Attractions and Places To See around Horsley - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Horsley, Derbyshire, offer a combination of historical landmarks and natural features. This region, situated north of Derby, provides opportunities to explore ancient ruins, serene reservoirs, and unique historical sites. Visitors can discover a rich past alongside varied landscapes suitable for outdoor activities.
Best attractions and places to see around Horsley
- The most popular attractions is Hermitage Cave (Hermit's Wood, Derby), a historical cave and religious site carved by a local baker in the 12th century for solitary prayer. It features an arched doorway and was once accompanied by a small chapel.
- Another must-see spot is Dale Abbey Arch, the magnificent arch remaining from a 13th-century Premonstratensian abbey. This structure stands as a reminder of the area's monastic history.
- Visitors also love Mapperley Reservoir, a large freshwater lake with a nature reserve. It is surrounded by bluebell woodlands and farmland, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting and bird watching.
- Horsley is known for historical sites, natural landscapes, and local amenities. The area provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient ruins to peaceful reservoirs.
- The attractions around Horsley are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 300 upvotes and 80 photos shared for the highlights in this guide.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
All Saints Church, Dale Abbey
Highlight • Religious Site
See also SDR churches site
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Hermitage Cave (Hermit's Wood, Derby)
Highlight • Forest
In around 1130, he was led to this spot after a vision of the Virgin Mary. She told him to come to this spot and live a life of solitary prayer. Later, he also built a small chapel on the site, one of the smallest churches in England.
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Dale Abbey Arch
Highlight • Religious Site
Today, the magnificent arch of the east window is a dramatic sight. It is a poignant reminder of the faded grandeur of the monasteries.
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Nutbrook Coffee Shop
Highlight • Cafe
Open Fri: 9:30 - 14:30.
Sat & Sun: 9:00 - 16:00.
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Belper Volunteer Battalion Target Wall
Highlight • Historical Site
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Tips from the Community
One of England’s smallest and most unique parish churches, measuring just 25 by 26 feet. Dating back to the mid-12th century, it is literally semi-detached, sharing a roof and a wall with a private, historic farmhouse. Originally functioning as the infirmary chapel for the neighboring, now-ruined medieval abbey, the adjoining house was later used as a pub called the "Blue Bell Inn". Legend has it the vicar used to change in the pub's bar and nip through a gallery door to preach. Despite its size, the interior houses well-preserved, late 13th-century wall paintings depicting the Annunciation, Visitation, and Nativity. The chapel is packed with historic character, including a prominent 1634 pulpit placed behind the altar, tiered gallery seating, and 17th-century box pews. The surrounding village and abbey ruins are famously known in folklore as the site where Allan-a-Dale married his sweetheart in the Robin Hood legend.
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Nice cafe with friendly staff. Good mid walk stops while exploring the local reservoirs and Shipley Country Park. Open Fri: 9:30 - 14:30. Sat & Sun: 9:00 - 16:00.
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"The wood contains the Hermitage which was made around 1130 AD by a Derby Baker called Cornelius who had a vision to worhip God here at Deepdale, as the area was formely known."
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A really beautiful spot full of history! Make sure you were good hiking shoes, as there is a lot of steps on routes nearby, which can be treacherous with a mix of recent rain and wet leaves!
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end 2021 update: The cafe has created a new area outside to extend the number of picnic tables with umbrellas - probably to meet the demand for outside eating due to Covid. The cafe remains a great destination for a bike ride or walk (or even horse ride).
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some unique historical sites to visit around Horsley, Derbyshire?
Horsley, Derbyshire, offers several unique historical sites. You can explore the intriguing Hermitage Cave (Hermit's Wood, Derby), carved by a local baker in the 12th century for solitary prayer. Another significant site is the Dale Abbey Arch, the magnificent remaining arch of a 13th-century Premonstratensian abbey. Additionally, the Belper Volunteer Battalion Target Wall, a former firing range dating back to 1800, provides a glimpse into the area's military history.
Are there any natural beauty spots or nature reserves near Horsley?
Yes, the area around Horsley, Derbyshire, features beautiful natural spots. Mapperley Reservoir is a large freshwater lake with a nature reserve, surrounded by bluebell woodlands and farmland, perfect for wildlife spotting and bird watching. The Village Green also offers an attractive feature for walking and countryside pursuits.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around Horsley?
Horsley, Derbyshire, is a great base for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy easy hikes, mountain biking, and cycling. For detailed routes, explore guides like Easy hikes around Horsley, MTB Trails around Horsley, and Cycling around Horsley. The Village Green and Recreation Ground also offer space for walking and sports like crown green bowling.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Horsley area?
Yes, several attractions around Horsley are suitable for families. Mapperley Reservoir is a peaceful spot for nature walks and bird watching, and it's considered family-friendly. The Dale Abbey Arch is also noted as family-friendly, offering an easy and interesting historical site to explore. For a break, the Nutbrook Coffee Shop is a family-friendly cafe perfect for a mid-walk stop.
Where can I find a good coffee shop or place to eat while exploring Horsley?
The Nutbrook Coffee Shop is a popular choice, known for its friendly staff and good selection of cakes. It's an ideal stop while exploring local reservoirs and Shipley Country Park. The village also has a traditional pub, the Coach and Horses.
What historical churches or religious sites can I visit in Horsley?
Horsley, Derbyshire, is home to St Clement and St John Church, a parish church dating back to the 13th century with a fine peal of bells and a 14th-century tower. The Wesleyan Chapel, built in 1845, is also situated in a picturesque location beside the village green. Additionally, the Dale Abbey Arch is the remnant of a 13th-century Premonstratensian abbey, and the Hermitage Cave was once a site for solitary prayer.
Are there any unique architectural features or landmarks in Horsley village itself?
Yes, Horsley village is home to a unique old stone pillar box, possibly the only one of its kind in England. You can also find Reverend Sitwell's Fountains, donated to the village in 1864 and named Sophia, Rosamund, and Blanche after the Sitwell family's daughters, serving as focal points at various village crossroads.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Horsley?
Visitors particularly enjoy the blend of history and nature. The Hermitage Cave is praised for its historical significance and unique nature. The Dale Abbey Arch is appreciated as an impressive reminder of monastic history. Many also value the peaceful environment and wildlife spotting opportunities at Mapperley Reservoir, especially the bluebell woodlands.
Can I find golf facilities near Horsley?
Yes, Horsley Lodge Golf Club is located just south of the village on Smalley Mill Road, offering golf facilities for enthusiasts.
Are there any ancient ruins or castle remains in the Horsley area?
Yes, the remains of Horsley Castle, a 12th-century castle, are located about a mile from the village, offering a glimpse into its past. King John is said to have visited the castle twice. Additionally, the magnificent Dale Abbey Arch is all that remains of a 13th-century Premonstratensian abbey.
What are some good places for walking or enjoying the countryside in Horsley?
The Village Green is an attractive feature popular for walking and countryside pursuits. The Recreation Ground off French Lane also provides open space. For more structured walks, consider the easy hikes available in the area, which you can find in the Easy hikes around Horsley guide.
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