The Midland Railway company faced significant local opposition from the Duke of Devonshire, who famously protested the viaduct's construction for spoiling the view.
The railway line was originally closed to passengers in 1959 and completely shut to freight in 1968.
Headstone Tunnel was closed to the public for over 40 years before a major engineering project restored it for the Monsal Trail.
The tunnels feature automatic motion-sensor LED lighting that activates as pedestrians or cyclists pass through.
The limestone crags around the viaduct are a well-known location for traditional rock climbing in the Peak District.
The viaduct was nearly demolished in the 1970s, but was preserved due to its significant architectural and historical industrial value.
Monsal Dale is a section of the Wye Valley in the Peak District featuring the Grade II listed Headstone Viaduct and the adjacent Headstone Tunnel. The viaduct, constructed in 1867 for the Manchester, Buxton, Matlock and Midlands Junction Railway, stands 40 feet high with five spans. The 487-yard-long Headstone Tunnel was reopened to the public in 2011 as part of the Monsal Trail. The area is characterized by steep limestone cliffs and the River Wye meandering below the viaduct. Walking the trail allows access through the former railway tunnels, which are now fitted with modern lighting. The landscape is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its limestone grassland and woodland flora.
The elevated viewpoint at Monsal Head for a panoramic landscape shot, or the riverbank directly beneath the central viaduct arch.
Bring a waterproof jacket, as the tunnels often have persistent ceiling drips even on sunny days.
Wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the steep descent from Monsal Head if you intend to view the viaduct from the valley floor.
If cycling, ensure your bike lights are functional, as the tunnel lighting is designed for pedestrians and may be dim for fast-moving cycles.
Do not attempt to climb the internal structures of the viaduct; stay strictly to the designated path on the Monsal Trail.
Cyclists should use bells to alert pedestrians in tunnels; keep dogs on leads near grazing livestock.
