
Ashford in the Water
One of the Peak District's most picturesque villages and most photographed bridges.
Things to do at Ashford in the Water in the Peak District & Derbyshire
Picturesque Ashford in the Water's much-photographed medieval Sheepwash Bridge has been named by national tourist board VisitEngland as the best location in the country to play the popular family pursuit of Poohsticks.
Winnie the Pooh favourite game of floating sticks on fast flowing rivers is the perfect pastime on Ashford's pretty focal point, spanning the river Wye just north of Bakewell.
No less than three bridges cross the river in this charming village, full of character in an idyllic setting. Sheepwash Bridge, as its name suggests, was used by farmers to drive their flocks into the water to wash them, and you can still spot the small walled enclosure used to pen sheep on the river's broad, grassy banks.
With its lovely limestone cottages and beautifully-tended gardens, it's now hard to imagine that the village was once the centre of production for Ashford Black Marble, extracted from both quarries and mines in the area. You can see fine examples in the small church of Holy Trinity, and also in the Boyd Dawkins geological collection at Buxton Museum and Art Gallery (due to re-open in spring 2017).
Villagers roll up their sleeves in early June to create living art works made of natural materials during the Peak District and Derbyshire's unique annual Well Dressing celebrations, which include Holy Trinity Church.
When it comes to eating and drinking, there's plenty of choice, thanks to a hotel/restaurant, two pubs (one with rooms) and a traditional English tea room, as well as a well-stocked village shop.
If you fancy some leisurely walking or cycling, there are good links with the traffic-free Monsal Trail, and make a beeline for nearby Monsal Head for views to take your breath away. Or while away a lazy summer afternoon watching local teams play cricket in traditional whites in a picture book setting on Ashford's riverside pitch
What's On nearby
Events
Mark Lilley’s Christmas Singalong at The National…
Join Mark Lilley for an interactive Christmas Singalong for children
Events
An introduction to bookbinding at Chatsworth
Learn how to create a notebook using the Japanese stab binding technique.
Events
Santa's Grotto & post room! at The Whitworth…
The Whitworth will be sprinkled in Christmas magic!
Events
Santa's Grotto & post room! at The Whitworth…
The Whitworth will be sprinkled in Christmas magic!
Things to do
Business
Masson Mills
Explore our extensive collection of textile machinery on a visit to the Weaving Shed, Doubling Room, Victorian Workshop & Bobbin Room all within Sir…
Business
Peak District Pub Tours
Explore the Peak District's beauty and pub culture with Peak District Pub Tours. Our bespoke adventures cater to groups of all sizes, ensuring a…
Business
Buxton International Festival
BIF is recognised nationally and internationally as one of the UK’s leading arts festivals.
Business
The Robin Hood 500 (500RH)
The Robin Hood 500 (500RH) is a journey through 500 miles of Robin Hood country, from Nottingham Castle to Robin Hood’s Bay. Returning through the…
Places to stay
Business Directory Ashford Mill
Ashford Mill is an award winning watermill on the River Wye at Ashford in the Water. A Grade 2 listed 3 bedroomed historic conversion. incredibly spacious with exposed original features throughout
Business Directory Rafters at Riverside House
Riverside House Hotel is a 14-bedroom hotel, situated on the river Wye in the picturesque village of Ashford-in-the-Water.
Business Directory Thorpe Cottage
Thorpe Cottage is a 17th century grade II listed cottage in the centre of the village of Ashford in the Water. Ashford is an ideal base for walkers or cyclists who want to explore the Peak District. Close to Chatsworth House & Haddon Hall
Business Directory Grange Barn
Grange Barn is a luxury home away from home. A welcoming ‘bolt hole’ suitable for two, nestled in the picturesque village of Ashford-In-The-Water.
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