Stories from the Trail
News, history and walks from along the Trail – from the latest on plans to reinstate the railway, to the stories behind its mills, mines and stations. The newest posts appear first.
Looking for something specific? Jump straight to all the Walks or the Historical sites.
Blackwell Mill Halt
Blackwell Mill Halt was built for railway workers living in the cottages close to the start of today’s Monsal Trail. Recent plans for a light railway could mean it emerges once again from the undergrowth.
The lost stones
A recent walk along Monk’s Dale set me wondering whether medieval monks really did once live and work in this wonderfully tranquil spot, seeking to escape the cares of the world.
The project begins…
A journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step, according to Mao Zedong. This little website is probably not quite on the same scale, but at least I’ve now made a start.
Places of interest
In this section I’ll try to explain the history of the many features and places both on and near to the Trail, including some wonderfully picturesque villages with their pubs, cafes and parking spots.