Take a train to Derbyshire and enjoy rolling limestone hills, lush valleys and wild moorlands – scenes straight out of classic literary works. In fact, Jane Austen was residing in the area when she wrote ‘Pride and Prejudice’.
Located in England’s East Midlands region, the county of Derbyshire attracts hikers and history lovers of all ages to its National Trust properties, diverse landscapes and other attractions.
For a relaxing day trip or a weekend break, travel from London to Derbyshire by taking a train from London St Pancras International to Derby. The beautiful English county is well connected and has regular trains running to and from London, Leeds, Glasgow, Leicester, Nottingham and other places.
There are stations dotting Derbyshire's entire landscape, providing convenient travel options. The major stops include Hope, Whitwell and Derby. Once you reach Derbyshire, explore local art and culture by visiting the Derby Cathedral, Buxton Museum and Art Gallery and Hardwick Old Hall. There’s plenty to see and do for outdoor enthusiasts as well, with the fascinating Peak District nearby and opportunities to go horse riding and hiking.
Top 5 places to visit while in Derbyshire
With its varied attractions for travellers of every age and interest, picking just a few places to see and things to do in Derbyshire is not easy. Here are the 5 top destinations in the county.
Peak District National Park
Designated in 1951, the Peak District was the first national park in Britain. Spread across 500 square miles, the majestic landscape houses diverse regional flora and fauna. Go hiking, cycling or horse riding to admire the green limestone valleys, and visit Kinder Scout, the highest point in the park. The park is also the ideal place for a camping trip with the family.
Derby train station and city
This mainline station, also known as Derby Midland, has been functioning since 1839 and serves the city of Derby. The station is historic in that it was not only once counted among the biggest stations in the United Kingdom, but was also shared by multiple companies – something unusual at the time. Alight from your train at this station to visit the famous Derby Cathedral, Pickford House Museum and the Derby Museum and Art Gallery.
Bolsover Castle
Originally a Norman fortress, this striking castle was built in the 17th century by the Cavendish family. Marvel at the lavishly designed rooms of the Little Castle and head to the Cavalier Horsemanship displays at the indoor Riding School for a feel of English royal interests. Later, visit the tearoom for a bite at the café.
Dovedale
Visit charming Dovedale in the Peak District to let go of all city-related stress and unwind amid spectacular limestone ravines that attract over a million visitors each year. Spread across 2-3 miles alongside the River Dove, this picturesque spot is also known for its stepping stones, which you can cross and head on to Thorpe Cloud for stunning panoramic views.
Chatsworth House
Sitting by the river Derwent, the magnificent Chatsworth estate has been home to the Cavendish family since the 1550s. The stately residence, which features Baroque and Italianate architecture, houses more than 30 rooms that reflect the changing tastes of the many generations of its residents.
How to reach Derbyshire by train from London
The area has good rail connections, with trains to Derbyshire from major destinations such as London and Manchester, as well as between the county's towns. Multiple train operators, including East Midlands Trains, Northern Rail, and CrossCountry trains provide services to and from Derbyshire.
To get from London to Derbyshire, one popular route involves boarding at London St Pancras International and travelling via Leicester to Sheffield, where a transfer is required. Trains then go past Dore & Totley, Grindleford, Hathersage and Bamford before reaching Hope station. The total journey time is usually between 2.5-3.5 hours.
Another popular route is from London to Whitwell. Board at London Kings Cross or London St Pancras International on an East Midlands Train and travel to Nottingham, where you continue to Whitwell as you pass through Hucknall, Mansfield, Langwith-Whaley Thorns and Creswell.
Derbyshire train stations
- Alfreton
- Ambergate
- Bamford
- Belper
- Buxton
- Chapel-en-le-Frith
- Chesterfield
- Chinley
- Creswell
- Cromford
- Derby
- Dinting
- Dove Holes
- Dronfield
- Duffield
- Edale
- Furness Vale
- Glossop
- Grindleford
- Hadfield
- Hathersage
- Hope
- Langley Mill
- Langwith-Whaley Thorns
- Long Eaton
- Matlock Bath
- Matlock
- New Mills Central
- New Mills Newtown
- Shirebrook
- Tutbury and Hatton
- Whaley Bridge
- Whatstandwell
- Whitwell
- Willington
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main train station in Derbyshire?
The main train station in Derbyshire is Derby railway station. Check out live arrivals and station facilities for Derby railway station.
Which train companies run trains to Derbyshire?
The primary operator of trains to Derbyshire is East Midlands Railway.
How do I find cheap tickets to Derbyshire?
It's easy to bag cheap train tickets to Derbyshire. We'd recommend using a Railcard, buying your ticket in advance or travelling during Off-Peak hours if you can. Read our cheap train tickets guide to find out more.
Are trains to Derbyshire running?
There are frequent daily services to Derbyshire, although there may be fewer services on weekends and bank holidays. Check our live train times for up-to-date information on trains to Derbyshire.