Featuring views of a bridge reminiscent of those seen in Harry Potter, this  Peak District ramble will delight youngsters whilst remaining manageable for little legs during half-term.

The Monsal Trail represents a beloved Peak District attraction that traces the former Manchester to London Midland Railway line, which ceased operations during the 1960s.

Currently, its new role involves guiding ramblers along that historic route, through the tunnel and across the magnificent railway viaduct.

One recent  walker shared their experience on TripAdvisor writing: “For enthusiasts of railway walks, this route stands out as one of the finest in the UK.

It offers a captivating combination of stunning views, numerous tunnels, and impressive viaducts that showcase the area’s historical and engineering heritage.”

Along the way, there are three cafés-two conveniently located directly on the trail and one set slightly back-providing excellent opportunities to rest and refresh. “

The Trail

To reach the trail’s starting point, you’ll need to start at the back of Hassop Station, moving past the building and proceeding beneath the bridge. The route then continues as you navigate past Longstone Station, Headstone Tunnel and the Monsal Viaduct – all significant and characteristic features of this walk.

Two shorter tunnels precede your arrival at Miller’s Dale Station. To reach the trail’s conclusion, you’ll need to proceed along the viaducts, bearing left beneath the dramatic cliffs of Chee Tor towering spectacularly overhead – completing an 8.5-mile route.

What renders the walk particularly popular and ideal for a half-term excursion is its accessibility; it accommodates pushchairs, wheelchairs and young children.

The flat walk enables an effortless stroll through the dales, whilst numerous refreshment points dotted along the way make it perfect for youngsters requiring swift toilet stops or energy boosts.

Cafés

Before embarking on your adventure, you can visit Hassop Station for breakfast, all-day brunch, lunch and an abundance of sweet treats. Alternatively, you can simply pause for tea or coffee, energising yourself before a lengthy ramble through the Peak District at this conveniently positioned café.

It also features retail outlets for a leisurely browse, stocking books, accessories, homeware and more. Additionally, as it serves as the trail’s starting point for many visitors, they offer bicycle hire to tackle the route in style.

A customer said: “Visited the café three times in our week. By far the best place for breakfast, lunch, coffee and cake. Also the best Bakewell slice we had! The trail is stunning and such a great café to visit before and/or after was a great find we’ll be returning for!”

The refurbished Refreshment Room at Millers Dale Station provides another excellent stopping point for delicious refreshments throughout your journey. The building stands as a stunning homage to the trail’s railway legacy and provides ample space to relax or shelter from bad weather, complete with toilet facilities and refreshments.

One customer shared: “Stopped here for a bite to eat after a walk, absolutely wonderful café! The coffee was one of the best I’ve tried! Lovely customer service by all staff. Will 100% be going back.”.

Places to stay

The Monsal Trail lies within the Peak District’s core, with Bakewell positioned at one terminus and Blackwell Mill, near Buxton, at the opposite end.

This positioning makes it a favoured route for visitors exploring these principal town centres who wish to extend their ramble into a weekend break. Alternatively, it’s merely an hour’s drive from Derby’s city centre.

Bakewell hosts the famous Bakewell Tart, available in virtually every café and coffee house throughout the town. It also boasts numerous pubs offering more substantial fare following an extensive day’s hiking.

Buxton, conversely, is a spa town, celebrated for its natural spring water and status as Britain’s highest market town. Visitors typically choose weekend breaks here for spa therapies, rest and access to excellent walking and cycling routes.