Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, is walking 150 miles across the region, following a path she hopes to formalise as The Loop.
This active travel route will weave together cities, towns, waterways, and countryside into one connected journey that is designed to boost the visitor economy, celebrate local identity, and promote healthier and greener ways of getting around.
This is the first time a walking route has been designed to connect the entire East Midlands. Whilst it’s not an official route yet, the project aims to spark bigger investment, as the Mayor looks at the infrastructure along ‘The Loop’ to see what needs to be done to make the trail permanent and well-marked in the future.
The Loop is about more than just walking – it’s a big part of the Mayor’s plan to boost tourism, support local high streets and businesses, and encourage active travel like walking and cycling. It’s also a way to bring the people of the East Midlands together by celebrating what makes each part of the region unique.
The walking trail follows a network of historic waterways and existing public paths, connecting lesser-known locations and high streets that stand to benefit from increased footfall.
As part of a major digital campaign, Mayor Claire will walk the entire route, meeting with local residents, community leaders, and everyday heroes. She’ll use these conversations to highlight local issues, explore what’s working, and share her vision for the future.
Starting in Buxton, Mayor Claire began her journey, taking public footpaths and walking trails from Buxton to Miller's Dale. She was joined by members of the Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust, Transport Design International Greenway, and the Buxton Town Team to talk about active travels routes, sustainable transport projects, and the visitor economy in Buxton.
Mayor Claire continues her journey from Millers Dale to Monsal Head, where she is joined by Emma Simpson from Rural Action Derbyshire to talk about rural poverty, transport, and supporting local village communities.
On the third leg of The Loop, Mayor Claire walked from Monsal Head to Eyam, meeting with Godfrey Francis from Peak District Mosaic Group along the way.
Mayor Claire continues her journey of The Loop going from Eyam to Chatsworth. From Eyam to Froggatt's Edge, she is joined by Alice from the National Trust.