Charles plunges into the river

Mad Dog > Locations > Derbyshire > Monsal Dale > Charles' bridge >

Charles seeks
shelter as
the dogs
again
close in

Charles rushes down the side of the bridge, and into the river

"Routes taken — routes proposed"
Fenton to Charles

 

Charles' escape plans are interrupted again, by the sound of an approaching dog pack. Caught in the open, Charles darts down the side of a river bridge in search of safety.

The scene
as viewed
from the
water's edge

The scene in May 1999

May 1999

 

Description: The bridge beneath which Charles hides is located right in the heart of the Monsal valley, near the only crossroads junction.

Where is it?: The road which runs down from the junction, between Dean Cottage (Fenton's house) on one side and Upperdale Farm (Jim and Sanders' place) on the other, leads over the bridge and to the far bank. The bridge can also be reached from the top of the Monsal viaduct, by following a short section of the 'Monsal Trail' (the path that leads along the viaduct top) away from the sealed tunnel entrance. Follow the path until it passes the site of the old Monsal Railway station (a spot now marked by an unattractive brick shed). Immediately behind the shed, pass through the gap between the wall and the gate. Turn right onto a rocky stone track (signposted for Upperdale) and walk downhill, underneath another bridgeway, to arrive at the bridge from the opposite riverbank.

Where's the best vantage point?: For this shot, the camera is set by the river edge looking back up as Charles approaches. The rear of 'Fenton's house' is visible in the background.

What about access?: The bridge is part of the public highway, and so is fully accessible (although a watch must be kept for occasional vehicles). With care, it is possible to walk down to the river's edge to assume the original camera position.

Anything else?: As with all the Monsal sites, numerous other locations are nearby — including Jim and Sanders' barn and the road along which Charles cycles. As with the viaduct top, the bridge itself is a popular tourist spot, and can be a very busy area at "peak times". During quieter periods it is a stunningly beautiful and restful setting.

As Lill runs down the side of the bridge, he puts out his arm to grab the wall to steady himself — but misses, as he flies past. It is not entirely clear whether this 'slip' was intentional or accidental.  
 

Mad Dog > Locations > Derbyshire > Monsal Dale > Charles' Bridge >  
 
 
 

Page last updated:
13 March 2003