Welcome to the Monsal Trail. The walks in this book will guide you along the length of the trail and around many of the surrounding footpaths and bridleways, exploring the area and introducing you to some of the Peak District’s most beautiful, tranquil and historic limestone dales.
The Monsal Trail follows an 8.5-mile section of the former Manchester,
Buxton, Matlock and Midlands Junction Railway, opened by the Midland
Railway in 1863 to link Manchester with London.
The line was closed in
1968 and remained derelict for a number of years before being taken over
by the Peak District National Park and reopened as a walking route. The
recent renovation of the Chee Tor tunnels means that the entire stretch
of track is now accessible on foot, by bicycle, wheelchair and
pushchair.
Perhaps the most spectacular stretch of the trail is where it crosses
the Headstone Viaduct at Monsal Head, but there are equally impressive
views at places like Water-cum-Jolly Dale, and the four lit tunnels
which have an atmosphere all their own. The trail is easily
accessible from Bakewell Station at the south end and Wyedale at the
north, as well as from various points along its length. It passes
through places such as Hassop, Great Longstone, Monsal Dale, Cressbrook
and Litton, and runs close by Haddon Hall and Chatsworth, two of the
most
beautiful and historic stately homes in England.
Of course, the weather in the Peaks can be changeable and you are
advised to take sensible precautions with clothing and footwear. The
walks in this book vary in length and difficulty, with location, parking
information and detailed notes provided for each walk.
Whether you do
them all or pick and choose to suit your ability and the weather, this
book will provide a detailed and intimate guide to one of the most
fascinating and beautiful areas of Derbyshire.
Walk 1 - Bakewell Station and the Chatsworth Estate
Walk 2 - Bakewell Station, Haddon Hall and Lathkill Dale
Walk 3 - Hassop Station, Ashford in the Water and Bakewell
Walk 4 - Monsal Head, Little Longstone and Great Longstone
Walk 5 - Monsal Head and Monsal Dale
Walk 6 - Tideswell Dale, Miller’s Dale and Priestcliffe Lees
Walk 7- Tideswell, Monk’s Dale and Tideswell Dale
Walk 8 - Wyedale, Monk’s Dale and the Chee Tor tunnels
