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Details

Experience one of the Peak District's most rewarding circular walks on this route from the charming village of Monyash. The walk combines natural splendour with industrial heritage, from the cascading waters of Monsal Dale Weir and the impressive five-arch Headstone Viaduct to the haunting ruins of Magpie Mine and the historic Monsal Trail. Along the way, you'll traverse Deep Dale Nature Reserve, cross the picturesque Sheepwash Bridge at Ashford in the Water, and enjoy panoramic views from Monsal Head, one of the most photographed spots in the Peak District. This walk requires good fitness but rewards with varied terrain and constantly changing vistas. The route ends back at Monyash where The Bulls Head awaits for anyone seeking refreshments.

📍 Meeting Location & Time

🥾 Walk Overview

  • Distance: 11 miles (17.7 km)
  • Elevation Gain: 1,075 ft (328 m)
  • Duration: 5-6 hours
  • Difficulty: Intermediate
  • Route Type: Circular
  • Walk Leader: Ben

🐇🐢 Pace & Fitness Requirements
This is an intermediate walk intended for those in good physical condition. You should be comfortable maintaining a steady pace throughout.
Please note that the group may be unable to wait for significantly slower walkers, so it’s important to be prepared.
While you’re welcome to walk at your own pace, be aware that the route may take longer than expected if walking slower than average. If you find the walk too difficult, there are several shortcuts available to help you complete the route. However, if you choose to take a shortcut, you’ll need to navigate independently, as the group leader will continue with the planned full route.

⛰️ Route Highlights

  • Deep Dale Nature Reserve
  • Monsal Dale Rapids
  • Monsal Dale Weir
  • Headstone Viaduct, Monsal Dale
  • Monsal Head
  • Monsal Trail
  • Sheepwash Bridge, Ashford in the Water
  • Little Shacklow Wood
  • Magpie Mine (Ruins)
  • The Bulls Head pub, Monyash

📲 Route Links

🚆 Public Transport

  • Sadly, there is no easy public transport to Monyash.

🌦️ Weather & Clothing
The weather on the hills can be highly variable, windy, and cold.
Please wear sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good grip to handle muddy and slippery terrain. Avoid flat trainers or jeans.
Dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions:

  • Moisture-wicking base layers
  • Insulating mid-layers
  • Waterproof outer layers

If it's sunny, don’t forget your sunglasses.
Useful links for weather forecasts:

🎒 What to Bring

  • Sturdy walking boots or shoes with good grip (no flat trainers)
  • Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing (avoid jeans)
  • Sufficient food and water for the entire day
  • Waterproof jacket and warm layers
  • Sunglasses
  • A comfortable backpack
  • Optional: hiking poles, hat, torch (or headlamp), camera, power bank, phone (or watch) with the route downloaded

🐶 Dogs
Fit and friendly dogs are welcome! Please keep them on a lead near livestock. There are cows and sheep in the fields during this walk.

📢 Notes
This event may be cancelled or rescheduled if weather conditions are unsafe. Updates will be posted in the comments, so please enable email notifications for any changes.

📌 Bookings

  • Please only book if you genuinely intend to attend.
  • If you reserve a spot but can no longer make it, please cancel your booking or let the organiser know. It only takes a moment to update your booking, and it really helps everyone: the organiser, the walk leader, and your fellow attendees.

⛑️ Disclaimer
You are fully responsible for your own safety, health, fitness, and equipment. The group has no insurance. By RSVPing, you agree to these terms.

📬 Questions?
Feel free to comment below or message the organiser privately.

Events in Monyash, GB
Adventure
Hiking
Outdoors
Landscape Photography
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