Ashford-in-the-Water is a charming riverside village in the Peak District offering scenic walking trails and sights for visitors – and it’s a remarkable gem come rain or shine
Named as one of the UK’s most picturesque villages, this quaint community in the Peak District is quintessentially British with charm and stone-clad buildings.
Ashford-in-the-Water is the perfect chocolate-box village for explorers or anyone who fancies a quiet break away from urban life. Sitting on the banks of the River Wye, this picturesque town is an idyllic water-side location, full of pretty limestone cottages, narrow lanes and traditional English charm. For a start, the local area is dotted with plenty of spots to enjoy the incredible natural beauty it has to offer, including a number of walking trails, some suitable for the whole family, while others perfect for slightly more seasoned hikers.
The Ashford-in-the-Water to Monsal Dale Circular Walk traverses fields, woodlands, and open countryside whilst the Bakewell and Ashford-in-the-Water Circular offers scenic views of the River Wye, rolling hills, and many of Ashford’s notable historic sites, including the famous Sheepwash Bridge.
Little more matches the after-walk reward of a cold pint or a warm bowl of chips and this village boasts plenty of places to enjoy these. For example, The Bulls Head has full five star rating on Trip Advisor, who also awarded it a Travellers’ Choice award in 2024 and offers a range of delicious pub grub. The nearby Ashford Arms is a hotel and gastropub situated in the heart of the town and is the ideal place to unwind after a busy day exploring locally. Aisseford Tea Room, on the other hand, is definitely the place to go for a sweet treat.
All across the area there are nods to the towns historic past. For example, Holy Trinity Church is a Grade II listed parish church with a history that dates all the way back to the 12th century. Whilst most of the building has been rebuilt since then, namely in the 17th century, parts of the church from the1200s still remain standing, including the south door that boasts its original Norman decorative stone arch featuring carvings of a wild boar and other creatures as well as sections of the West tower.
Across the River Wye lies the famous Sheepwash Bridge which also dates back to the 17th century. The stone humpbacked bridge, as its name suggests, was once used by shepherds who would lead their flock down to water to wash their fleeces before shearing. Now, the bridge is one of the most photographed in the country and has been names as one of the country’s top locations for a classic British game of Pooh sticks.
Magpie Mine offers a glimpse into Derbyshire’s history in lead mining and was once a bustling hub for the industry. Operating for over 200 years, the mine is now no longer working and is managed by The Peak District Mines Historical Society, open for visitors to explore and learn about its past in providing work for local residents and supplies of lead far beyond.
For a real taste of countryside culture, including outstanding natural beauty and Thornbridge Hall and Estate is the place to visit. Dubbed the “The Quirkiest stately home in the UK” on its website, the Grade II listed stately home was once home to the Longsdon family and is situated in the middle of 12 acres of incredible gardens open to the public to explore.
Its a popular wedding destination and hosts plenty of family friendly activities throughout the year, including workshops for adults and children alike. There is a cosy cafe on site and often larger scale events like a Makers Market later this month that will showcase hand crafted goods by local and independent producers.
In terms of travel links, Buxton train station, which directly links to Manchester, as well as Chesterfield, linked to London and Sheffield, and Matlock stations all close by Ashford-in-the-Water. The A6 also runs alongside the town making it easy to access by car. Just a short drive away from the village is Bakewell, the capital of the Peak District.