Monsal Head and Monsal Dale

About

Monsal Dale is a wonderful example of calming Derbyshire countryside - a place where you can walk along the river, take in the landscape and sit by a weir and have a picnic.

Monsal Head, directly above Monsal Dale, is one of the most famous and photographed viewpoints in Derbyshire. The combination of the winding River Wye at the bottom of the steep dale, the famous Headstone viaduct, Fin Cop hill and Hob's House cave are all elements that make a walk through Monsal Dale or the view from Monsal Head outstanding. At the Monsal Head view point there are benches where you can sit and enjoy the view or watch the sunset and also a nearby pub at the Monsal Head Hotel.

The dale itself is for exploring on foot, with the Monsal Trail crossing the old railway viaduct providing another fantastic viewpoint above the riverside meadows.

This railway viaduct, also known as Headstone Viaduct, was opened in 1863, despite being faced with criticism at the time. It was used for 100 years and has now become a much-loved addition to the Derbyshire landscape. It’s now used as a cycle path and footpath so everyone can enjoy the peaceful countryside without having to worry about traffic.