The Steeple Grange Light Railway

A narrow-gauge railway running through the Derbyshire countryside near Matlock, the Steeple Grange Light Railway is the sort of place that appeals instantly to anyone who remembers the romance of proper railways. You board at the station and travel along a short stretch of track through genuine Peak District scenery - nothing flashy, just honest railway engineering and views that actually matter.

It's brilliant for families with young children, especially those mad about trains. The ride itself won't take hours - this is a working heritage line, not a full day out - but it scratches that genuine itch for steam and wheels and the smell of coal. Older kids might find it a bit short if they're not train enthusiasts, though the novelty of being in a real carriage tends to win most of them over for the duration.

Historically minded visitors will appreciate what this railway represents: a slice of transport heritage that could easily have vanished. It's the sort of place where volunteers actually care about getting details right, which makes the whole experience feel authentic rather than theme-park-ified.

If you're based at Lickpenny Matlock or Packhorse Farm - both within easy reach - it works perfectly as a half-hour diversion. Combine it with a walk around Matlock town itself, or time it as a break between longer hikes in the surrounding hills. Check opening hours before you go, as these heritage lines keep variable schedules depending on the season.