Tintwistle: A Pretty Village in the Longdendale Valley
The pretty village of Tintwistle is situated at the western end of the Longdendale Valley, in the very northern edges of the Peak District.
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 Derbyshire village.
Ancient History
The village of Tintwistle dates back to the 11th Century, and was mentioned as a settlement in the Domesday Book of 1086. Despite its relatively remote nature, the village was well populated and had an established farming community, with additional income coming from the woollen trade.
The Longdendale Valley contained a number of packhorse routes across the moorland, and Tintwistle lies on an old salt trading route from the towns of Cheshire to the east of England.
Historically Tintwistle was part of Cheshire, and remained so until 1974, when it became part of the High Peak district of Derbyshire.
Tintwistle Today
Tintwistle today is a village of two halves: the oldest part of the village is a designated conservation area, with some lovely old buildings that date back to the 17th Century. A number of picturesque stone cottages line a pretty village green, and the towering village church, Christ Church, is a landmark in the village. It dates from 1835, and has a very distinctive tall bell tower and Gothic windows.
The Bull’s Head pub is another historic building in the heart of the village, and a great place to visit for great pub food and traditional ales.
The village still has a thriving community, with an active football team, Tintwistle Athletic FC, a cricket club and two brass bands, Tintwistle Brass Band and Arnfield Brass. Tintwistle Brass Band has been in operation for over 120 years, and is highly successful in the competitive field of brass bands.
The Surrounding Countryside
Tintwistle is surrounded by beautiful open countryside, overlooking the string of reservoirs that line the Longdendale Valley, and beyond that to the hills of Coombes Edge and Whiteley Nab. To the north lies the wild Featherbed Moss moor, named for the cottongrass that grows there in abundance.
Where to Stay in Tintwistle
Tintwistle offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. From the historic Bull’s Head to charming guest houses and self-catering cottages, there is something for every visitor.
Accommodation Options
- The Bull’s Head – historic pub in the heart of the village
- Charming guest houses and B&Bs
- Self-catering cottages in the surrounding countryside
- Camping and caravan sites nearby
Top Tips for Your Tintwistle Visit
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer offer the best weather for exploring the Longdendale Valley and surrounding moorland.
- Getting There: Tintwistle is accessible by car via the A628, located between Manchester and Sheffield.
- Parking: There is parking available in the village, including near the church and the Bull’s Head.
- Don’t Miss: The historic village green, Christ Church with its tall bell tower, and the views over the Longdendale reservoirs.
- Explore: The surrounding countryside offers walks to Coombes Edge, Whiteley Nab, and the wild Featherbed Moss moor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tintwistle
Is Tintwistle worth visiting?
Absolutely! Tintwistle is a pretty village with a fascinating history, a designated conservation area, a historic pub, and stunning views over the Longdendale Valley.
What is Tintwistle famous for?
Tintwistle is famous for its location in the Longdendale Valley, its historic conservation area, Christ Church with its distinctive tall bell tower, and its brass bands.
How old is Tintwistle?
Tintwistle dates back to the 11th Century and was mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086.
When was Christ Church built?
Christ Church dates from 1835 and has a very distinctive tall bell tower and Gothic windows.
Is there a pub in Tintwistle?
Yes, The Bull’s Head is a historic pub in the heart of the village serving great pub food and traditional ales.
What is Featherbed Moss?
Featherbed Moss is a wild moor to the north of Tintwistle, named for the cottongrass that grows there in abundance.
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 Derbyshire.
