Monsal Trail
Location - Monsal Trail: Peak District National Park, Millers Dale Station, Buxton, SK17 8SN - (what3words location)
Distance (around) - variable distances, depending on your choice (overall 8.5 miles)
Terrain - flat and stable most of the way (Chee Dale is a very steep hill)
Points to note -
Parking available, fees vary
Toilets including Changing Places (radar key needed)
Cafe facilities are available
Picnic areas available but no BBQ
Located in the Derbyshire Peak District the unique Monsal Trail is a 8.5 mile walk (can also be cycled and horse ridden) constructed from railway tunnels and viaducts initially built by Midlands Railway in 1863, linking London to Manchester, before being taken over by Peak District National Park.
There are various entry points to the trails, giving a variety of distances which can be walked. The car parks are pay and display and allow access to the trail at different points. We parked at the Millers Dale Station, which had toilets - including a changing places toilet and a cafe, with picnic benches outside. We set off straight away, taking our sandwiches with us (Famous Five esq), the path was extremely smooth and easily accessible, going towards the Chee Dale, the entry to the path is right by Millers Dale Station. Dogs are allowed, on lead, as there is possibility of livestock, and also a few cyclists so keeping Betty safe was priority.
Close to Millers Dale Station the first thing to come across were the Limekilns, huge tall ‘walls’ beside the path, very interesting and somewhat overbearing. Then as you go along the path in the same direction you begin to come across the tunnels, we went through ? In total (there are others if you go the opposite direction from Millers Dale Station), all lit during the day to allow you to safely walk through, the tunnels can be somewhat windy and that adds to the uniqueness of the experience. Through the tunnels you can see the intracicies of how they were used in the past, for railway tunnels, looking up the structure is so unique with the curved structure made from the bricks, all blackened by usage over time. Walking along you then come up to a bridge, going over the River Wye (I know), this is the moment we took time to rest and eat our sandwiches, seemingly having walked quite a distance and wanting to rest and enjoy the experience. As usual, Betty had her bowl of water and a few treats to keep up her energy. Walking along the bridge was remarkable, unfortunately I wasn’t able to view over the side due to the height of the walls either side, understandably this is how the viaduct was built all those years ago, and in today’s thoughts, would be a safety aspect to remain so high. However, over this bridge we did see a number of abseilers, you can find more information on this if you’re inclined to do so on the Peak District website. We then continued along until we came across Chee Dale, a lovely picturesque area with a small bridge over the river, and a little rest cabin. In hindsight I’m not sure about this decision, but nonetheless in the moment we went down a very, very steep hill, there we had another rest with a warm drink, bit of cake and all just admired the view. Betty taking another chance to rest and bark at passing people. After a little while, we went back up the steep hill, and returned they way we came, back through the tunnels, admiring the views and taking in the wonderful surroundings. Back to Millers Dale Station where we had a much deserved ice cream!
At all points the paths were plenty wide enough for my scooter and someone to walk at the side, with Betty on a long lead with opportunity to sniff around and run ahead a little. The paths were also very flat and good solid ground underfoot, making it suitable for the scooter, they were also relatively flat. The only issue would be Chee Dale, however going down was very much a choice.
All of the site is also very much a wildlife haven, so many different sections which will provide a wide range of birds, flowers and insects.
Although we went about 7 mile, we did only explore half of the trail, going in the other direction would have likely opened up a whole different set of views, including the remaining tunnels.
It is definitely one of the most unique places to visit, and I would hope to visit again someday.
Tip - take a picnic to enjoy in the surroundings
