Monsal Trail

Interesting route and very suitable for families as completely traffic free and relatively flat. Used to be an old railway line, so the gradients are very gentle. The compacted gravel surface is suitable for all bikes, too.

The tunnels on the old railway have been reopened and are lit so you can now walk or cycle through them. Bike lights aren't necessary but might be useful to stop other cyclists crashing into you!

The Monsal Trail is a traffic-free route that runs for 8.5 miles (13.7 km) between Blackwell Mill and Bakewell. The compacted gravel trail winds through picturesque limestone dales and long tunnels. A particular highlight is the Headstone Tunnel leading to Headstone Viaduct, where breathtaking views await.

The trail follows a section of the former Manchester, Buxton, Matlock and Midlands Junction Railway, which was built in 1863 to link Manchester with London. The line was closed in 1968 and remained unused for 12 years before being taken over by the Peak District National Park and transformed into a recreational route.

An excellent asset of the local cycling community to have this dedicated off-road cycle trail - even more exciting with the lit tunnels through the hillside and open viaducts to scale.

Lovely flat disused railway which is wonderful for cycling with the children. Plenty of opportunities to make into a loop or just cycle back the same way.

Great one-day ride for all the family. We started at the Bakewell end (parked at the farmers auction site/ cattle market) as the trail goes ever so slightly uphill from there. Doing it this way made it easier to cycle back as it's then slightly downhill. We then went into Bakewell for a bite to eat before setting off home.

Nice and quiet path.

The beautiful Monsal Trail, perfect riding for all the family lovely and flat, and lots to see.

This trail is a great way to get a long way in or out of Buxton when you've got tired legs or its windy and you want to avoid the hills. Just mind other road users on the A6 section leading up to it and mind other trails users if you are on the trail in busy times. Don't forget to say hi!

Interesting and easy ride for all ages, kids will love the tunnels.

Tunnels.

Brilliant gravel track. Busy with walkers with dogs, runners and other cyclists.

Great flat trail. Best at 8pm at night when there's no one else there!

Hard packed really wide trail that can be very busy with families, walkers dogs and cyclists. Absolutely stunning views and from the Buxton end it drops very slightly to Bakewell. The end of the trail passes Bakewell so if that is your end destination be sure to leave at the old Bakewell Station.

Start early and enjoy the route me Daughter has enjoyed (15) well worth it.

Great route for young children, can do as much or as little as your choose