Date: 10/11/2021

The Monsal Trail is a much-loved walking and cycling route, but pressure is building for trains to return, restoring a direct link between Derby and Manchester. Meandering across spectacular viaducts bridging limestone cliffs that drop into the River Wye, the Monsal Trail is considered one of the most scenic walking and cycling routes in the UK. With slopes covered in purple orchids and cowslips in May, and ox-eye daisies, bloody cranesbill and a lilac dusting of small scabious later in the year, the trail rewards walkers with stunning scenery across the Peak District.

External links

Peak District railway restoration plan divides local opinion

The Guardian

The Monsal Trail is a much-loved walking and cycling route, but pressure is building for trains to return, restoring a direct link between Derby and Manchester

Related images

Looking west into Monsal Dale on 17 June 2012 with the former Midland Railway viaduct crossing the River Wye in the centre. To the left the railway entered Headstone Tunnel while in the middle distance it passed through Monsal Dale station before entering first Cressbrook and then Litton Tunnels. Today over 8 miles of the former railway trackbed (including 6 tunnels) have been converted into a footpath for walkers, cyclists and horse riders
Location: Monsal Dale Viaduct
Company: Rowsley to Buxton Line (Midland Railway)
17/06/2012 John McIntyre

Looking east at the site of Monsal Dale station (closed to regular passenger service in 1959) in June 2012. The former down platform edge flagstones are still present as is a goods loading bank in the bushes on the right. The former up platform was constructed in wood and has long been removed. The double track main line has been replaced with the tarmac surface of the Monsal Way cycleway, footpath and bridleway.
Location: Monsal Dale
Company: Rowsley to Buxton Line (Midland Railway)
17/06/2012 John McIntyre

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Tags: x Monsal Trail x Buxton x Matlock x Manchester x Buxton x Matlock and Midlands Junction Railway x Midland Railway