Definition
Stodhart Tunnel is a former railway tunnel located in Derbyshire, England. It formed part of the Cromford and High Peak Railway, a 19th‑century line that linked the Cromford Canal with the Peak Forest Canal.
Overview
Constructed in the early 1830s, the tunnel facilitated the passage of goods and mineral traffic across the hilly terrain of the Peak District. The Cromford and High Peak Railway ceased commercial operations in the mid‑20th century, and the tunnel was subsequently abandoned for railway use. Today the tunnel lies within the High Peak Trail, a recreational route for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders, and it remains a visible historic feature of the landscape.
Etymology/Origin
The name “Stodhart” derives from the nearby hamlet of Stodhart in Derbyshire. The exact linguistic origin of the place‑name is not definitively established; it is generally understood to be of Old English origin, possibly relating to a personal name or a term describing a local feature. Accurate information on the precise etymology is not confirmed.
Characteristics
- Length: Approximately 150 yards (about 138 metres).
- Construction: Built using locally quarried stone masonry; the tunnel is a single bore with a roughly rectangular cross‑section.
- Status: Designated as a Grade II listed structure, recognising its historic and architectural significance.
- Current Use: Integrated into the High Peak Trail; the tunnel is open to pedestrian and non‑motorised traffic, with lighting and ventilation provided for safety.
- Surroundings: Set within a rural, upland environment typical of the Derbyshire Peak District, the tunnel is flanked by woodland and pasture.
Related Topics
- Cromford and High Peak Railway: The original railway line of which Stodhart Tunnel was a component.
- High Peak Trail: A long‑distance path that repurposes the former railway corridor, including the tunnel.
- Listed Buildings in Derbyshire: Stodhart Tunnel’s Grade II listing places it among protected historic structures in the county.
- Railway Tunnels in the United Kingdom: The tunnel is an example of early railway engineering in the UK.