Your Gateway to the South Peak District
Nestled in the heart of a historic market town, the Ashbourne Information Point offers visitors an exceptional starting point for exploring the stunning South Peak District. Housed within the beautifully preserved Town Hall building – formerly the Talbot Inn, which hosted literary giants Izaak Walton and Charles Cotton during their collaboration on ‘The Compleat Angler’ in 1653 – this welcoming centre provides comprehensive tourist information alongside a fascinating journey through local heritage.
A Portal to History and Hospitality
The Ashbourne Information Point seamlessly blends historical charm with modern visitor services. As you step inside, you’re following in the footsteps of famous historical figures while accessing thoroughly contemporary local knowledge from trained, friendly staff. The centre’s unique setting enhances the visitor experience, creating an immediate connection with Ashbourne’s rich cultural tapestry.
The centre’s exhibits focus particularly on the town’s most famous export: the legendary Royal Shrovetide Football game. This medieval tradition, which continues to dominate the town’s calendar every Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday, represents one of England’s most extraordinary sporting events. Through changing exhibitions, visitors can immerse themselves in this incredible aspect of local heritage before venturing out to explore the actual landscape where the game unfolds across the town’s streets and waterways.
Comprehensive Visitor Services
Though compact, the Ashbourne Information Point delivers essential services for travellers:
- Expert local knowledge from trained staff always available
- Extensive selection of free leaflets covering Ashbourne and the surrounding South Peak District
- Changing historical exhibitions showcasing the area’s illustrious past
- Sustainability-focused access easily reachable via public transport
While the centre no longer operates retail facilities, staff can direct visitors to nearby stockists including the Trespass shop on Market Place for Ordnance Survey maps essential for exploring the surrounding countryside.
Gateway to the Southern Peak District
The Ashbourne Information Point’s strategic position makes it the perfect base for discovering the diverse landscapes of the South Peak District. From this historic market town, visitors can easily access some of the region’s most celebrated attractions:
Dovedale and the Manifold Valley
Just northeast of Ashbourne lies the breathtaking Dovedale, renowned for its picturesque river valley, iconic stepping stones, and dramatic limestone formations including the famous Lovers’ Leap and Twelve Apostles rock spires. This spectacular natural landscape represents some of the most photographed scenery in the Peak District National Park. The information point can provide detailed walking routes through this beautiful valley and into the equally stunning Manifold Valley.
Tissington Trail and High Peak Trail
Ashbourne serves as the southern terminus for the popular Tissington Trail, a 13-mile traffic-free path following the route of a former railway line through beautiful countryside. Similarly accessible is the High Peak Trail, offering another magnificent route through the limestone plateau of the White Peak. These trails provide excellent walking, cycling and horse-riding opportunities through some of the Peak District’s most characteristic landscapes.
Historic Estates and Stately Homes
The South Peak District boasts an exceptional collection of historic properties within easy reach of Ashbourne. Visitors can obtain information about Sudbury Hall (a magnificent Restoration house with National Trust museum of childhood), Kedleston Hall (a stunning Palladian mansion managed by the National Trust), and Calke Abbey (known as the ‘house that time forgot’, also National Trust).
Charming Peak District Villages
The information point provides details on exploring the quintessential White Peak villages that dot the landscape around Ashbourne. Picturesque settlements like Tissington (famous for its well dressing ceremonies), Hartington (a charming stone village with a historic market square), and Parwich (offering stunning views across the countryside) all lie within easy reach.
The Staffordshire Moorlands
To the west of Ashbourne, the landscape transitions into the dramatic Staffordshire Moorlands, where visitors can discover the rugged beauty of the Roaches – a striking gritstone ridge popular with climbers and walkers – and the serene beauty of Tittesworth Reservoir, a haven for wildlife and watersports enthusiasts.
Planning Your Visit
The Ashbourne Information Point operates with sustainability at its heart, being easily accessible by public transport. The town enjoys excellent bus connections throughout the Peak District and beyond, making it possible to explore this beautiful region without relying on private vehicles.
For visitors seeking further information about Ashbourne itself, the centre directs them to ashbournetowncouncil.gov.uk, which offers comprehensive details about current events, accommodations, and additional local attractions.
More Than Just Information
What sets the Ashbourne Information Point apart is its dual role as both tourist facility and cultural venue. By integrating historical exhibitions with practical visitor services, it provides context and depth to the travel experience. Understanding the area’s heritage – from its literary connections to its unique sporting traditions – enriches every aspect of exploring the South Peak District.
Whether you’re planning a challenging hike along the Tissington Trail, a cultural tour of stately homes, a leisurely exploration of picturesque villages, or simply want to understand the famous Shrovetide Football tradition, the welcoming staff at the Ashbourne Information Point stand ready to help you create an unforgettable visit to this captivating corner of the Peak District.
Begin your adventure where history and hospitality meet – at the Ashbourne Information Point, your essential gateway to the landscapes, heritage and beauty of the South Peak District.
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