Welcome to the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway

Since 2002, we have been welcoming visitors to our heritage railway, operating services between Wirksworth and Duffield, with intermediate stations at Idridgehay and Shottle. The line is run by a dedicated team of volunteers who help to preserve the charm of classic rail travel.

We also run limited services to Ravenstor Station, one mile north of Wirksworth at the end of a unique 1-in-27 incline. From here, visitors can enjoy direct access to the High Peak Trail — a gateway for walkers, cyclists and families exploring the area.

The 9-mile route follows the Ecclesbourne Valley, passing through woodlands, farmland and gently undulating hills — a setting that showcases some of Derbyshire’s most beautiful countryside. It’s the perfect backdrop for a fascinating day out, enjoyed by all ages.

We operate regular passenger services most weekends, hauled by steam and classic diesel locomotives. Throughout the year, we also host a wide range of events, including Santa Specials, murder mysteries, afternoon teas and fine dining experiences.

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Santa’s Enchanted Journey

Returning for 2026, Santa’s Enchanted Journey, Ecclesbourne Valley Railway’s Santa special, is the perfect way for all the family to get into the Christmas spirit.

The steam-hauled services will be running from the end of November until 24 December.

For the 2026 season we have lined-up a wide range of new activities and experiences, that will delight every child, and we also have two ticket options: standard and premium.

On board the magical steam train you’ll enjoy:

* Elves reading Christmas stories
* A sing-along with the elves
* Play games with the elves
* A magic elf will look after Christmas wishes
* A toy elf will bring colouring books to life
* Our reindeer elf will look after Rudolph’s nose
* Santa will have presents for all children
* Meet Mrs Claus

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Foundations for the Future

We’re inviting members of the public and local businesses to support our 2026 fundraising campaign, which will generate funds for essential track maintenance.

Below, we have various donation suggestions, but any amount will be gratefully received:

• £25 buys one ton of ballast, essential for the stability of the track

• £35 buys a brand new sleeper, securing the rails for years to come

• £60 buys a sleeper and one ton of ballast

We promise that every penny raised will go directly to funding the trackbed renewal and we sincerely appreciate every donation.

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Diesel Hauled Service
Steam Hauled Service
Special Timetable

Regular service

Diesel Hauled Service

Regular services hauled by a diesel locomotive.

Scheduled locomotive

D1842 — Class 47

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Wirksworth to Duffield

Train	Wirksworth	Idridgehay	Shottle	Duffield
Morning	10:15	10:35	10:41	10:53
Midday	12:45	13:05	13:11	13:23
Afternoon	15:20	15:40	15:46	15:58

Duffield to Wirksworth

Train	Duffield	Shottle	Idridgehay	Wirksworth
Morning	11:15	11:29	11:37	11:56
Midday	13:45	13:59	14:07	14:26
Afternoon	16:20	16:34	16:42	17:01

Morning

WirksworthDeparts10:15
Idridgehay10:35
Shottle10:41
DuffieldArrives10:53
Return journey
DuffieldDeparts11:15
Shottle11:29
Idridgehay11:37
WirksworthArrives11:56

Midday

WirksworthDeparts12:45
Idridgehay13:05
Shottle13:11
DuffieldArrives13:23
Return journey
DuffieldDeparts13:45
Shottle13:59
Idridgehay14:07
WirksworthArrives14:26

Afternoon

WirksworthDeparts15:20
Idridgehay15:40
Shottle15:46
DuffieldArrives15:58
Return journey
DuffieldDeparts16:20
Shottle16:34
Idridgehay16:42
WirksworthArrives17:01

Regular service