Middleton Top Winding Engine

Steam rises from the engine house on cold mornings, and you can almost hear the ghosts of Victorian industry. This restored winding engine sits on the High Peak Trail, where the Cromford and High Peak Railway once hauled wagons up the steep incline from Cromford Canal to the limestone plateau above. The massive beam engine, built in 1829, is one of the best-preserved examples of its kind in the country.

History buffs will love the engineering stories here - this beast could pull 100 tons up a 1-in-8 gradient using nothing but steam power and hemp ropes. Walkers get a proper treat too, as the engine house marks a scenic spot on the trail with cracking views across the Derwent Valley. Kids might find the static machinery a bit dry after twenty minutes, but there's plenty of space to run about.

The site connects beautifully with a holiday around Carsington Water, just down the hill near Ashbourne. Several parks dot the area including Carsington Water Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite and Hoe Grange Holidays, making this an easy addition to a Peak District break. Best visited as part of a longer walk along the High Peak Trail rather than a dedicated trip - though railway enthusiasts will happily spend an hour examining every bolt and pulley wheel.