The 1700’s Industrial Revolution prompted the need for better transport links. Initially this was met by canals but to link the Cromford and Peak Forest canals, a railway was a cheaper option. Josias Jessop completed the link in 1831 using canal engineering techniques. Hence the High Peak Railway crosses the Pennines using level sections joined by inclines. Wagons were transported up and down the inclines using the power of stationary steam engines at the top of each incline. In the 1850’s the Cromford and High Peak Railway became part of the national rail system. Quarries opened along the railway to transport limestone for the steel industry. The last train past over the railway on 30.4.1967 so giving rise to a new use – recreation as the High Peak Trail.