Walk down the stairs in either direction to meet the Monsal trail below. Best time to visit: This area is very beautiful in the evening. Past High Dale, I eventually . Your personal data will be used to support your experience throughout this website, to manage access to your account, and for other purposes described in our privacy policy. Great river spots for the dogs to have a swim and cool off & some wonderful views. Interactive map of the Monsal Head Walk. Find parking charges, opening hours, postcode and a parking map of Millers Dale B6049 as well as other car parks, street parking, pay and display, parking meters and private garages for rent in High Peak. Walk Time: 5-6 hours Difficulty: Distance: 13.2 miles (23 km) Trig Points Bagged: Wardlow Hay Cop Behind this shelter there is a gate that leads to another path. Peak District National Park has 45 car parks, 18 of which have a Pay & Display system. Theres also an ice-cream van here (cards accepted), which is usually open weekends and school holidays. These stables are steeped in history and have been here for over 200 years, way before the railway was built when it used to be a coaching inn. You now follow the path under the viaduct and continue on the path next to the river. Follow this path down to the right. website by w brand studio, newport beach, CARPARK, Inc.CARPARK, Inc. 6541 Hollywood Blvd #203, Los Angeles, CA 90028 - (855) 600-PARK, copyright 2021 carpark inc.   Wyedale a ten minute walk along a bridleway to the Trail. Join our Peak District walks Facebook page, follow us on Instagram andTwitter for inspiration. Its a great way to get them engaged with the walk and gives them a sense of responsibility. Car parking address:Monsal Head car park, Ashford in the Water, Bakewell, DE45 1NL Google maps. It's totally free and you get so much more by joining in! Its owned by the same company that runs the Stable Bar nearby and they have seven boutique rooms on offer for guests. Other former railway lines now open to the public as traffic-free trails can be found at the High Peak Trail andTissington Trail, with bike hire centres also servicing these routes. This Monsal Head walk enables you to see the viaduct and valley from above, to cross the viaduct and see the Headstone bridge and then to walk underneath the viaduct. Please note 'Peak District Walks' accepts no liability for any injuries or accidents resulting from walking our routes. Or if you fancy making the walk longer you can add an extra out and back to explore more of the beautiful Derbyshire Dale, Monsal Dale. . Were so unfit but thank you so much. Ah so lovely to hear Im glad you had a wonderful walk in the rain! privacy policy While we make efforts to validate and update the pricing information, pricing and rates change frequently and so the information may not be the most current. South Park Group, SEAN HASHEM There are benches on the lower viewpoint and from here you can see the Monsal Viaduct, the River Wye, and the Monsal Dale Valley. The prices for parking: There is also a small short stay car park at the front of the pub overlooking Monsal Dale. The car park machine was cash only, although it does mention another machine that takes card payments. Copyright Third Eye Traveller 2023 | Disclosure & Privacy Policy, Monsal Head overnight parking charge 1. The way soon crosses the first of a series of viaducts before plunging into Chee Tor Tunnel. After the viaduct keep going straight ahead across the fields keeping the river to your left. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. Once across youll see a some buildings, walk past these then immediately after the building, turn right and head down the footpath alongside them. When you have finished exploring the tunnel walk across the viaduct taking in the stunning views. Start: Edale Car Park SK124853; ; pay and display Maps: - 1:25,000: Dark Peak W & E . 7. How to get to Thors Cave in the Peak District, How to get to the incredible Bamford Edge, How to find Robin Hoods Cave in Stanage Edge, A complete guide to Peakshole Water in Castleton, How to visit Little Johns Grave in Hathersage, A Harry Potter guide for Hardwick Hall aka Malfoy Manor, How to visit & cross Dovedale Stepping Stones, Best things to do in Ashford in the Water. Look out for Mandarin Ducks as they are often in this area. Near Bamford Edge we also love Stanage Edge home to the REAL Robin Hoods cave. The site provides hot showers and washing facilities. Where is the best place to stay for the Monsal head walk? If youre after an epic family day out check out Chatsworth house with its awesome play park, farm and gardens. More information about our Privacy Policy. Starting from the main view point by the Monsal Head Hotel, follow the footpath down into the dale to Monsal Weir, then across the other side of the River Wye to walk along its banks and to walk right underneath the Headstone Viaduct. During peak hours 8am 6pm Up to 1 hour 1.50. Click the pins for more details. More information on the Peak District, including transport options, where to stay, best Peak District pubs + other useful resources. Monsal Head Car Park, Castlegate Lane, DE45 1NL Tideswell Dale Car Park, Buxton, SK17 8QH Wye Dale Car Park, Buxton, SK17 9TE Bumper, parked at the short-stay car park at Monsal Head. South Park Group, Los Angeles, TOM MEREDITH 1 2 hours. It can get quite muddy and slippy along here, so take care as you make your way downhill. If the lights go off because of a power failure there is a two hour emergency back up in place. Thank you so much. 5. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites., essential items to take on a family hike in the Peak District. Lightweight transport vehicles (also known as 'e-scooters' are notpermitted on our trails network). The nearest train stations are at Buxton and Matlock but would require a bus journey to an access point. Monsal Head is a viewpoint that lies high above the Monsal Trail and the Monsal Viaduct. Enjoy the waterfall. Weve just completed the short Monsal Head walk and your guide has been invaluable. Great great little route. You might like these circular walks. Beautiful scenic walk, nice and steady steep at some points For an EPIC view point dont miss Bamford Edge. Read more. So, you can visit all times of the year whenever you like! There are also public toilets located at the long stay car park at Monsal Head. Your email address will not be published. Turn right and walk across the grass, past the weir and the onto a dirt path. Ambassador Centres - Activities and Accommodation, FAQs - Badgers and Bovine Tuberculosis (bTB), FAQs - Wildlife Management and Wildlife Crime, 70 Years of the Peak District National Park, 56 day rule pop up camping and car parks, How to make a neighbourhood development order, Thornbridge Hall Enforcement Notice - Public Inquiry, Authority and Partnership work on Climate Change, Upper Derwent Valley Woodlands Regeneration Management Plan, How to achieve the Environmental Quality Mark. The trail runs along the former Midland Railway line for 8.5 miles between Blackwell Mill, in Chee Dale and Coombs Road, at Bakewell. This is a very popular area for hiking, running, and walking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Proposals for reinstatement of a railway on the route of the trail, Abseiling from Bridge 75 on the Monsal Trail. Monsal Head is a historic viewpoint and lookout in the Peak District National Park which sees thousands of tourists visit each year. (A) 2 Turn right down the stone steps. The Monsal Dale Viaduct is a fine example of Victorian engineering. If youre hiking in all weathers the Active OS maps are pretty good to have. The Monsal Head viewpoint came about with the introduction of the Midlands Railway in 1863 which connected London with Manchester. Start/finish: Monsal Head car park | Maps: OS Explorer OL24 - The Peak District, White Peak (1:25k scale) | Distance: 1.9 miles/3km | Ascent: 350ft/107m | Duration: 1 to 2 hours | Transport: None to start. Left click to hear in your web browser, or right click and choose 'Save Link As' to save to your computer or MP3 player. . Some lovely views over the River Wye but for me the man made constructions stole the show. The most iconic view of the dale is from Monsal Head viewpoint. Young children will enjoy the magic of the monsal valley and viaduct. DISTANCE OF WALK: 2.4km (1.5 miles)TYPE OF WALK: A circular walk, with a descent to the River Wye and a short steep ascent back up to the view point at the end. Monsal Head Hotel has parking, toilets and you can get a refreshment here before or after the hike. Distance 5.5 km Duration 2:43 h Ascent 194 m Descent 196 m A walk along Monsal Dale from Monsal Head car park. Nice little walk with a steep bit at the end, depending which way you walk it of course. I want to inspire you & turn your wildest travel dreams into a reality through my travel guides! Ashford in the Water, Derbyshire DE45 1NL, UK. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. 3. Very muddy and flooded but no problem with the right boots :), Nice stroll taking time to appreciate our world. 6. Please follow us and use the #peakdistrictkids hashtag so we can share with our wider community. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. The Monsal Head Stable Bar is a popular pub at Monsal Head that has a cosy seating area indoors and a large pub garden too! People with dogs however need to be more mindful of the signs saying to keep dogs on the lead. It is the only National Park in the UK to be designated primarily because of its spectacular coastline, which covers more than 300 kilometres. Today, its considered an attractive part of the view but back then it caused a scandal. Children will need careful supervision along this section. Theres also a little river-beach to play on just past the weir. At Monsal Head, theres a pub (Monsal Head Hotel + Pub) with outdoor seating area, a cafe (Hobbs Cafe) and lastly, the all important ice-cream stand! Want more ideas for family walks?Best Family Walks in the Peak DistrictPram Friendly Peak District walksToddler walks in the Peak DistrictAlso, come and join our friendly Peak District Kids Facebook Group for any questions or to share photos of your walks. This is at no extra cost to you. Ask us any questions in the comments or via our social media. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park (Parc Cenedlaethol Arfordir Penfro) in Wales was established in 1952. 6541 Hollywood Blvd #203, Los Angeles, CA 90028, copyright 2017 carpark inc. Parking fees vary depending on location and length of stay so please bring at least 5 in coins to ensure you have the right change. A link to set a new password will be sent to your email address. We stayed at Park House Campsite in 2012 having read generally good reviews. The Monsal Trail is one of the most popular cycling and walking trails in the Peak District National Park and its easily accessible from this viewpoint. Keep walking a little further and then cross the river at the bridge. Lovely views. Short walk, great view from the start overlooking the valley and viaduct, and of course great to take small detour along the tunnel. Although this is a private road and not accessible for car, there is a public right of way for pedestrians along this road. Filter. For specific fees and more information about car parks and parking permits, please visit https://www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/visiting/planning-your-visit/parking. Perhaps print out a copy for the kids to follow the step-by-step directions and/or photos? The monsal trail goes through the tunnel. Take ALL your rubbish home to dispose of and remember close gates (as you found them). Now 2 hours. Start location: Park at Monsal Head. (Less of a strenuous climb). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Click here to join the Peak District Kids Facebook Group. Read more here. Once youre over the other side, there is a small beach area of the river for the kids to play in the mud/sand to the left. Once youve finished admiring the views from the top, step forward near the walking sign over the road. At the beginning and end of the walk there are some steep sections of trail that are not suitable for prams or wheelchairs. Walk highlights: Monsal Dale valley, River Wye and views of the viaduct from above and below. Do check out our top tips for hiking with young kids, as well as our essential items to take on a family hike in the Peak District. HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE: Without kids this would be a 1 hour walk, but with young kids, allow a good 1.5-2 hours.STILE: One squeeze stile. Review of Park House Campsite. Residents of the area are allowed to purchase permits exempting . The path now gradually begins to incline and youll get some more beautiful views of the viaduct on your right. TOTAL ASCENT: 85 metresPUBLIC TOILETS: There are toilets at the Monsal Head car park (cash or online donation to use). Monsal Head - Long Stay Castlegate Lane Derbyshire Dales DE45 1NJ +44 1629 761333 http://www.derbyshiredales.gov.uk/community-a-living/parking/car-park-charges - Advertisement - Prices Mon-Sun - All day 1 Hour 1.50 2 Hours 2.50 3 Hours 3.80 4 Hours 5.00 24 Hours 6.00 (ends at 08:00) Overnight 1.00 (In after 18:00 Out by 08:00) Opening Times Facilities: Public toilets in the car park and pub at Monsal Head Hotel. Read more. Did you know that this viewpoint is on the B6465 road and from here you can drive down to Little Longstone which is by the River Wye? You will soon see stunning views to your left over Monsal Dale. We have a guide with what to do, who you need to call and also some useful kit that should be in your backpack. Monsal Trail Bike Hire If you don't have your own bike and are looking for bike hire along the trail, you're in luck! Its only a short drive from popular locations like Bakewell and Ashford in the Water and a stop here can be squeezed into the very shortest of Peak District itineraries. website by w brand studio, newport beach, Valet Bus services from Nottingham, Derby and Manchester operate along the A6, the nearest main road to the Monsal Trail, with stops at Bakewell town centre, Ashford in the Water, White Lodge, Taddington, Blackwell Turn and Wye Dale (limited service). Surprising experience. There is also a layby for FREE roadside parking on Castlegate Lane (B6465) a few hundred meters north of Monsal Head. This is at no extra cost to you. There is a pay and display long stay car park located behind the pub with plenty of parking. Car parking can be paid using the 'contactless' button and then using a card if you haven't got change. , Your email address will not be published. We would like more people to use their bicycles for travel to and from work, for shopping and for leisure without using their cars. I loved the cherry Bakewell flavour! Services, Event Black Hill Guided Walk with an Introduction to Map Reading, Stanage Edge Guided Walk (+ Webinar) with an Introduction to OS Maps, Mam Tor + Cave Dale Guided Walk with an Introduction to Map Reading, River Dove From Alstonefield | 4-Mile Route, Magpie Mine Walk (+ Monsal Dale) From Ashford-in-the-Water | 8-Mile Route, click here to get them straight to your inbox, Top 10 Highest Peak District Hills + Mountains, Damflask Reservoir Easy Walk From Low Bradfield | 4-Mile Route, Reservoir Walk (Plus Emlin Ridge + Kirk Edge Trigs) | From Low Bradfield | 10-Mile Route, River Derwent Short Walk From Hathersage | 5-Mile Route, 9 Trig Walks For Trig Baggers (Walks with Multiple Trigs). Its located in the White Peak area of the national park in the county of Derbyshire. Time for an ice-cream from the van or a pint in the Stable Bar. Monsal Trail: Monsal head carpark - See 1,803 traveller reviews, 1,154 candid photos, and great deals for Bakewell, UK, at Tripadvisor. Read more here. Although the hill has been here since time immemorial, this valley became industrialised in the Victorian era due to the Midlands Railway that was opened in 1863. Ask us any questions in the comments or via our social media. Or, you can head into the pretty town of Bakewell to try the famous Bakewell Pudding or a Bakewell Tart. If weve helped you please help us keep producing quality content by SHARING The Backpacking Family with your friends. 7.55. Monsal Dale weir. Thank you so much. Open from Jan to Dec. Council car park .. 1 from 6 til 8 . There are community toilets available at the start of the walk at Monsal Head car park (the block near the entrance). The amazing thing about this viewpoint is that you get some of the best views in all of the Peak District National Park but you dont have to walk miles to see them! It's located in the White Peak area of the national park in the county of Derbyshire. As you approach the Headstone Viaduct, you will spot people cycling along the top, this is the Monsal Trail. Took about 40 minutes. PARKING: Pay and display car park at Monsal Head car park, next to the Monsal Head Hotel. Click here for Google Map point on your phone. Turn right to follow the field path towards Monsal Head. Find out what maps you will need for your trip here. This is the shortest of all the monsall trails I know of but still includes the best parts of the tunnel We have a guide with what to do, who you need to call and also some useful kit that should be in your backpack. Option to extend walk Instead of right, turn left after youve crossed the bridge and walk alongside the river for about 1 km then returning the same route. Other things to see and do near Monsal Head. Monsal Dale from Monsal Head Car Park Difficulty easy. For over two decades we have prioritized guests' safety and security with top customer service. Pretty steep at the end, we chose the path on the left to start was a nice steady decline. Follow the road around to the left of the car park, to the Monsal Head viewpoint. As you approach the base of the Headstone Viaduct, climb through the stone squeeze stile that takes you right underneath. Here you will find details on how to get to the start of the walk at Monsal Head, route information, map, GPX file, plus a detailed step by step guide of the walk. There is a pay and display long stay car park located behind the pub with plenty of parking. If you are a competent wild swimmer, there is also a deep spot closer to the waterfall that is fun for a little dip. The valley is gone, and the Gods with it; and now, every fool inBuxtoncan be inBakewellin half an hour, and every fool in Bakewell at Buxton; which you think a lucrative process of exchange you Fools everywhere John Ruskin, 1871. If you purchase through these, Peak District Walks earn from the qualifying links. https://www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/visiting/planning-your-visit/parking. 1.5-mile route. Highlights: This Monsal Head Walk route allows you to see the viaduct from above, cross it and then walk under it. Be careful with your footing as there are tree roots and stumps that stick up along the footpath and there is a steep drop to the right. The route is closer to 1.5 miles, so a great short loop, however you do have the walk back uphill so be sure to add on extra time on the way back! Love the walks in the Peak District? Beautiful scenery all round. There are no plans to extend existing car parks or build new ones. Your Directions were easy to follow and spot on. You cant really take a bad photo of the Monsal Head viewpoint but I would definitely say that the best time to visit would be at sunrise or in the morning time. Or visit the Peak District Kids shop. The Stables Bar next to the Monsal Head Hotel is a characterful rustic pub for a drink and bite to eat after your walk. From Monsal Head car park, down to Monsal Weir on the River Wye then loop back under the viaduct back to the top. Also, this is where youll head out on the Monsal Trail walk by heading down the steps to the path below. Peak District Walks is a FREE online resource. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas. Enjoy this 1.6-mile loop trail near Bakewell, Derbyshire. Check the weather for your walk location and hills. This well lit route allows cyclists and walkers to enjoy the tunnel section of the trail that links monsal dale to Bakewell. We have a route guide to get to the waterfall from Edale. Bamford edge affords amazing views over Lady Bower reservoir. Continue along this footpath for 800 metres. Top tips - Read our useful guides onhiking tips here. 1. Here are all the things to do in Monsal Head. Quite steep on the way back but as long as you stagger it, it will be fine. Third Eye Traveller participates in various affiliate marketing programs. If you park in this layby there is a small path (on the other side of the wall) that leads back to Monsal Head. Please keep the Peak District beautiful and respect everyone who uses the park. 8. 9. From the footbridge, turn right and follow the footpath towards the viaduct, with the River Wye on your right, soon walking through a wooden gate. Stage 1 Monsal Head to Monsal Dale Weir, Stage 2 Monsal Dale Weir to Monsal Head. Awesome short trail to see Monsal Head and the Weir. As a result of my CarPark experience, he and his top managers have created signage transparency for both consumers and his staff. There are also annual and weekly parking permits available. Monsal Head car park Most of the route was opened to the public in 1981 but four former railway tunnels had to remain closed due to safety reasons, with public footpaths taking people around them. All printable downloads are 1.50 each. For specific fees and more information about car parks and parking permits, please visit. The views are stunning but take care on the walk up or down to the viaduct, as its a little rocky and steep in places. Follow the path up to the left. I think Autumn would be an incredible time to see this valley in all different shades of ambers and reds! 14667703, info@peakdistrictkids.co.uk | work with us. There are some nice ways to extend the Monsal Head walk. As its so easy to get to, you can expect tourists and coaches to stop here constantly throughout the day. Regardless the Midlands Railway powered on until 1968 and the buildings here, like Hobbs Cafe Tearoom, served the railway workers until it closed. Just before you reach Monsal Weir you will walk through a wooden gate. Be prepared you need to be able to do a little rock climbing to get into the cave itself. Click here for our recommended paddling and wild swimming spots in the Peak District. Have you got the bottle to help create a plastic free Peak District? We had a brilliant time and will be back! After around 500m on this road section you will see a small private road branching off to the right. The path then continue across a second bridge, with another small gap to squeeze through! . Thank you very much . Legacy Partners, JACK RAVAN Peak District National Park has 45 car parks, 18 of which have a Pay & Display system. Lots of seating outside and benches overlooking the gorgeous view of Monsal Head. Really enjoyed your walk from Monsal Head to the viaduct. The sunsets behind this viewpoint and so the sun will be directly in your camera in the afternoon. Plenty of parking. Peak District National Park has 45 car parks, 18 of which have a Pay & Display system. Its run by Hulleys of Baslow and they have buses that run back and forth every two hours. You can also head over to the spa town of Buxton with its gorgeous crescent, Pavilion Gardens, and Solomons Temple. Ambassador Centres - Activities and Accommodation, FAQs - Badgers and Bovine Tuberculosis (bTB), FAQs - Wildlife Management and Wildlife Crime, 70 Years of the Peak District National Park, 56 day rule pop up camping and car parks, How to make a neighbourhood development order, Thornbridge Hall Enforcement Notice - Public Inquiry, Authority and Partnership work on Climate Change, Upper Derwent Valley Woodlands Regeneration Management Plan, How to achieve the Environmental Quality Mark. Use postcode DE45 1BU to get the central Bakewell car parks. Its also quite close to Bakewell, Buxton, and a short drive from the popular Chatsworth House if you wanted to stop here after your visit. Thank you for engaging with us and helping us improve. Youll see a walking sign pointing to either side of the steps and from here, there are some amazing angles for photos. Here is a map with the locations of each car park. This trail has a few different starting points, making it easier or longer. at the footpath signs with the ice cream booth to your left take the path to the right . Walk to the left of the buildings and through the gate. 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. The path is narrow and gradually continue downhill, through another gate and then you reach the River Wye and Monsal Weir. On allPeak District family walksits a good idea to have an Ordnance Survey paper map with you, even if you have your phone on you. Contact us for a more in-depth presentation and a no-obligation quote.