
Walk Map (Opens in OS Maps): Steel Cotton Rail Trail: Romiley to Hyde Central Hike
Parking: Romiley Train Station, Compstall Road, Romiley, Cheshire, SK6 4BN (W3W:///blues.damp.jars).
Dogs: Allowed, but must be on a short lead during nesting season and around livestock.
Facilities: There are plenty of pubs and cafes in Romiley, including the Romiley Arms which has a public loo available during pub opening hours.
Walk Time: 1-2 hours
Difficulty: ▲
Distance: 4 miles (6.4km)
Elevation: 75ft (22m)
Trig Points Bagged: None
Peak District Peaks Bagged: None
Peak District Ethels Bagged: None
Check out the whole trail: Steel Cotton Rail Trail
