Monsal Trail: Scenic Peak District Railway Path
Explore 8.5 miles of scenic Peak District valleys, historic railway tunnels, and iconic viaducts on the accessible Monsal Trail.
The Monsal Trail is an 8.5-mile traffic-free trail in England’s Peak District, following a former Midland Railway line. It offers walkers, cyclists, horse riders, and wheelchair users stunning limestone dales, historic tunnels, and impressive viaducts, including the iconic Headstone Viaduct at Monsal Head. The trail connects charming villages like Bakewell and Hassop, with amenities such as cafes, cycle hire, and picnic spots along the route.
A brief summary to Monsal Trail
- GB
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Bring lights for the tunnels as they can be dim even when lit during daylight.
- Hire bikes at Hassop Station or Blackwell Mill for an easy and family-friendly cycling experience.
- Stop at Monsal Head Viaduct for panoramic views and photo opportunities.
- Visit cafes at Hassop Station and Miller’s Dale for refreshments and restrooms.
- Weekday mornings are best for fewer crowds and a peaceful walk or ride.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the bus from Derby or Sheffield to Bakewell, with journey times ranging from 50 to 70 minutes. Bakewell is a short taxi ride or a 2 km walk from the trail start at Coombs Road. Bus services run regularly but check schedules on weekends and holidays.
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Train and Taxi
Travel by train to Matlock or Chesterfield, then take a taxi to Bakewell or Hassop Station. Train journeys from London take about 2.5 to 3 hours. Taxis from stations to the trail start typically cost £15-£25.
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Car
Drive to Bakewell or Blackwell Mill where parking is available near trail access points. Parking is free or low cost but can fill up during weekends and holidays. Some sections have limited parking, so arrive early during peak seasons.
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Cycling
Experienced cyclists can access the Monsal Trail via connected Peak District routes such as the White Peak Loop. The trail surface is smooth and suitable for all abilities, with bike hire available at Hassop Station and Blackwell Mill.
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
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Monsal Trail
A Journey Through Industrial Heritage and Natural Beauty
The Monsal Trail traces the route of the former Midland Railway line, constructed in 1863, now repurposed as a multi-use trail spanning approximately 8.5 miles through the Peak District’s limestone dales. This path follows the River Wye valley, linking Blackwell Mill near Buxton to Bakewell, and passes through several quaint villages including Millers Dale, Cressbrook, Great Longstone, and Hassop. The trail is a remarkable blend of industrial heritage and natural splendor, featuring restored railway infrastructure such as viaducts and tunnels that once served the region’s bustling rail network.Iconic Structures and Atmospheric Tunnels
Among the trail’s most striking features is the Headstone Viaduct at Monsal Head, a Victorian engineering marvel spanning the valley with five arches and standing 70 feet high. Once controversial for its impact on the landscape, it now offers breathtaking panoramic views of Monsal Dale and the surrounding countryside. The trail also includes six historic tunnels—Headstone, Cressbrook, Litton, Chee Tor 1 and 2, and Rusher Cutting—each approximately 400 yards long and lit during daylight hours. These tunnels provide a unique atmospheric experience, allowing visitors to glimpse the region’s railway past while enjoying safe passage through limestone hills.Accessible Recreation for All Abilities
Designed as a traffic-free corridor, the Monsal Trail welcomes walkers, cyclists, horse riders, and wheelchair users alike. Its gentle gradients and smooth tarmac surface make it accessible for families, casual cyclists, and those with mobility aids. Cycle hire is available at Hassop Station and Blackwell Mill, with family-friendly facilities including cafes, picnic areas, and restrooms. The trail’s connectivity to other Peak District routes, such as the White Peak Loop, extends opportunities for longer excursions and varied adventures.Engaging Local Villages and Refreshment Stops
Along the route, visitors can explore charming settlements with inviting amenities. Hassop Station has been transformed into a popular cafe and cycle hire hub, while Miller’s Dale offers The Refreshment Room cafe and public toilets. Nearby Great Longstone features traditional pubs like The White Lion and The Crispin, ideal for a hearty meal. The trail also provides access to nature reserves like Miller’s Dale Quarry, rich in wildflowers and wildlife during warmer months.Seasonal Highlights and Visitor Tips
The Monsal Trail is a year-round destination, though spring and summer bring vibrant greenery and blooming flora, enhancing the scenic experience. Autumn colors add a warm palette to the limestone dales, while winter offers crisp, tranquil walks. Visitors are advised to bring lights for the tunnels and bells for cycling safety. Weekday mornings tend to be quieter, allowing for peaceful exploration. The trail hosts a weekly 5 km Parkrun event starting at Hassop Station, fostering community engagement and fitness.Conservation and Sustainable Enjoyment
Managed by the Peak District National Park Authority, the Monsal Trail exemplifies sustainable reuse of historical infrastructure. Its designation as National Cycle Route 680 and part of the White Peak Loop supports eco-friendly travel and outdoor recreation. Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment, adhere to Leave No Trace principles, and enjoy the trail’s blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty responsibly.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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
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
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
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
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
