Railway Tracks & Walking in the Peak District

Make your own way to our hotel in North Derbyshire where you will meet our experienced Tour Manager, before enjoying a relaxing evening with dinner.

This morning, our coach takes us to Wye Dale, the starting point for our walk along the Monsal Trail. Stretching from Wye Dale to Bakewell, this historic path incorporates the former Midland Railway line that once linked Matlock to Buxton. Dating back to the 1860s, the railway stopped operating in 1968. In 1981, an eight-mile stretch was repurposed for pedestrians. Expect to see old stations, former railway tunnels, and the majestic Monsal Viaduct – a scenic highlight of the midland line – as we walk along this trail. Our walk ends at Hassop Station, a structure built in 1862 for the Duke of Devonshire. Today, it serves refreshments to those who have finished this fantastic trail.

This is an easy 8-mile walk lasting approximately 4.5 hours. There is an option to shorten this – your Tour Manager and local guides will provide details if required.

We will return to our hotel by coach and enjoy a well-deserved dinner this evening.

Included Highlights

The Monsal Trail

After breakfast, we’ll travel by coach to Chatsworth Estate and begin our walk beside the River Derwent, heading towards Chatsworth House. For generations, this magnificent estate has been the residence of the Dukes of Devonshire. Its rich history traces back to 1549, when Elizabeth and William Cavendish acquired it for £600. Over the centuries, the house has undergone many transformations to become the remarkable structure we see today. Our path will then lead us to Edensor, a quaint village which houses St. Peter’s Church – the final resting place for many members of the Cavendish.

Our trail then leads us through New Piece Wood, offering spectacular views of the Chatsworth Estate. Continuing through the Calton Pastures, we will arrive at Manner Wood and then descend towards the delightful Bakewell – the only true town in the Peak District National Park. Be sure to try local delicacies such as the Bakewell tart or the more traditional Bakewell pudding whilst here.

This is an easy to moderate 5-mile walk lasting approximately 3 hours.

Then, we will return to our hotel by coach for our evening meal.

Included Highlights

Chatsworth Estate to Bakewell

The picturesque limestone countryside in the southern Peak District awaits today. After breakfast, the coach will take us to Alstonefield, marking the start of our walk. From here, we'll descend to Milldale and join the path alongside the serene River Dove, which marks the border between Derbyshire and Staffordshire. Our path then takes us through Dovedale, a limestone gorge nestled in the River Dove valley which is recognised as a National Nature Reserve due to the unique habitats and diverse wildlife it shelters. Our delightful riverside walk passes two caves, Dove Holes, and travels over Lover's Leap. Following the river across meadows to Coldwall Bridge, we’ll embark on the Manifold trail that leads to Ilam Park. Owned by the National Trust, the park boasts a quaint visitor centre and tearooms – a delightful place to finish our walk.

This is an easy 6.5-mile walk lasting approximately 3.5 hours. There is an option to shorten this – your Tour Manager and local guides will provide details if required.

Afterwards, we’ll travel by coach to Wirksworth station and board the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway. This picturesque train journey from Wirksworth to Duffield showcases the Peak District's unparalleled beauty.

Our coach will then collect us from Duffield and return us to our hotel for a relaxing final dinner.

Included Highlights

Walking in Dovedale Ecclesbourne Valley Railway

After breakfast, you are free to check out of the hotel and make your own way home at leisure.