Disley Tunnel was built by the Midland Railway in 1902 on its line between New Mills South Junction and Manchester Central, which was more direct than the congested and difficult lines through Stockport Tiviot Dale.
It was the most expensive work on the line and at 2 miles, 346 yards (3,535 m), the second-longest tunnel on the Midland system.
By means of a connection on to the old LNWR line from Buxton at Hazel Grove that was opened in 1986, it is now part of the Hope Valley Line into the present-day Stockport railway station.
There is also a short (174 yard) Disley Tunnel nearby on the Buxton Line.
