Peak Rail, Matlock to Rowsley Heritage Railway, Derbyshire
Peak Rail is a heritage railway line in the heart of the Peak District. It operates both steam and diesel locomotives along a 4 mile stretch of track between Rowsley South and Matlock. Sit back and enjoy Afternoon Tea from the comfort of the restaurant car.
They love to celebrate the golden age of the steam train in Derbyshire. It’s a short line but there’s still plenty of time to enjoy a cream tea or a 1940s themed lunch in the Palantine Restaurant Car. The railway is down the road from Caudwell Mill so it’s easy to combine a visit to both attractions on the same day.
- Dine in the restaurant car
- Enjoy the views
- Discover railway history
- Have a family picnic
Step Aboard A Steam Train
The line forms part of the old Midland line railway which once operated between Manchester Central and London St Pancras and closed in 1968.
It has been restored largely by volunteers and now operates all year round on key dates providing visitors to the Peak District with the opportunity to step back in time to the nostalgic age of the steam train.
Eat in The Palantine Restaurant Car
Treat yourself to Sunday lunch or Afternoon Tea in one of their two restaurant cars or visit for a special themed event such as the popular 1940s weekend.
They also run a Night Train on select dates where you can taste local and specialist ales.
Families may prefer to eat outdoors at the picnic spots at either Rowsley South or Darley Dale station. If you fancy a coffee and a hot bacon butty, there’s also a Buffet Car café at Rowsley station.
Tips
- At Darley Dale station, there’s a small museum displaying memorabilia and posters where you can find out more about the history of the railway
- It takes 30 volunteers to operate the railway each day. If you fancy working in a dining car or would love to make the flowers bloom on the station platform, here’s your golden opportunity
- Trainspotting foodies should check out the National Tramway Museum at nearby Crich. Go for its 1940s week to enjoy a plate of spam, chips and egg
Where to Stay in the Peak District
The Devonshire Arms
Pilsley, Peak District
If you’re looking for accommodation in the Peak District, The Devonshire Arms at Pilsley is a short drive from Rowsley train station. It’s also a convenient 20-minute walk from Chatsworth House.
Rooms from £106 a night.
Ready to Book a Peak District Break? See All: Best Places to Stay in the Peak District
Dogs
I’m very welcome to travel on the train, but unfortunately for me, it’s Guide Dogs only in the Palatine Restaurant Car.
How to Find Peak Rail Matlock Station
Peak Rail Matlock Station, Station Yard, Matlock, Derbyshire DE4 3NA
Visit the Peak Rail website
Explore
Find more Foodie Things To Do in the Peak District.
Discover more Train Dining Experiences and see our recommended Gifts for Train Lovers.
The Foodie Travel Guide
Sally is the founder and editor of The Foodie Travel Guide. She travels around the UK and beyond in search of the best foodie days out, tasting experiences and delicious places to stay. She loves a glass of English sparkling wine, afternoon tea with friends and escaping London for gastronomic adventures.
