The Monsal Trail is a traffic free route for walkers, cyclists, horse riders and wheelchair users through some of the Peak District’s most spectacular limestone dales. The trail runs along the former Midland Railway line for
8.5 miles
between Blackwell Mill, in Chee Dale and Coombs Road, at Bakewell.
How difficult is the Monsal Trail?
The cycling is
very easy
especially as there are at least 3 places with toilets to stop at and very wide paths. We thought it would be a day’s ride but actually in 3 hours had gone there and back but this was with little stopping. over a year ago. Pretty easy, but you can hire electric bikes!
Where does the Monsal Trail start and end?
The Monsal Trail is in the centre of the Peak District National Park,
starting just north of Bakewell, 10 miles north of Matlock and 8 miles west of Chesterfield in Derbyshire
.
How long is the Monsal Trail walk?
The Monsal Trail is a stunning traffic-free cycle route right in the heart of the Peak District National Park. This
8.95-mile
route is great for families as there are lots of interesting things to see along the way.
Where is the best place to start the Monsal Trail?
Start at
Hassop Station, north of Bakewell
via the B6001 or A619 and A6020 from Baslow.
Can you cycle the Monsal Trail?
The Monsal Trail is a traffic free route for walkers, cyclists, horse riders and wheelchair users
through some of the Peak District’s most spectacular limestone dales. The trail runs along the former Midland Railway line for 8.5 miles between Blackwell Mill, in Chee Dale and Coombs Road, at Bakewell.
Is the Monsal Trail Circular?
A circular walk along the Monsal Trail visiting Miller’s Dale, Monsal Dale and Monsal Head before returning via Taddington
. The route starts from the car park at the Miller’s Dale Viaduct. Follow the trail east through the lovely Miller’s Dale with views of the River Wye.
Where do you park to cycle the Monsal Trail?
There is paid parking at
Bakewell Station, Hassop Station, Monsal Head and Millers Dale
. As there is a very slight incline towards the Chee Dale end (Buxton), we recommend cycling slightly uphill first, to then zoom back down when you turn back around. So your best bets are parking at Bakewell or Hassop.
How hilly is the Monsal Trail?
The route is flat, though if you’re heading from Bakewell you’ll be cycling up a very slight incline
, so just bear in mind that it will be quicker when you cycle back.
Who owns Monsal Trail?
In 2016,
Derbyshire Dales District Council and the Peak District National Park Authority
– which owns the Monsal Trail – created a support program to encourage local businesses to become more “cyclist friendly.” Since launching, the Pedal Peak for Business program has provided more than £100,000 in grants.
What surface is the Monsal Trail?
The trail is mostly level, with a gradual slope downwards from the north, to Bakewell in the south. The surface is
a smooth sandy/crushed stone type finish
, hence it can get a little dusty in dry weather, and be prepared to rinse down a clogged up bike in very wet conditions.
What is at Monsal Head?
Iconic Monsal Head is where the impressive
Headstone Viaduct
, which forms part of the Monsal Trail, straddles the verdant Monsal Dale and the River Wye meanders aimlessly through. This short and circular Monsal Head walk takes you past all these highlights!
Can you walk over Monsal viaduct?
Here’s a lovely short walk from Monsal Head with stunning views down to the valley of Monsal Dale and Monsal Trail over the viaduct. This walk begins from Monsal Head where you can enjoy the views down to the valley including the impressive viaduct.
How long does the Tissington Trail take?
The trail is 13 miles in total and should take an average walker
2.5 hours
with stops along the way. If cycling is more your sport of choice, expect the trail to take just over an hour. View the Tissington Trail map here.
