Former railway walking route / BAKEWELL

Monsal Trail from Bakewell Station

Join the former railway at Bakewell Station for a traffic-free walk with an easy turnaround. Heading towards Hassop gives a manageable first taste of the trail without making distant tunnels or viaducts the goal. This record starts at Bakewell, keeping the approach and return part of a town-based day.

Surfaced Monsal Trail beside trees and a building at the Bakewell end of the route — Photo: Peter McDermott

Before you go

Bakewell Station to Hassop Station is about one mile each way on the trail. The famous tunnels and Monsal viaduct are farther on, so do not promise them as a quick extra to a short walk.

The practical details

Where to find it: Former Bakewell Station, Station Road, Bakewell DE45 1GE
Directions and arrival information ↗
Tickets and booking: Walking on the trail is free; parking and cycle hire are separate. There is no operating train service at Bakewell Station. The whole trail is 8½ miles one way, far longer than this suggested section. Check current notices for maintenance and allow daylight; facilities at Hassop have their own opening times.
Access and getting around: The National Park identifies an accessible ramp at Bakewell Station and relatively level trail surfaces. Reaching the station from town involves an uphill approach, so plan that separately. Walkers share the route with cycles and horses; check current works and choose a distance suited to your equipment and energy.
Official access information ↗
Visiting with children: Keep children close when cycles pass and leave room for other users. An out-and-back towards Hassop can be shortened at any point. Bring water and snacks; the station entrance is not a promise of café or toilet facilities at that exact location.

Practical information checked 15 September 2026. Confirm anything essential to your visit with the venue.

Make it part of your day

Allow 1–2 hours, plus town approach for the visit, plus travel and breaks. This is a suggested planning allowance; opening times, access and availability may affect your plans.

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