Monsal Trail: Scenic Peak District Railway Path
Explore the Monsal Trail, an 8.5-mile scenic Peak District route featuring historic viaducts, tunnels, and stunning limestone valley views.
The Monsal Trail is an 8.5-mile traffic-free route in the Derbyshire Peak District, following a former Midland Railway line through limestone dales. It offers walkers, cyclists, horse riders, and wheelchair users stunning views of valleys, viaducts, and tunnels, including the iconic Headstone Viaduct and six historic railway tunnels. The trail connects charming villages like Bakewell and Hassop, featuring cafes, cycle hire, and rich Victorian engineering heritage.
A brief summary to Monsal Trail
- GB
- Duration: 1 to 5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy walking shoes or cycling gear, especially for longer sections and tunnel passages.
- Bring a bike light and bell if cycling through the tunnels, as lighting can be dim.
- Visit Hassop Station for bike rentals, a café, and family-friendly facilities.
- Plan your visit on weekday mornings to enjoy fewer crowds and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Stop at Monsal Head for panoramic views and excellent photo opportunities.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Bus
Travelers can take a train to Bakewell railway station or nearby Matlock, then catch local bus services to the Monsal Trail access points. The combined journey typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours from Derby or Sheffield, with bus fares ranging from £5 to £10. Note that bus services may be less frequent on weekends and public holidays.
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Car
Driving to the Monsal Trail is convenient with parking available at Hassop Station, Millers Dale, and Bakewell. Travel times from Sheffield or Derby range from 40 to 60 minutes. Parking is generally free but can be limited during peak seasons. Some trailheads may have uneven terrain, so suitable footwear is recommended.
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Cycle
Cyclists can access the trail from Bakewell or Blackwell Mill, with bike hire available at Hassop Station and Blackwell Mill. The route is mostly flat and traffic-free, ideal for all skill levels. Cycling from Bakewell to Hassop Station takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes. Carry lights for tunnel sections for safety.
Monsal Trail location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Monsal Trail
A Journey Through Peak District’s Limestone Valleys
The Monsal Trail stretches 8.5 miles along a disused Midland Railway line, winding through the picturesque limestone dales of the Peak District. This trail follows the River Wye valley, linking villages such as Bakewell, Hassop, Great Longstone, and Millers Dale. Once a vital railway route built in 1863, it now serves as a serene corridor for walkers, cyclists, horse riders, and wheelchair users, offering a peaceful escape into nature’s embrace.Engineering Marvels and Historic Railway Features
The trail is renowned for its impressive Victorian engineering, most notably the Headstone Viaduct at Monsal Head, a striking five-arch limestone and blue brick structure spanning 300 feet and towering 70 feet above the River Wye. The route also passes through six railway tunnels, including the 533-yard Headstone Tunnel and the 471-yard Litton Tunnel, all of which were reopened and lit for public use in 2011. These tunnels provide a unique atmospheric experience, blending industrial heritage with natural beauty.Visitor Facilities and Trail Experience
Along the route, amenities enhance the visitor experience. Hassop Station, near the Bakewell end, offers bike hire suitable for all ages, a café, and a play area, making it a family-friendly starting point. Millers Dale station features a café and toilets, and the former goods shed serves as a free interpretation zone. The trail’s flat, traffic-free path is ideal for leisurely cycling, walking, and running, with a popular 5 km Parkrun held every Saturday morning.Scenic Highlights and Nature Encounters
The Monsal Trail showcases breathtaking panoramas, from the sweeping views at Monsal Head to the tranquil Water-cum-Jolly Dale. The route passes close to historic mills such as Cressbrook and Litton, and through areas rich in wildlife and limestone geology. The peaceful surroundings invite mindfulness and nature appreciation, with opportunities for photography at iconic spots like the Headstone Viaduct and within the tunnels.Seasonal Considerations and Accessibility
The trail is accessible year-round, though weather in the Peak District can change rapidly, so visitors should prepare accordingly. The path is mostly flat and well-maintained, suitable for all fitness levels, including wheelchair users. The tunnels are lit during daylight hours, but cyclists are advised to carry lights and bells for safety. The trail’s popularity peaks in spring and summer when the surrounding countryside is lush and vibrant.Legacy and Cultural Significance
The Monsal Trail is a cherished example of adaptive reuse, transforming a disused railway into a multi-use recreational asset that preserves industrial heritage while promoting outdoor activity. It forms part of the wider White Peak Loop and National Cycle Route 680, contributing to sustainable tourism and local community engagement in the Peak District National Park.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Peak District National Park Authority
4.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of Peak District National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Baslow Edge
8.4 km
Experience stunning panoramas and serene walks at Baslow Edge in Peak District National Park, the perfect escape for nature lovers and photographers.
Carl Wark
12.5 km
Explore Carl Wark, an ancient Iron Age hillfort on a rugged Peak District promontory with sweeping moorland views and rich prehistoric heritage.
Bamford Edge
13.5 km
Bamford Edge offers stunning panoramic views of Ladybower Reservoir and Hope Valley, a must-visit gritstone escarpment in the Peak District.
Dark Peak Estate
15.1 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Dark Peak Estate, a must-visit scenic point and hiking area in the heart of Hope Valley.
Brown Knoll
16.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Brown Knoll, a must-visit attraction in the Peak District, perfect for hiking, photography, and nature lovers.
Pic Tor War Memorial
16.7 km
A solemn Celtic cross atop Pic Tor, offering panoramic views and heartfelt remembrance of Matlock’s war heroes.
Jacob's Ladder
17.3 km
Discover Jacob's Ladder, a premier hiking area in the Peak District, offering stunning views and a rewarding outdoor adventure for all levels of hikers.
Eccles Pike
17.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Eccles Pike in the High Peak; a perfect blend of hiking adventures and stunning panoramic views.
Heights of Abraham
17.5 km
Discover the breathtaking Heights of Abraham, a mountain cable car attraction in the Peak District offering stunning views, engaging history, and delightful outdoor experiences.
Peak District Mining Museum
17.7 km
Explore the rich mining heritage of the Peak District at the Peak District Mining Museum, an engaging destination for all ages.
Edale Cross
17.7 km
Medieval moorland monument marking the boundary of three historic forest wards and a symbolic waypoint on the Pennine Way.
Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet
17.7 km
Explore the rich industrial heritage of Sheffield at Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet, where history comes to life in a beautifully preserved setting.
Ecclesall Woods
18.1 km
Ecclesall Woods: A lush escape in Sheffield, perfect for outdoor adventures, serene walks, and connecting with nature amidst stunning landscapes.
Forge Dam Park
18.1 km
Forge Dam Park - A peaceful retreat in Sheffield, offering scenic views, serene walks, and a delightful café amidst nature's beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
Water-Cum-Jolly Dale
1.5 km
Discover Water-Cum-Jolly Dale’s peaceful river valley, historic railway viaduct, and thriving wildlife sanctuary in the heart of Derbyshire.
Magpie Mine
3.6 km
Explore Magpie Mine near Sheldon, Derbyshire — a hauntingly beautiful relic of England’s last working lead mine with over 200 years of rich industrial history.
Millers Dale Viaduct
4.4 km
Historic Victorian railway viaduct spanning the River Wye, now a scenic highlight of the Monsal Trail in the Peak District.
Abseiling Derbyshire
4.5 km
Experience thrilling abseiling adventures amid historic railway heritage and stunning Peak District landscapes at Millers Dale Station.
Bakewell Old House Museum
4.6 km
Step back in time at Bakewell Old House Museum, a Tudor gem revealing centuries of local history through interactive exhibits and family-friendly trails.
Bakewell
4.7 km
Historic market town famed for its Bakewell tart, scenic riverside walks, and access to grand Peak District estates.
The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop
4.9 km
Historic Bakewell venue famed for its original award-winning puddings, artisan bakery, and charming British restaurant.
Bakewell Bridge
4.9 km
Explore Bakewell Bridge: A Historic Gem in the Heart of Derbyshire, Perfect for Scenic Strolls and Cultural Discoveries.
Chee Dale Stepping Stones
6.0 km
Hop across river stones in a hidden Peak District gorge, where woodland, limestone cliffs and the Monsal Trail tunnels create a magical riverside adventure.
Eyam Museum
6.1 km
Discover Eyam Museum, where the story of a village’s brave self-quarantine during the 1665 plague comes vividly to life in the heart of the Peak District.
Chatsworth Estate Farm Shop
6.2 km
Award-winning farm shop offering fresh estate-reared produce, artisanal goods, and a seasonal café experience with stunning Chatsworth views.
Lathkill Dale
6.2 km
Explore the serene limestone valley of Lathkill Dale, where natural beauty meets rich history in the heart of England’s Peak District.
Riley Graves
6.7 km
Explore Riley Graves, a historical gem in Hope Valley, where nature and history intertwine to create an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
River Lathkill
6.7 km
Discover the crystal-clear River Lathkill flowing through a stunning limestone valley rich in wildlife, history, and scenic beauty near Bakewell.
Mompesson's Well
6.9 km
Historic boundary well where Eyam villagers left disinfected coins to contain the 1665 plague, symbolizing sacrifice and resilience in Derbyshire’s Peak District.
Essential places to dine
The Crispin
1.8 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Great Longstone offering hearty British fare and local ales in the heart of the Peak District.
White Lion
1.9 km
A charming Peak District gastropub offering hearty British fare, warm welcomes, and a cozy village atmosphere in Great Longstone.
Riverside House Hotel
2.4 km
A 5-star riverside retreat blending historic charm with Michelin-starred dining in the heart of the Peak District.
The Horse & Jockey
4.7 km
A cozy, traditional village pub and B&B in Tideswell offering hearty meals, warm fires, and comfortable rooms in the Peak District.
Piedaniel's
4.8 km
A charming family-run French restaurant in Bakewell offering refined cuisine, elegant ambiance, and impeccable service for memorable dining experiences.
Restaurant Lovage by Lee Smith
4.9 km
Innovative modern English cuisine with Michelin-starred finesse in a cozy Bakewell setting, blending local heritage with contemporary elegance.
The Merchant's Yard
4.9 km
A charming boutique hotel and award-winning restaurant in Tideswell, blending historic character with seasonal Peak District cuisine.
The Woodyard
5.0 km
Historic marble works turned vibrant restaurant with fresh homemade food and a scenic riverside beer garden in the heart of Bakewell.
The Anchor Inn
5.1 km
A classic Peak District pub offering hearty meals, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Tideswell.
The Manners, Bakewell
5.1 km
Traditional Robinsons pub in Bakewell serving excellent local ales and renowned pub food, with dog-friendly rooms and a spacious beer garden.
Derbyshire Eats
5.2 km
Experience refined dining and bespoke catering excellence in the charming village of Tideswell at Derbyshire Eats.
The Bulls Head
6.0 km
A beloved village pub in Monyash serving hearty British classics with generous portions in a warm, rustic setting.
The Devonshire Arms at Pilsley
6.0 km
A historic Peak District inn blending rustic charm, elegant rooms, and fresh local cuisine near Chatsworth Estate.
The Eating House
7.0 km
A cozy café nestled in Derbyshire Craft Centre offering fresh, inclusive menus and a warm community atmosphere in Hope Valley.
Fischer's Baslow Hall
7.1 km
Elegant Edwardian manor with refined British dining, charming gardens, and luxurious accommodation in the heart of the Peak District.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Edge of the World
4.9 km
Boutique clothing and accessories shop in Bakewell offering quality fashion with a welcoming atmosphere and expert service.
The Derbyshire Emporium
4.9 km
Local artisan gifts and homemade refreshments in the heart of Bakewell's charming town centre.
The British Emporium
4.9 km
Discover a refined collection of authentic British-made gifts and homewares in the heart of Bakewell’s historic market town.
Bon Voyage Bakewell
4.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Bon Voyage Bakewell, nestled in the heart of Bakewell’s historic market town.
Mini Chic- clothing, gifts, and accessories for children and babies
4.9 km
Charming boutique offering stylish children’s clothing, gifts, and accessories in the heart of Bakewell’s historic town centre.
Perfect Gifts Bakewell
5.0 km
Discover unique local gifts and heartfelt treasures in the cozy charm of Perfect Gifts Bakewell, your go-to shop for thoughtful souvenirs.
Antique and Unique
5.0 km
Three decades of authentic antiques and vintage treasures in the heart of the Peak District.
Delightful Living
5.9 km
Discover unique artisan gifts in the heart of Eyam’s historic craft centre, blending heritage with handcrafted charm.
Derbyshire Gift Centre
7.0 km
A charming family-run gift shop and café in Hope Valley offering seasonal treasures and homemade delights in the Peak District.
High Peak Bookstore and Cafe
9.6 km
A charming independent bookstore and cozy café nestled in the scenic Peak District near Buxton, perfect for book lovers and casual visitors alike.
The Works
9.6 km
Affordable arts, crafts, books, and toys in the vibrant Peak Village outlet near Matlock.
Pookie - Wookie Ltd
10.8 km
Handcrafted artisan ceramics by a mother-daughter duo in the scenic Hope Valley, perfect for unique and meaningful gifts.
Outside.co.uk
11.0 km
Your essential outdoor clothing and equipment shop in Hathersage, offering expert gear and a cozy café for Peak District adventurers.
The Old Barn
11.5 km
A practical outdoor and gift shop in Castleton’s Market Place, perfect for stocking up before exploring the Peak District’s hills and caves.
The Original Blue John Craft Shop
11.6 km
Discover unique handcrafted Blue John jewellery and gifts in Castleton’s charming craft shop, celebrating Derbyshire’s rare gemstone heritage.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Packhorse Inn
0.9 km
A cozy, traditional Peak District pub with warm fires, local ales, scenic views, and welcoming rooms near Bakewell.
Red Lion Inn
3.9 km
A quintessential Peak District country pub offering hearty fare, real fires, and warm hospitality in the charming village of Litton.
Anglers Rest
4.2 km
A cozy riverside pub in Millers Dale offering hearty home-cooked meals, local ales, and a tranquil garden in the heart of the Peak District.
Castle
4.9 km
A classic Greene King pub in Bakewell serving hearty British fare in a warm, historic setting near the Peak District.
Wheatsheaf Pub and Pantry
4.9 km
Cozy Bakewell pub blending traditional charm with modern pantry dining, serving generous portions in a warm, dog- and child-friendly setting.
The George Inn
4.9 km
Traditional Peak District pub and cozy B&B in Tideswell offering hearty food, friendly service, and a warm village atmosphere.
Star Inn
5.0 km
A classic Peak District pub in Tideswell offering hearty pies, real ales, and a warm, lively atmosphere in a charming village setting.
The Bull at Foolow
5.2 km
Historic Peak District pub and boutique inn offering cozy rooms, hearty fare, and scenic countryside charm in the village of Foolow.
The Barrel Inn
6.5 km
Historic hilltop inn offering cozy rooms, excellent local cuisine, and breathtaking views over Hope Valley and the Peak District.
The Eyre Arms
6.6 km
A charming historic pub in Hope Valley offering hearty Derbyshire fare and warm hospitality in the heart of the Peak District.
The Flying Childers Inn
9.5 km
A cozy, dog-friendly country pub in Stanton in Peak offering fresh, mostly vegan fare and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the Peak District.
The George
11.6 km
Traditional British charm meets cozy comfort in Castleton’s welcoming pub with rooms, great food, and scenic Hope Valley views.
The Castle
11.6 km
A historic pub in Castleton offering hearty British fare, scenic views, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Hope Valley.
Bulls Head, Castleton
11.6 km
Historic pub and cozy inn in Castleton offering traditional British fare, comfortable rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere in the Peak District.
San Pedro (By Santiago)
12.4 km
A vibrant Spanish wine bar and cocktail lounge in Buxton offering authentic tapas, fine wines, and a lively atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Level 2
12.3 km
Buxton’s vibrant two-floor nightclub with diverse music, lively bars, and themed nights, perfect for an energetic night out.
The Loft
16.3 km
A vibrant, intimate nightclub in Matlock offering lively music, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere in the town center.
Waikiki Beach Bar
20.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Waikiki Beach Bar, Derbyshire's go-to destination for dancing, drinks, and unforgettable memories.
Dempseys Bar and Club
22.5 km
Sheffield's enduring gay bar and club: two floors of drinks, dances, karaoke, and late-night energy from noon till dawn in the city centre.
Corporation
22.6 km
Sheffield’s iconic nightclub with non-stop dance beats and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Code Sheffield
22.8 km
Sheffield's ultimate nightclub: massive dance floor, six bars, LED lights, and epic nights till 6am—student favorites and global DJs collide in city-centre chaos.
Fez Sheffield
22.9 km
Dive into Sheffield’s vibrant electronic dance scene at Fez, the city centre’s intimate nightclub with pulsating beats and dazzling laser shows.
Temple Sheffield
22.9 km
Dive into Sheffield's underground heartbeat at Temple Nightclub, where beats thump till 6am, drinks flow affordably, and nights ignite with raw energy.
ONYX Nightclub Sheffield
22.9 km
Dive into Sheffield's raucous nightlife at ONYX, where neon quirks, bass-heavy beats, and cheap thrills fuel epic nights till dawn in the city centre.
Popworld - Sheffield
22.9 km
A vibrant nightclub in Sheffield city centre, Popworld offers lively pop beats, affordable drinks, and a welcoming party atmosphere every weekend.
The Viper Rooms
23.0 km
Sheffield's stylish split-level nightclub: upscale cocktails on the terrace lounge, eclectic beats on the dancefloor—dress sharp for urban nights that pulse till dawn.
The Leadmill
23.1 km
Sheffield's 40-year heartbeat of live music, club nights, and comedy in a gritty, immersive venue near the station—where crowds roar and nights ignite.
Al Ahsa Night Club
23.2 km
Dance the night away at Al Ahsa Night Club, Sheffield's premier disco destination for unforgettable nightlife experiences.
Tank
23.4 km
A gritty, late‑night underground club on Arundel Gate — loud sound, house and techno nights, and a compact, rave‑style dancefloor.
The Night Kitchen
23.4 km
Dive into Sheffield's industrial heartbeat at The Night Kitchen, where former cutlery factory walls pulse with electronic beats until dawn in a raw, inclusive nightlife haven.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly