East Midlands Railway (EMR), in collaboration with Mayor Claire Ward and the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), has unveiled a new map designed to showcase key attractions across the East Midlands. The map details how these destinations can be reached using public transport, aiming to encourage more leisure journeys via train and bus.
This initiative is part of a broader effort by EMR and EMCCA to promote sustainable travel for leisure and to support local tourism and the visitor economy. Mayor Ward commented on the map's utility, stating, "From Creswell Crags in north Nottinghamshire to Sudbury Hall in south Derbyshire, there are so many brilliant places to visit across our region, and many of them are easy to get to by public transport." She added that the guide makes it simpler to plan trips without a car.
The map also integrates local heritage railways, such as the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway and Peak Rail, with the main public transport network. "We’re delighted to be working with East Midlands Railway on this and helping more people discover the fantastic places we have right on our doorstep,” Mayor Ward stated.
The guide highlights rail and bus connections to a variety of destinations, from cultural and historic sites to outdoor adventures. It aims to make planning a more sustainable day out easier for families, friends, and solo explorers. The map is available for download on the EMR website.
Tom Rooney, Strategic Transport Integration Manager at East Midlands Railway, expressed enthusiasm for the project, saying, "Our region is packed with fantastic places to explore, and our new tourism map makes it easier to discover them without needing to get behind the wheel." He hopes the map will inspire people to choose public transport for their adventures.
EMR, operated by Transport UK, is exploring the creation of similar maps in other regions it serves. The new tourism map can be picked up at participating EMR stations or downloaded online.
