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Trail · Bakewell, England
Monsal Trail
A walking and cycling trail along the former railway of the Wye valley, with lit tunnels and the Headstone viaduct over Monsal Dale. It starts near Bakewell.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Monsal Trail
The Monsal Trail follows the bed of a former railway that crossed the Peak District, closed in the late 1960s. Today it is a flat trail for walkers and cyclists, about 14 km between the outskirts of Bakewell and the Blackwell Mill valley near Buxton.
The best-known section is the Headstone viaduct, dating from 1863, which crosses the River Wye in Monsal Dale. The railway's construction was criticised at the time for cutting through the valley, and today the viaduct is protected as heritage. From the Monsal Head viewpoint above you can see the viaduct, the river and the valley slopes.
Several tunnels of the old line have been reopened and lit for the trail. Along the route there are former stations, bridges and 18th- and 19th-century cotton mills by the river. Near the trailhead, in Bakewell and Hassop, there are bike hire facilities.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From two hours to half a day, depending on the section and mode of travel.
Best time
During daylight, at any time of year; in wet weather the track can have puddles. The tunnels are lit until dusk; plan your trip during the day.
How to get there
The trail begins at the former Bakewell station, about 1 km from the town centre. The Headstone viaduct is about 5 km from there; Monsal Head also has parking and bus access.
Tip
To view the viaduct from above, walk up to the Monsal Head viewpoint; to cross it, follow the trail.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Monsal Trail
How long is the Monsal Trail?
About 14 km, between the outskirts of Bakewell and the Blackwell Mill valley near Buxton, on a flat former railway bed.
Can you do the Monsal Trail by bike?
Yes. The trail is flat and there are bike hires near the start, in Bakewell and in Hassop.
Where can you see the Headstone viaduct?
From the Monsal Head viewpoint above the valley, or from the trail itself, which passes over the viaduct.