Headstone Tunnel, Monsal Trail

A first walk of any distance for almost 6 months. Given the amount of rain recently I suggested the Monsal Trail, a 9 mile long former railway line from Bakewell to Cheedale, nr Buxton. You may have seen it on the Railway Walks series with Julia Bradbury.

Since she walked it they have re-opened all of the tunnels, providing a good surface and lighting. The archway on the right is a small refuge for workers when the trains came through the tunnel.

We walked up and back completing almost 18 miles. We both realised we have lost some of our fitness, though it was great to blow the cobwebs off.

Just a point for anyone thinking of walking the route. At this time of year the sun rarely shines on the trail as it sits in Wye Dale on the southern side of the valley. There were icy conditions underfoot, and it did not thaw at all in the time we were on the trail.