The Peak District: Monsal Head and Dale Loop
Driving towards Monsal Head from Bakewell is undoubtably pretty but you aren’t prepared for the sights ahead of you as you turn into the car park. Parking in the long stay car park you get a sense of what might be over the wall but leave your vehicle and take a few steps towards the picnic area and it dawns on your eyes that you are at a spectacular vista that is generous with the river Wye and the viaduct.
I arrived after a walking afternoon in Bakewell and nor me and Monty were game for too much exploration but having found a park up nearby we headed back in the morning as the temptation to dive into the landscape was too overpowering. Monsal Head is a much loved spot in the Peak District and you can see why with it’s incredible but peaceful views.
The loop takes just over an hour and you will need some good footwear and if you use them, some poles for stability along the narrower paths as tree roots jut out the ground and the steps can be very steep. There is some descending and some climbing and note some of the passing gates are somewhat narrow.
The viaduct - named Headstone Viaduct - was built in 1863 despite much protest but became a very well used railway line for over 100 years and is now used as a popular cycle and foot path making up part of the Monsal Trail.
Starting Point
Starting at Monsal Head long stay car park head out towards the roads past the public toilets turning left towards the short stay car park. Standing at the top of the road that heads down to Cressbrook (which is worth driving through if you have the time!) at the footpath signs with the ice cream booth to your left take the path to the right adjacent to the descending road. Take the path all the way down (watch your step!) to the farm and there is a small bridge that crosses the river.
Take the bridge over the river marvelling how peaceful it is one side and how it rushes the other and turn left to take the dale path underneath the viaduct. Once under the viaduct and through a gate the path will open out onto lush green land - you’ll soon start to hear the waterfall and keep on heading towards it. Once at the waterfall there is a small bridge just a little further on which you can cross and turn left. You’ll start your slow and steady climb along a narrow, wooded path all the way back up to Monsal Head, rewarded with beautiful views and a drink in the pub afterwards.