Places to Visit in Derbyshire near Wildflower Cottages

Visitors often comment on how centrally located our holiday cottages are - Foxglove and Columbine - for reaching the many attractions of Derbyshire and the Peak District. We couldn't possibly list them all here but have tried to provide a flavour of what's on offer locally.

The Fabrick Rock: Also known as the Fabric or Ashover Rock. A short walk of less than half a mile from the cottages this rock is 299 metres above sea level and, on clear days, offers spectacular views of Derbyshire and across five other counties (Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire and Staffordshire). Look for the stone steps carved into the hillside next to it and follow the public footpath to Ashover. Or take a picnic and admire the panoramic view. Try one of our local Ashover walks.; Distance from Alton: less than half a mile.

Ashover: One of the prettiest villages in Derbyshire, Ashover is in a lovely valley, surrounded by tree clad hills. All around there are excellent walks. By road it is only a mile away but shorter cross-country. The 15th century parish church is the focal point of the village with an ancient font and a beautiful interior. Nearby Ogston Reservoir is a site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), offering a variety of habitats. It is a magnet for bird watchers and Ogston Bird Club is one of the largest clubs in Britain. There are three pubs in the village itself and several others nearby with a range of beers and food to suit all tastes. This traditional farming community is home to the renowned Ashover Show which is held each year on the 2nd Wednesday in August. Follow the Ashover Audio Trail around the village to find out more about its fascinating history; Distance from Alton: 1 mile.
Read more about Ashover ....

Alton Riding School: Can you ride or would you like to learn? This ABRS and BHS approved riding school is only away. For more details please call 01246 590267; Distance from Alton: less than half a mile.

Chatsworth House: Probably the best-known stately home in England, no stay is complete without a visit to Chatsworth. There really is something for everyone: the magnificent house, the formal gardens and parkland designed by Capability Brown, the farmyard and adventure playground, not forgetting the celebrated farm shop. Open from mid March to just before Christmas; Distance from Alton: 7.3 miles - 14 mins by car across beautiful moorland
Read More about Chatsworth ....

Heights of Abraham: Try a cable car ride in Matlock Bath which takes you soaring high above the Derwent Valley and check out the views. This is a unique hilltop Park set on top of a dramatic limestone gorge, amid great natural beauty. Explore 60 acreas of woodland trail or join a guided tour of the underground caverns created by lead mining and learn about the rocks and minerals of the Peak District.; Distance from Alton: 5.8 miles - 14 mins by car
Read More about Heights of Abraham ....

Chesterfield: The town's most famous landmark is the Crooked Spire, the local name for St Mary and All Saints Church - the largest in Derbyshire and built in the late 13th century. The Spire stands 228 feet from the ground and leans 9 feet 5 inches from its true centre. Find out how it developed its remarkable twist. The town is also renowned for its 800 year old open market with general markets on Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays and a Flea Market on Thursdays. Farmers markets are held on the 2nd Thursday of each month. If shopping isn't your thing, try exploring The Shambles or visiting the museum to find out the story of Chesterfield from its origins as a Roman fort on Rykneld Street. Or what about taking in a show at the Pomegranate Theatre?; Distance from Alton: 4.4 miles - 11 mins by car
Read more about Chesterfield ....

Hardwick Hall: The sight of this impressive Elizabethan hall across the valley from the cottages shouldn't be missed. As the sun sets and catches the glass windows there is a blaze of light from this great house, once described as having "more glass than wall". It was built in the 1590s by Bess of Hardwick, a stubborn strong-minded woman who survived 4 husbands and amassed a great fortune. Her son eventually inherited Chatsworth. This National Trust property is one of the finest and most unchanged examples of Elizabethan architecture in England. It has a fascinating history and a visit is highly recommended. Other attractions on the Hardwick Estate include Stainsby Mill, a fully-functioning water powered mill with a 17 foot waterwheel and the Stone Centre where visitors can learn about the traditional craft of stonemasonry. Visitors can also enjoy the walled courtyards and over 300 acres of historic parkland.; Distance from Alton: 6.3 miles - 15 mins by car
Read more about Hardwick Hall ....

Haddon Hall: This Medieval and Tudor manor house is an absolute gem. Inside, there is a fine example of a medieval kitchen; and an Elizabethan long gallery - the most modern room in the house! The exterior walls are adorned with climbing roses whilst the garden brims with roses, delphiniums and clematis. Haddon Hall is a popular choice as a film and TV location. The 2006 TV adaptation of Jane Eyre was filmed at Haddon.; Distance from Alton: 8.0 miles - 14 mins by car
Read More about Haddon Hall....

Lea Gardens: The gardens are sited on the remains of a medieval millstone quarry and cover an area of approximately 4 acres on a wooded hillside. The excellent rock garden contain a huge variety of alpines with acers, dwarf conifers, heathers and spring bulbs. Discover a unique collection of rhododendrons, azaleas, kalmias and other plants of interest, introduced from the far corners of the world.; Distance from Alton: 4.9 miles - 13 mins by car

Gullivers Kingdom: This family theme park in Matlock Bath is particularly suitable for younger children. It is situated on a hillside with amazing scenery and views over the Derwent Valley. Good value for a family fun day out.; Distance from Alton: 5.8 miles - 14 mins by car
Read More about Gullivers Kingdom....

Crich Tramway Village: A lovingly restored period village that is also home to the National Tramway Museum and its world renowned archives. Have as many rides as you like on different vintage trams. Visit the fascinating exhibition halls or explore three acres of woodland park. The sculpture trail is enchanting and fun for all ages. Open daily until 2nd November.; Distance from Alton: 6.0 miles - 14 mins by car

Caudwell's Mill: This is a unique, grade II listed historic roller flour mill in Rowsley at the confluence of the Derwent and Wye rivers. Powered by water from the river Wye, a mill has stood on this site for at least 400 years. There are numerous displays, descriptions and exhibitions throughout the mill and an excellent craft centre and gift shop. There is fresh home-cooked food in the cafe which has lovely river views.; Distance from Alton: 7 miles - 11 mins by car
Read More about Caudwell's Mill....

Whats On Guide

March: Chatsworth House Opens for 2010; Sun 14th March until Thu 23rd December; Magnificent historic house and gardens open daily from 11.00 to 17.00. Special events all year round.We have special offers in Columbine Cottage from 21st March. More details...; www.chatsworth.org

April: Easter 1940s Weekend at Crich Tramway Village; 4th and 5th April; Experience the war years with military vehicles, soldiers and civilians. All guests receive an ID card and ration book on arrival. Re-enactments throughout the day.; www.tramway.co.uk; Easter Food Fayre at Denby Pottery; Monday 5th April; Taking place at the Denby Visitor Centre this event will showcase local food producers, artists and craftsmen.; Tel: 01773 740799; www.denbyvisitorcentre.co.uk; Peak District Walking Festival; Sat 24th April to 9th May; Over 170 events and walks around the Derbyshire Peak District. Offers a variery of guided and self-guided walks to suit all ages and abilities. We still have availability from 24th April onwards in Columbine and Foxglove Cottages. More details...; www.visitpeakdistrict.com

May: Chatsworth Horse Trials; Sat 15th to Sun 16th May; A weekend of world class sport with displays, entertainment and stalls.; www.chatsworth.org; Historic Border Country Walking Festival; 15th to 23rd May; An exciting programme of over 40 guided walks, cycle rides and illustrated talks. Now in its fourth year.; Tel: 01246 345777/8; Email: tourism@chesterfield.gov.uk; www.visitpeakdistrict.com; Derbyshire Food and Drink Fair at Kedleston Hall; Sat 22nd to Sun 23rd May; Around 100 stalls with the very best in local food and drink. Entertainment includes live music, well-dressing, arts and crafts and street theatre.; Tel: 01629 538464; derbyshirefoodfestival

June: Italian Continental Market; Fri 18th to Sat 19th June; Visit Chesterfield market for a traditional Italian food market selling a wide range of cheeses and cured meats, olives and balsamic vinegars. Or try pasta, speciality breads, biscuits and cakes.; Tel: Chesterfield Tourist Information 01246 345777; www.visitchesterfield.info

July: Chesterfield Medieval Market; Tuesday 27th July; Medieval entertainment including knights, ladies and minstrels taking part in battles and skirmishes. Stalls and fun-fair with refreshments and hog roast. Trips up the Crooked Spire.; Tel: Chesterfield Tourist Information 01246 345777; www.visitchesterfield.info

August: Ashover Show; Wednesday 11th August; An entertaining and fun day out for all of the family to enjoy. A really traditional country show in a beautiful setting. Includes cattle, sheep and shire horse classes. Visit the horticulture and craft tents, sample wonderful food in the Appetising Ashover marquee or listen to the Ashover Brass Band and admire the view.; www.ashovershow.co.uk

2010 © Wildflower Cottages
Self catering holiday accommodation in Alton near Ashover in Derbyshire
Tel: 01246 590052 Mobile: 07709 436727 Email: info@wildflowercottages.co.uk