New walking trail celebrates 200 years of historic railway in Mansfield

The Mansfield and Pinxton Railway, which is the oldest continuously running commercial railway in England, recently celebrated its 200th anniversary.To mark the achievement, a heritage walking trail has been created –offering seven information boards along the eight-mile-long route.

After months of isolation, around 25 members of the Mansfield and Pinxton Railway Project group met at the Boat Inn in Pinxton, where the walk begins, to officially launch the trail.

Project officer Denis Hill said: “Each board has been strategically located to commemorate specific parts of the original railway and located in such a way that both commuters and walkers can easily access them."

To accompany the trail, the group has also published a self-guiding walk booklet.

The free 40-page booklet splits the railway into three sections and directs walkers step by step close to the old line, as well as offering more information on its history.

They are currently available at the Boat Inn and several libraries in the area.

Denis added: “We are aiming to conduct guided walks along the route soon, subject to government guidance. We are also about to publish a book and video on the history of the railway.”

The group is trying to persuade organisations to hold a stock of its leaflets to make them readily available to walkers.

If you are able to help, email denishill1066@gmail.com.