Ecclesbourne Valley Railway

The Ecclesbourne Valley Railway is in the process of buying and re-opening the line between Duffield and the Wirksworth in the Derbyshire Dales. Its headquarters are at Wirksworth Station where the railway's volunteers are busy working to bring the line back to life after many years of disuse. The line passes through the lovely Ecclesbourne Valley and the group are restoring the railway in stages. So far they have got from Wirksworth to Idrigehay, a distance of about 6 kilometres of the 14 kilometre total.

There are visitor facilities at Wirksworth Station (on Coldwell Street) including a Visitor Centre describing the project and a small shop and cafe. These are open every day from 10.00 am to 4.00 pm, so do call the station (Tel: 01629 823076). On site is the sole remaining Derby Lightweight railcar unit. Built in 1954, "Iris" went into use as a departmental coach for some years and she has now been beautifully restored to her original condition. Visitors come from all over the country to see her with her being the last remaining rail vehicle of her kind!

Trains run between Wirksworth and Idridgehay on Saturdays and Wirksworth and Ravenstor on Sundays.

Admission to the station area is free and special events are held from time to time.