Attractions and Places To See around Greasley - Top 20

Greasley is rich in history. You can explore the remains of Greasley Castle, visit the historic St Mary's Church, or see the ruins of Beauvale Priory, a Carthusian monastic house. Another significant historical site is the Dale Abbey Arch, the impressive remnant of a former Premonstratensian abbey.

The area boasts several natural attractions. Moorgreen Reservoir, known as 'Willey Water' in D.H. Lawrence's novels, offers picturesque routes for walking and cycling. You can also explore High Park Woods, home to Robin Hoods Well, and Colliers Wood Nature Reserve, which serves as a starting point for various local walks.

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Newstead Abbey offers beautiful gardens and historical grounds to explore. Mapperley Reservoir is a peaceful spot surrounded by woodlands, great for wildlife spotting and gentle walks. The Dale Abbey Arch is also an easy and interesting historical site for all abilities.

The Greasley area is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy running on trails like the 'Bennerley Viaduct – Bennerley Viaduct Steps loop' or the 'Moorgreen Reservoir Trail'. For cycling, there are gravel biking routes such as the 'Broxtowe Country Trail' and MTB trails like the 'Bennerley Viaduct Steps – Bennerley Viaduct loop'. Find more routes on the Running Trails around Greasley, Gravel biking around Greasley, and MTB Trails around Greasley guide pages.

Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the woodlands and reservoirs, with bluebells blooming in spring and pleasant weather for walking and cycling. Autumn offers beautiful foliage, especially around areas like Moorgreen Reservoir and High Park Woods. While some trails are accessible year-round, always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Yes, Greasley and its surroundings have strong ties to D.H. Lawrence. Moorgreen Reservoir appears as 'Willey Water' and 'Nethermere' in his novels. Felley Mill and Haggs Farm were also childhood haunts of his. The nearby town of Eastwood is a significant location for those interested in his life and works.

The Parish Oven is noted as a tea room and a potential starting point for exploring the parish. Additionally, the Nutbrook Coffee Shop is a great spot for a mid-walk stop, especially when exploring local reservoirs and Shipley Country Park, though it has limited opening hours.

Yes, the striking Victorian Bennerley Viaduct, originally built in 1878, has been repurposed for hiking and cycling. It offers impressive views across the Erewash Valley and is a unique structure to experience on foot or by bike.

The Hermitage Cave (Hermit's Wood, Derby) is an intriguing cave with an arched doorway, carved by a local baker named Cornelius around 1130 for solitary prayer. A small chapel was later built on the site, making it a spot rich in local history and spiritual significance.

Absolutely. Mapperley Reservoir and its surrounding nature reserve are excellent for bird watching, with species like coot, moorhen, mallard, and kingfisher. In summer, you might hear chiffchaffs, willow warblers, and blackcaps. The woodlands and natural areas generally offer good chances to observe local wildlife.

Newstead Abbey is popular for its magnificent setting, beautifully curated gardens (including a Japanese water garden), and its rich history as a 12th-century monastery. It was also famously home to the Romantic Poet Lord Byron, adding a significant literary connection.

Many of the natural areas and trails around Greasley, such as those around Moorgreen Reservoir and through High Park Woods, are suitable for dog walking. Always ensure dogs are kept under control and follow local signage regarding leads, especially in nature reserves or near livestock.