High Peak Junction Visitor Centre

Nestled in the Derwent Valley, High Peak Junction was the hub of transport activity, built around 1830 –  literally the junction of the Cromford Canal and the High Peak Trail. Now it’s a true haven of heritage and wildlife and houses the High Peak Junction Visitor Centre.

Here, you will discover a variety of buildings from the former Cromford and High Peak Railway – one of the first long distance railways which was built on canal principles.  Step back in time with the fascinating audio tour for a small fee of £1, where you will find out more about the history of Cromford Canal and the Cromford and High Peak Railway. You can also visit the old Railway Workshops, restored to how they would have looked in the 1880s for free.

For information and a warm welcome call in at the  Visitor Centre where there are refreshments, gifts and a variety of maps, walk leaflets and books.

You can also explore the Cromford Canal between Cromford Wharf and Ambergate, a distance of just over five miles. The canal is a haven for wildlife (it is a Site of Special Scientific Interest). Little grebes and water voles can be seen throughout the year, in summer look out for dragonflies, damselflies and hoverflies.

What is more, the High Peak Trail starts here at High Peak Junction and continues for 17.5 miles to Dowlow near Buxton. So if you enjoy a more challenging walk, get on your walking boots. The first part of the walk is a steep climb up Sheep Pasture Incline – look out for the wheel pit, the catch pit and the engine houses along the way.

Getting Here

High Peak Junction and Cromford Wharf car parks are signed from the A6 at Cromford. There are regular bus services. Railway stations at Cromford and Whatstandwell  are only a few minutes walk away from the canal.

High Peak Junction Visitor Centre – the centre is signposted from the A6 at Cromford.

Contact

Telephone: 01629 533298
Email: countrysideservice@derbyhire.gov.uk
Website: www.derbyshire.gov.uk/countryside

Opening Times: Easter to October: Daily 10am to 5pm
November to March, weekends only, 10.30am to 4pm

Admission: Visitor Centre and workshops: Free (a small charge for the audio tour)