The Monsal Trail is one of the Peak District’s most iconic routes. Once a railway line, it now offers a stunning traffic-free trail perfect for walking, cycling and running. It’s also home to a weekly Parkrun, a timed 5K running event open to everyone, whether you run, jog, walk, volunteer or cheer from the sidelines.
Starting and finishing at Hassop Station, the parkrun route follows a flat and scenic path through the countryside along the Monsal Trail. After your parkrun, head into the nearby market town of Bakewell to reward yourself with a famous Bakewell tart. The town is full of independent cafes, pubs, restaurants, and shops to explore. Or you can head up the trail to see the breathtaking views from the Monsal Trail viaduct.
Black Rocks in Wirksworth is another great location in the Peak District that holds weekly Parkruns on Saturdays at 9 am. The course starts and finishes from the old railway boundary marker post, located next to the gate from the main Black Rocks car park and is entirely traffic-free trail paths.
Along the 5K route you’ll run along the High Peak Trail with stunning views out across the Matlock Gorge, as well as passing historic buildings such as the National Stone Centre, and the High Peak Railway Engine House. After the event, join others in grabbing a post parkrun coffee at The Quarry Cafe at the National Stone Centre.
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