Alstonefield: A Pretty Village on the Staffordshire-Derbyshire Border
The pretty village of Alstonefield lies on the border of Staffordshire and Derbyshire, between the valleys of the River Dove and the River Manifold, surrounded by the most beautiful, rolling Peak District countryside.
Planning a visit? Our comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know, from top attractions and walking routes to practical tips for making the most of your trip to this beautiful Staffordshire village.
An Ancient Settlement
The village of Alstonefield is built upon an ancient site, with the name most probably deriving from ‘Aelfstan’s field’, Aelfstan being an Anglo-Saxon name. The Saxon occupation of this area is evidenced by the many fortified hill farms and ancient field systems in the surrounding valleys. There are also fragments of Saxon crosses in the village churchyard.
The village was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as a small farming community. By 1308 Alstonefield was granted a charter for a market and the village became a centre for trade, with many packhorse routes passing close by. However, as the importance of the packhorse routes declined over the centuries in favour of canal and rail transport, Alstonefield was overlooked in favour of its neighbours Hartington and Ashbourne.
Historic Buildings
There are still many historic buildings to be seen in the village and surrounding area, including an ancient tithe barn, the 16th Century rectory, the early 17th Century Stanshope Hall, and the three-storey workhouse known as The Hermitage, built in 1790.
The lovely church is Grade I listed and parts of the building date back to the 12th Century, although it is likely that there was an even earlier Saxon church on the site. The churchyard contains a circular memorial stone to Ann Green, who died on 11 April 1518. The grave is believed to be the oldest legible gravestone in England. A further remarkable grave is that of Mary Barclay, who died in 1731 at the ripe old age of 107!
Charles Cotton
The poet and writer Charles Cotton was born in Alstonefield in 1630. He was best known for writing the fisherman’s ‘bible’ The Compleat Angler with Izaak Walton in 1653, and was a renowned angler of the River Dove.
Alstonefield Today
The village of Alstonefield today is a peaceful, very picturesque place, with stone houses clustered around a village green, dotted with mature trees and watched over by a historic country inn, The George, the only survivor of three pubs in the village.
The Peak District village of Alstonefield is a beautiful place to wander and while away the hours, and the surrounding countryside is superb for walking, with a number of routes through neighbouring Beresford Dale, Wolfscote Dale, Mill Dale and Hall Dale.
Where to Stay in Alstonefield
Alstonefield offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. From The George inn to charming guest houses and self-catering cottages, there is something for every visitor.
Accommodation Options
- The George – historic country inn
- Charming guest houses and B&Bs
- Self-catering cottages in the surrounding countryside
- Camping and caravan sites nearby
Top Tips for Your Alstonefield Visit
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer offer the best weather for exploring the dales. Autumn brings stunning colours to the surrounding countryside.
- Getting There: Alstonefield is accessible by car via minor roads from the A515, located between Buxton and Ashbourne.
- Parking: There is parking available in the village, including near the village green and The George.
- Don’t Miss: The oldest legible gravestone in England, the historic church, and the beautiful dales.
- Explore: Beresford Dale, Wolfscote Dale, Mill Dale and Hall Dale offer superb walking opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alstonefield
Is Alstonefield worth visiting?
Absolutely! Alstonefield is a beautiful village with a fascinating history, a Grade I listed church, and stunning countryside on its doorstep.
What is Alstonefield famous for?
Alstonefield is famous for its ancient history, the oldest legible gravestone in England (dating from 1518), its connection to Charles Cotton, and its beautiful dales.
How old is Alstonefield?
Alstonefield is an ancient settlement with Saxon origins. It was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086.
What is the oldest gravestone in England?
The oldest legible gravestone in England is believed to be in Alstonefield churchyard – a circular memorial stone to Ann Green, who died on 11 April 1518.
Who was Charles Cotton?
Charles Cotton was a poet and writer born in Alstonefield in 1630. He co-wrote The Compleat Angler with Izaak Walton in 1653.
Is there a pub in Alstonefield?
Yes, The George is a historic country inn and the only survivor of three pubs that once operated in the village.
For more information about visiting the area, explore the official Peak District National Park visiting guide and plan your adventure in this remarkable part of Staffordshire.
