Grab a trail map and your train ticket, and enjoy a lovely day out in the Peak District. The Art Trail by Rail is returning to the Hope Valley for a second year, running over two full days on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September 2026. After a brilliant first year last year, this free event is inviting visitors to hop on and off the scenic Hope Valley line to discover local art, craft and creativity in villages from Chinley to Grindleford.
Last year’s trail brought in over 150 visitors and 18 local artists, and this year we’re going bigger. The event now spans a full weekend across even more venues, with over 40 artists taking part with open studios, live demonstrations and hands-on workshops.
Pick up a trail map from any participating venue, then let the train (or bus) take the strain as you explore exhibitions and have a go at activities like pottery-throwing, zine making, felting, sketching and collage. We’re especially excited that Padley Chapel (Grindleford) is opening its doors just for the Art Trail this year. This beautiful 14th-century chapel, steeped in local history, will become a space for visitors to get creative themselves.
Emily, founder of the Art Trail and community engagement lead at Hope Valley Climate Action, said: “We hope this project will inspire people who live in and visit the area to travel by sustainable means beyond the event. Also, the timing of this project couldn’t be better as the Department for Transport has recently announced funding to support the Mini Switzerland Project, which is an integrated transport demonstrator, using Hope Valley as the pilot project.”
None of this would be possible without our sponsors and partners. A big thank you to TransPennine Express, who’ve helped bring the Art Trail by Rail back for another year. Thank you for helping us celebrate local art and sustainable travel across the Hope Valley!
Andrew Watkins, Community & Development Manager at TransPennine Express, said: “Projects like the Hope Valley Art Trail show the important role community rail can play in bringing people together while encouraging more sustainable travel, which TransPennine Express is proud to support. By encouraging visitors to travel by train and bus, we’re helping people discover the area while supporting local communities, businesses and tourism.”
Event details:
- When: Saturday 26 – Sunday 27 September 2026, 10am – 5pm
- Where: Villages along the Hope Valley railway line, from Chinley to Grindleford
- How to take part: Free to attend! Find out more and book your tickets on our event page here.
Questions? Please email us at info@hopevalleyclimateaction.org.uk
Please note: The event is free, but you will require a valid train ticket on the day. Please see our event page for travel information.
