Waterfalls near North Wingfield Derbyshire are primarily found in the wider region, offering a blend of natural features and historical interest. North Wingfield itself is characterized by grasslands, wetlands, and the River Rother. The area provides opportunities for walking routes and exploring local parks. Visitors can discover various types of waterfalls within a reasonable distance, often combined with historical sites.
Last updated: June 29, 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 most popular waterfalls in the wider North Wingfield area include Lumsdale Falls and Lumsdale Valley Mill Ruins and Waterfall, both near Matlock. Visitors also enjoy Smithy Brook Waterfall in Kenning Park, located in Clay Cross.
Yes, the Lumsdale Valley Mill Ruins and Waterfall is a significant historical site. It features ancient mill ruins alongside cascading water, scheduled as an ancient monument by Historic England. While access to some areas is restricted for preservation, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and history.
Around North Wingfield, you can expect to see a mix of natural cascades and river features. The Lumsdale area, for instance, boasts spectacular waterfalls within a steep, wooded valley. Other locations like Kenning Park offer river features within a recreation ground, providing a blend of natural and managed green spaces.
Yes, Smithy Brook Waterfall in Kenning Park is considered family-friendly. This park in Clay Cross is a recreation ground suitable for all ages, offering a pleasant environment to enjoy the river feature and waterfall component.
Accessibility varies. For Lumsdale Falls and Lumsdale Valley Mill Ruins and Waterfall, the area is fenced off due to preservation efforts. While direct access to the mill ruins and some parts of the waterfall is restricted, you can view the falls from a top pond or a permissive footpath that offers a good vantage point. Smithy Brook Waterfall in Kenning Park is within a public recreation ground, generally offering easier access.
For the Lumsdale waterfalls, there is no parking directly in the valley. It is recommended to walk from Matlock or take a bus that stops on Chesterfield Road (north of the valley) and then walk through Lumsdale. For Smithy Brook Waterfall in Kenning Park, you would typically find parking facilities associated with the park in Clay Cross.
Yes, for the Lumsdale waterfalls, you can take a bus that stops on Chesterfield Road, which is north of the valley. From there, you can walk through Lumsdale to reach the falls and then continue to Matlock centre.
Waterfalls are often at their most impressive after periods of rain, when water flow is higher. Spring and autumn can offer beautiful scenery with lush greenery or vibrant foliage. Always check local weather conditions before your visit.
Beyond the more prominent sites, you might discover smaller, less-known features like the Doe Lea River Dam. This tiny dam creates a waterfall effect in the river, running alongside a trail after passing under the A617 dual carriageway, offering a more secluded experience.
The area around North Wingfield offers various outdoor activities. You can find routes for gravel biking, road cycling, and easy hikes. For example, there are several easy hiking trails like the Locko Plantation – Broomridding Wood loop. You can explore more options on the easy hikes around North Wingfield guide, the gravel biking guide, or the road cycling guide.
Yes, there are several hiking trails in the vicinity. For instance, you can find easy hikes such as the Locko Plantation – Broomridding Wood loop from North Wingfield, or the Williamthorpe Ponds loop from Holmewood. For more detailed routes, refer to the easy hikes around North Wingfield guide.
Visitors appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical interest, particularly at Lumsdale. They describe it as a 'beautiful spot' and a 'magical hidden gem,' enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and the unique combination of cascading water with ancient mill ruins. The community has shared over 50 photos and given more than 140 upvotes for these waterfalls.


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