Full directions
Click below for a pdf of the route with detailed instructions, photos and a map, as well as links to car parks and public transport. A walking app GPX is also available.
Walk details
Length: 7mls | Av. time: 3.05hrs | Ascent: 1063ft
Start: Bakewell Bridge car park | Google Map
Walk description, map & GPX | Download
This is one of my favourite walks from Bakewell; crossing the Monsal Trail and heading up through the trees beyond the golf course to reach Calton Lees before dropping down to walk across wide meadows beside the River Derwent, passing Chatsworth House on the opposite bank, and returning through the picture postcard village of Edensor.
There are a couple of sections near the start and end through woodland that can get muddy and difficult during autumn and winter, or after a lot of rain, so walking shoes or boots are often good idea.
The route doesn’t reach Chatsworth House, but it’s just a short detour over the old bridge to visit this magnificent stately home. It’s fairly expensive to visit the house and gardens, but you can walk for free up to the Hunting Tower on the slopes behind, and explore some great walks through the woodland.
Above: The graveyard behind Edensor Church is worth a visit. The Cavendish family plot is at the far left corner. As well as various Dukes and Ducessses of Devonshire, there’s a memorial to US President John Kennedy’s sister, Kathleen, who married the 10th duke’s eldest son (inset).
There’s plenty of opportunity for refreshments along the walk, including cafes at Calton Lees Garden Centre and Chatsworth House. As well as a popular tearoom beside Edensor Church. And even more choice if you explore the charming town of Bakewell.
Bakewell can get very busy on weekends and school holidays. Alternative starting points are the paid-for carparks at either Calton Lees or Chatsworth House. The nearest train stations are Matlock and Buxton, with regular bus services from both.
Click here for full step-by-step instructions, photos, map and GPX file.
Route photos
Stages 1-6 of the route. Click any to enlarge and scroll through.
Relive video
Click to play and use the expand option to view in full-screen. More Monsal Trail Relives.