Railways of Derbyshire

Derbyshire's railways reflect the county's contrasts, with the LNW controlling limestone extraction in the west and multiple companies competing for coal carrying in the North Midlands Coalfield. The Midland Railway had routes to London, Birmingham, and Sheffield, while the MRs Hope Valley route included two of the longest tunnels in Britain. The Great Centrals Woodhead route carved its way through gritstone, and six railway companies were represented in the county, including the Great Northern and North Staffordshire. This book charts the development of the county's railways from the earliest days, using previously unpublished photographs.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 15 July 2022
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

Derbyshire, a county of contrasts, showcases a remarkable evolution of its railways, reflecting the diverse tapestry of its landscapes and industries. In the western region known as Limestone Country, the influence of the LNW (London and North Western Railway) was evident, with its extensive network of railways spanning from Ashbourne and Cromford to Buxton, intricately involved in the extraction of limestone. Meanwhile, in the eastern part of the county, a fierce competition unfolded as no fewer than four distinct companies vied for the lucrative business of coal transportation within the vast North Midlands Coalfield. From the historic railway town of Derby, the Midland Railway extended its routes southward to London, westward to Birmingham, and northward to Sheffield, forming a vital connection between the county's various regions. In the northern reaches of Derbyshire, the MRs Hope Valley route emerged, boasting two of the longest tunnels in Britain. Furthermore, the Great Centrals Woodhead route carved its way through the rugged gritstone, adding another chapter to the county's railway heritage. Remarkably, a total of six railway companies had a presence in Derbyshire, each contributing to the intricate network that shaped its development. These companies included the Great Northern, which penetrated from the east, the North Staffordshire in the south-west, and the Lancashire, Derbyshire & East Coast Railway, renowned for its transversal Chesterfield–Lincoln line. This captivating story, unveiled through previously unpublished photographs, unfolds in this book, providing a detailed account of the county's railway development from its earliest days. The rich visual imagery and comprehensive narrative make it a must-read for enthusiasts of rail history and geography alike.

Weight: 288g
Dimension: 166 x 235 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781398110090