During the time in which the Trust was being formed, a grant was given towards the development of a new 11 mile walking route between Duffield and Wirksworth along the valley of the River Ecclesbourne.

 

The route can be walked in either direction but its initial information leaflet gives the route in the diection from Duffield to Wirksworth, that is to say, south to north. A further grant was given in early 2016 towards additional work on the route, which provides an important link for walkers and ramblers to access the Peak District by train, because the route can be taken from starting points at Duffield Station or Wirksworth Station and visitors using the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway can also use it to walk some or all of the valley between stations, or to use the train in one direction and enjoy the walk in the other direction if they wish.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Details of the Ecclesbourne Way can be found here. A circular walk of almost 25 miles can also be achieved by using the Ecclesbourne Way from Duffield to Wirksworth, then continuing from Wirksworth town centre along Old Lane through the grounds of the National Stone Centre to join the High Peak Trail eastwards towards Cromford, and then pick up the Midshires Way from Cromford back to Duffield. This route truly shows this part of the Peak District and the Derwent Valley at its best. Please bear in mind that as for all long distance walks you should be adequately prepared.