6k Run Erewash: Scenic Trail through Peak District Charm

Route Overview & Local Insights

Experience the quintessential beauty of the Derbyshire Dales with this 5.5km out-and-back route starting from the historic market town of Bakewell. This course takes you along the famous Monsal Trail, a decommissioned railway line that offers an exceptionally flat and accessible running surface, despite its location deep within the Peak District. With only 20 meters of total ascent, this is a rare opportunity for a PB-friendly effort or a relaxed recovery jog on well-maintained gravel and crushed stone. You will enjoy expansive views of the surrounding limestone hills and lush valleys, all while avoiding the technical terrain typical of the area.

The Monsal Trail is steeped in industrial heritage, originally serving as part of the Midland Railway that connected London to Manchester in the 1860s. As you depart from Bakewell Station—one of the few remaining Victorian stations along the line—you are running through a landscape that inspired the likes of Jane Austen and William Wordsworth. After your run, make sure to explore Bakewell itself; the town is world-renowned for its famous pudding, providing the perfect post-run carb replacement. This route is a favorite for local Erewash and Peak District runners who want to enjoy the dramatic scenery of the national park without the grueling vertical climbs.