Attractions and Places To See around Alderwasley - Top 20

The area boasts several impressive natural features. You can visit Black Rocks, a gritstone outcrop popular for hiking and offering glorious views towards Matlock Gorge and the Derwent Valley. Another must-see is High Tor and Giddy Edge, which provides spectacular views over Matlock Bath. Additionally, explore the ancient Shining Cliff Woods, a site of special scientific interest, or Kennallwood, known for its bluebells and a small waterfall.

Yes, Alderwasley and its surroundings are rich in history. You can explore High Peak Junction, a historical site where the Old Cromford and High Peak railway met the Cromford Canal. The village itself features St. Margaret's Church, dating back to the 13th century, and St. Margaret's Village Hall, considered Alderwasley's oldest structure. Nearby, you can find the Wirksworth Heritage Centre, Wingfield Manor (medieval ruins), and ancient stone circles like Nine Ladies Stone Circle and Arbor Low Stone Circle.

Alderwasley is an excellent base for walking. You can find a variety of routes, from easy strolls to challenging hikes. For example, there's an easy 5.4 km loop through Shining Cliff Wood. Moderate options include a 10.7 km loop along the River Derwent at Whatstandwell or a 7.1 km loop around Shining Cliff Wood and Peatpits Brook Reservoir. For more challenging terrain, consider the 22.7 km loop from Black Rocks to StarDisc. You can find more details on these and other routes in the hiking guide for Alderwasley.

Absolutely. The Cromford Canal towpath offers a gentle, scenic walk suitable for all ages and is wheelchair accessible. High Peak Junction is also family-friendly, with a shop, museum, and toilets. For a park experience, Hall Leys Park in Matlock provides amenities and a pleasant environment for families.

The area offers great opportunities for cycling. The Cromford Canal towpath is a scenic route for a leisurely ride. For gravel biking, you can explore routes like the 22.7 km loop from Wirksworth to Middleton Top Engine House and the High Peak Trail, or more challenging options like the 86.1 km Monsal Trail loop from Cromford. Discover more routes in the gravel biking guide for Alderwasley.

For quieter walks, consider exploring the various trails within Shining Cliff Woods or Kennallwood. These ancient woodlands offer peaceful paths away from more popular spots. The Derwent Valley also has numerous hidden gems and less-trafficked paths for those looking to explore off the beaten track.

Yes, for refreshments, High Peak Junction has a shop that sells hot drinks and snacks. In Alderwasley village, The Bear Inn is a popular pub serving traditional English food in a cozy atmosphere. Many cafes, pubs, and restaurants can also be found in nearby Matlock, particularly around Dale Road and Crown Square.

The Cromford Canal towpath is noted for its scenic beauty and sparkling turquoise water. It offers a gentle, accessible walk suitable for all visitors, with amenities available at High Peak Junction and Cromford Wharf. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

Visitors particularly enjoy the stunning views from places like Black Rocks and High Tor and Giddy Edge. The peaceful and scenic walks along the Cromford Canal towpath are also highly appreciated. The blend of natural beauty and rich historical sites, such as High Peak Junction, offers a diverse and engaging experience for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the ascent to the top of Black Rocks is quite steep. Additionally, the footpath along High Tor and Giddy Edge can be challenging in parts due to unfenced sections and sheer drops, making it not recommended for small children. More difficult hiking routes, such as the 22.7 km loop from Black Rocks to StarDisc, are also available in the area.

Many of the outdoor areas around Alderwasley are dog-friendly, especially the numerous walking trails and woodlands like Shining Cliff Woods and Kennallwood. High Peak Junction is also noted as dog-friendly, offering a good spot for a break during walks with your pet.

Alderwasley Hall is a historic Georgian country house that was once the home of the Hurt family. Today, it operates as a residential school for children with speech and communication difficulties. While the estate has a rich history, the hall itself is not generally open to the public for tours due to its current use as a school.