Ashford-in-the-Water
If you’re looking for a perfect chocolate-box village to visit in the Peak District National Park, you’d be hard pressed to find one as lovely as Ashford-in-the-Water. It has everything that a country village needs: an idyllic riverside setting, complete with a medieval bridge, pretty limestone cottages, narrow lanes, a tearoom and cosy country pubs.
The records of Ashford-in-the-Water date back to the 10th Century. In the Domesday Book of 1086 it was referred to as Aisseford, the name deriving from Ash Tree Ford or River.
In contrast to its peaceful ambience today, Ashford-in-the-Water was once home to a thriving quarrying and mining industry producing Ashford Black Marble, a form of limestone which turns black when polished. It was especially popular in Victorian times when it was used to decorate inlaid furniture and funerary items.
You can still see examples of Ashford Black Marble in the pretty village church of Holy Trinity. The church is well worth a visit and its 13th Century tower is still intact, although most of it was rebuilt in the 19th Century.
The Sheepwash Bridge across the River Wye is one of the most photographed bridges in England, and it’s not hard to see why. The river is broad and beautiful at this point and its grassy banks are lined with daffodils in the Spring. There are often ducks dozing here, and you might catch sight of a dipper landing on the rocks in the water, as well as rainbow trout lazily swimming in the river.
The Sheepwash Bridge has been named by the English national tourist board as the best location in the country to play Pooh Sticks … and you can’t get a better reason to linger than that!
As its name suggests, the Sheepwash Bridge was once used by farmers to drive their flocks into the water to be washed before shearing, and the small walled enclosure used to pen the sheep is still in situ.
The bridge is now a Grade II listed structure, noted for its historic and architectural importance.
Ashford-in-the-Water Walks
To properly explore this beautiful area, why not try our Bakewell Walk via Ashford in the Water (5.7 miles) or Ashford in the Water Walk via Monsal Dale (6 miles)?
Things to Do & Attractions Near Ashford-in-the-Water
To help you explore the best of the area, here is a list of fantastic attractions and activities, all within easy reach of the village centre. Distances are approximate travel times by car.
Within the Village (0 miles)
- Photograph the Sheepwash Bridge: it’s a must-do. Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best light and fewer people. Don’t forget to play Pooh sticks from the upstream side!
- Visit Holy Trinity Church: explore the churchyard and interior to see the intricate Ashford Black Marble memorials and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Walk the Riverside Path: A gentle, flat walk along the River Wye, perfect for families. You can walk in either direction from the bridge, enjoying the village views and spotting wildlife.
- Enjoy Refreshments: Stop for a cream tea at a local tearoom or enjoy a pint of local ale in one of the village’s traditional pubs, like The Bull’s Head or the Ashford Arms.
Within 1-3 Miles
- Monsal Trail (2 miles): Access this popular traffic-free route for walking, cycling, and horse riding. The nearest access point is at Coombs Road Viaduct (a 5-minute drive). Enjoy stunning views and cycle through former railway tunnels. You can hire bikes at Hassop Station on the trail.
- Bakewell (2 miles): The bustling market town of Bakewell is just a 5-minute drive away. Explore its famous Monday market, visit the historic Bakewell Parish Church, and, of course, sample an original Bakewell Pudding from the Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop.
- Monsal Head & Viaduct (3 miles): A 10-minute drive takes you to one of the Peak District’s most iconic viewpoints. Park at Monsal Head and walk a few steps to the stunning vista of the majestic Monsal Viaduct crossing the deep valley of the River Wye.
- Thornbridge Hall & Gardens (3 miles): Just outside Bakewell, this stunning stately home offers tours of its incredible interiors and glorious gardens. Check their website for open days and event times (approx. 10-minute drive).
Within 4-6 Miles
- Chatsworth House (4.5 miles): Explore the lavish state rooms, the incredible art collection, the sprawling farmyard and adventure playground, and the renowned 105-acre garden.
- Haddon Hall (4.5 miles): One of England’s finest medieval manor houses, Haddon Hall is a 10-minute drive. With its ancient kitchens, banqueting hall, and romantic terraced rose gardens, it’s a must-see for history and architecture lovers and has been a filming location for many movies and TV series.
- Magpie Mine (5 miles): A 15-minute drive leads you to this iconic and atmospheric ruined lead mine, a Scheduled Ancient Monument. A circular walk from the village of Sheldon allows you to explore the well-preserved engine house and chimney, offering a fascinating glimpse into the area’s industrial past.
- Great Longstone (4 miles): A neighbouring village (10-minute drive) with a welcoming pub, The Crispin Inn, and access to lovely walks along the River Wye and up onto the surrounding limestone hills.
Within 7-10 Miles
- Buxton (10 miles): The “gateway to the Peak District” is a 20-25 minute drive. This elegant spa town offers the stunning Devonshire Dome, the Buxton Opera House for world-class performances, the serene Pavilion Gardens, and the chance to taste the thermal spring water.
- Castleton (9 miles): Famous for its show caves, including Peak Cavern (The Devil’s Arse), Blue John Cavern, and Speedwell Cavern, Castleton is a 20-25 minute drive away. It’s also the starting point for the challenging but rewarding hike up to Mam Tor, the “Shivering Mountain”.
- The Heights of Abraham (10 miles): Located in Matlock Bath (a 25-minute drive), this hilltop park is a fantastic family day out. Ride the cable cars up to the summit, explore the fascinating fossil caverns on a guided tour, and enjoy the woodland walks and stunning valley views.
