Top 6 Waterfalls around Clay Cross
Best waterfalls around Clay Cross are found in and around this former industrial town in Derbyshire, England. While Clay Cross itself features local water features, the wider Derbyshire area, particularly near Matlock, offers more extensive waterfall experiences. The region combines natural beauty with historical industrial heritage, providing diverse exploration opportunities. Visitors can discover both accessible park waterfalls and larger cascades with historical significance.
Best waterfalls around Clay Cross
- The most popular waterfalls is Lumsdale Falls, a waterfall that offers…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Lumsdale Valley Mill Ruins and Waterfall
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Lumsdale Falls
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Sydnope Brook Waterfall
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The Sydnop Brook …
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Smithy Brook Waterfall in Kenning Park
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Doe Lea River Dam
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A very stunning waterfall on outskirts of Matlock, this is a less busy waterfall than Lumsdale so well worth a visit, some paths are slightly overgrwon as not used as much
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Short little walk if you can get parked on the road. Beautiful place that is a must see!
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Harnessing the power of moving water to drive a mill wheel is an ancient invention of human discovery, whose origins can be traced back to ancient times. Thanks to such a design, a watercourse – natural or artificial – could simply replace human or animal muscle power with the power of natural elements, for example, to grind grain into corn or press oil from fruit. There are essentially two drive variants for watermills: * Either the flowing water simply hits the blades of the water wheel from below to set it in motion; or * the water is guided above the wheel – usually through a so-called "mill channel" – and falls onto the blades. This design, thanks to natural gravity, ensures greater efficiency.
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Easy to miss the entrance to view the waterfalls w3w manliness.audio.inches GR SK 31279 60558 You enter through a gap in the wall/fence (see my photo) and walk through to the Falls. The walk continues up steep steps to see more of Falls along Bentley Brook. Park with care near Highfields School and walk to see the Falls.
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In 1931 George Kenning local business man who started the Kennings Group wanted to give a gift to the people of Clay Cross. The gift was Kenning Park. The park still stands today. Situated to the back of Clay Cross Library. The park is a beautiful recreation ground for all the family. George also built the park in the memory of his parents. George was given a knighthood in 1943 for his political and public work.
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Though part of the path is closed off and you can't go in or through the buildings, there's a permissive footpath that takes you to a great vantage point of the falls and the valley. You can also walk round to the Mill Pond that feeds the falls for another viewpoint.
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I walked the tour today and there is access through and close to the falls not sure where these comments of closure are from - access is restricted to the core of the mill but the falls are all open and clear
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of waterfalls can I expect to find around Clay Cross?
Around Clay Cross, you'll find a mix of natural water features and historical sites where water played a crucial role. These range from small, accessible park waterfalls like Smithy Brook Waterfall in Kenning Park to the more dramatic cascades of Lumsdale Valley Mill Ruins and Waterfall, which are intertwined with significant industrial heritage.
Are there any family-friendly waterfalls near Clay Cross?
Yes, Smithy Brook Waterfall in Kenning Park is an excellent family-friendly option. Located behind the Clay Cross Library, Kenning Park is a recreation ground perfect for families, offering an easily accessible natural feature within a pleasant park setting.
What is the historical significance of the waterfalls near Clay Cross?
The most historically significant site is Lumsdale Valley Mill Ruins and Waterfall near Matlock. This area features impressive cascades that once powered water mills dating from the 17th to 19th centuries, making it an important example of industrial heritage. It was scheduled as an ancient monument by Historic England in 2014.
What are the access restrictions for Lumsdale Falls?
Access to the actual waterfall and mill ruins at Lumsdale Valley Mill Ruins and Waterfall is restricted, especially on weekends and Bank Holidays, due to the poor state of repair of some buildings and ongoing preservation efforts by the Arkwright Society. A permissive path closer to the old mill is open on weekdays from 9:00 to 20:00, but closed on weekends. Public footpaths still provide some access and vantage points.
Is there parking available for Lumsdale Falls?
There is no parking directly in Lumsdale Valley. If you plan to visit Lumsdale Valley Mill Ruins and Waterfall, it is recommended to park in Matlock and walk to the valley, or take a bus that stops on Chesterfield Road (north of the valley) and then walk through.
Can I reach the waterfalls near Clay Cross by public transport?
For Smithy Brook Waterfall in Kenning Park, you can easily reach Clay Cross town centre by public transport, and the park is situated behind the Clay Cross Library. For Lumsdale Falls, you can take a bus to Matlock or a bus that stops on Chesterfield Road near the valley, and then walk.
Are there any walking routes near the Doe Lea River Dam?
Yes, the Doe Lea River Dam is located along a trail after passing under the A617 dual carriageway. This area is part of local walking routes, offering a chance to explore the river and its features.
What outdoor activities can I do near the waterfalls around Clay Cross?
Beyond visiting the waterfalls, the area around Clay Cross offers various outdoor activities. You can explore MTB trails, enjoy road cycling routes, or go for a run on the many running trails available in the region.
What do visitors enjoy most about Lumsdale Falls?
Visitors appreciate the unique blend of natural beauty and industrial heritage at Lumsdale Falls. Despite access restrictions to some areas, the permissive footpaths offer great vantage points of the falls and the valley, allowing you to witness the power of water that once drove the historic mills.
Are the waterfalls around Clay Cross dog-friendly?
Generally, the public footpaths and park areas around waterfalls like Smithy Brook Waterfall in Kenning Park are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a lead and owners clean up after them. For Lumsdale Valley Mill Ruins and Waterfall, dogs are typically allowed on public footpaths, but always check local signage for specific restrictions, especially around sensitive historical sites.
Are there cafes or pubs near the waterfalls?
For Smithy Brook Waterfall in Kenning Park, you'll find amenities like cafes and pubs within Clay Cross town centre, which is easily accessible from the park. For Lumsdale Falls, the nearest cafes and pubs are in Matlock, which is a short walk or bus ride away from the valley.
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Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Clay Cross:
