Waterfalls around Morton CP are found in a region characterized by a blend of natural beauty and historical industrial heritage. The area features several waterfalls, often integrated with former mill sites and parklands. Visitors can explore these natural features alongside remnants of the region's past. This landscape offers diverse opportunities for outdoor activities, combining natural exploration with historical interest.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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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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Lumsdale valley holds some important examples of water powered mills in Britain. It was scheduled as an ancient monument in 2014 by Historic England. It has been owned by the Arkwright Society since 1996 which also own Cromford Mills. Unfortunately, there are areas and buildings in a very poor state of repair and most of the permissive access to the old buildings, Bentley Brook, the mill ponds and waterfall has been restricted while they seek funds to stabilise, make safe and repair the buildings and features. There is still some access on the public footpath that goes through the valley and the permissive path which gets a bit closer to the old mill is open during the week from 9:00 - 20:00. It is closed during the weekend. Please note that there is no parking in the valley, if you would like to walk through here it's best to walk from Matlock or take the bus which stops on Chesterfield Road (north of the valley) and then walk through Lumsdale and back to Matlock centre.
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The waterfalls around Morton CP are diverse, ranging from those integrated with historical industrial settings, such as old mill ruins, to those found within natural parks and river systems. The area blends natural beauty with its industrial heritage.
Yes, several waterfalls are deeply connected to the region's industrial past. For example, Lumsdale Valley Mill Ruins and Waterfall features important examples of water-powered mills. Similarly, Lumsdale Falls is also part of a historically significant area.
Absolutely. Smithy Brook Waterfall in Kenning Park is a great option. It's located within a recreation ground that was established as a gift to the community, offering a scenic spot suitable for all ages.
Among the most popular are Lumsdale Falls, which offers a great vantage point of the falls and valley, and Lumsdale Valley Mill Ruins and Waterfall, known for its historical context.
Access to the actual waterfall and mill ruins at Lumsdale Valley Mill Ruins and Waterfall is currently restricted on weekends and Bank Holidays due to preservation efforts by the Arkwright Society. During the week, a permissive path is generally open from 9:00 to 20:00.
There is no parking directly in the Lumsdale Valley. If you plan to visit Lumsdale Valley Mill Ruins and Waterfall or Lumsdale Falls, it's recommended to walk from Matlock or take a bus that stops on Chesterfield Road (north of the valley) and then walk through.
Beyond enjoying the waterfalls, Morton CP offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, MTB trails, and gravel biking routes in the surrounding area, catering to different difficulty levels.
Yes, there are several easy hiking routes available. For example, the 'River Amber Footbridge – St. Michael's Church loop from Morton CP' is an easy 5.5 km hike, and the 'Doe Hill Country Park Lake loop from Morton CP' is an easy 3 km option. You can find more details on hiking around Morton CP.
Visitors appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical context. The opportunity to see water-powered mills alongside scenic falls, and the presence of family-friendly parks, are frequently highlighted. The area has received over 140 upvotes and more than 50 photos shared by the komoot community.
Yes, the Doe Lea River Dam is a notable man-made feature. It's a small dam in the river that runs alongside a trail after passing under the A617 dual carriageway.
Be aware of the access restrictions, especially on weekends and Bank Holidays, when the area around the mill ruins and waterfall is often fenced off. There is no parking in the valley itself, so plan to walk from Matlock or use public transport. A permissive footpath allows for good views of Lumsdale Falls and the valley.


Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Morton CP: