Attractions and Places To See around Ockbrook And Borrowash - Top 20

The area is rich in history. You can visit the significant Moravian Settlement in Ockbrook, known for its 18th-century architecture and the Grade II listed Moravian Church. Other historical points include All Saints' Church with its 12th-century tower, and The Cross Keys inn, famous for its 'knitters' window'. In Borrowash, the Grade II listed Ulliker's Bridge over the disused Derby Canal, and St Stephen's Church with its notable war memorial, offer further historical insights. Don't miss the dramatic Dale Abbey Arch, a poignant reminder of a 13th-century Premonstratensian abbey.

Yes, Ockbrook and Borrowash offer several natural spots. Mapperley Reservoir is a peaceful body of water surrounded by bluebell woodlands, ideal for bird watching, where you might spot coots, moorhens, mallards, and kingfishers. West Park Meadow Local Nature Reserve, near Ockbrook, is managed for diverse wildlife, featuring a pond for aquatic life and wildfowl. Additionally, sections of the Derby Canal run through Borrowash, offering towpath walks.

Families can enjoy several attractions. Mapperley Reservoir is great for wildlife spotting and gentle walks. The nearby Attenborough Nature Reserve offers easy river paths and bird-watching opportunities, though it can get busy on weekends. The Dale Abbey Arch is an interesting historical site that's easy to access for all abilities. For a wider range of activities, Elvaston Castle Country Park, though not directly in the villages, is a highly recommended nearby attraction with 200 acres of parkland, gardens, and an ornamental lake.

Ockbrook is known for its numerous footpaths and 'gitties' (paths across open fields), providing routes to nearby areas like Spondon, Borrowash, Risley, and Dale Abbey. For more structured routes, you can explore the running trails around Ockbrook And Borrowash, which include moderate loops like the 'Derwent River Weir – River Derwent Weir loop'. The disused Derby Canal towpath in Borrowash also offers pleasant walking opportunities.

Yes, the area is suitable for cycling. You can find various routes in the Cycling around Ockbrook And Borrowash guide. Options range from easy rides like the 'Start of the Erewash Canal – Trent Lock loop' to moderate ones such as the 'Derwent Valley Riverside Path – Dale Abbey Arch loop'. The Trent Lock area is particularly popular for cyclists, offering a scenic spot with a pub and cafe for breaks.

For gravel biking enthusiasts, there are several routes to explore. The Gravel biking around Ockbrook And Borrowash guide features routes like the 'Trent & Mersey Canal Towpath – Swarkestone Lock loop' which is an easy ride, or the 'Dale Abbey Arch – Derwent Valley Riverside Path loop' for a moderate challenge. These routes often combine canal towpaths, forest trails, and quiet country lanes.

Visitors appreciate the blend of history and natural beauty. The Hermitage Cave is noted as a very interesting local feature, full of history. Trent Lock is loved for its scenic views and the convenience of a pub and cafe. The Dale Abbey Arch is praised as a dramatic sight and an easy, interesting hike. Many also enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and wildlife spotting at places like Mapperley Reservoir.

A truly unique spot is the Hermitage Cave (Hermit's Wood, Derby). This intriguing cave was carved by a local baker named Cornelius in the 12th century, who was inspired by a vision to live a life of solitary prayer. It's a fascinating glimpse into early religious practices and local folklore, nestled in a wooded area.

The Trent Lock area is a great spot, featuring a pub and cafe right at the canal junction, making it ideal for a break during a walk or cycle. The historic Cross Keys inn in Ockbrook also offers a chance to experience a local landmark while enjoying refreshments. Many local villages will also have traditional pubs.

Both Ockbrook and Borrowash are served by local bus routes, connecting them to Derby and other nearby towns. While specific routes to individual attractions may vary, public transport can get you into the villages, from where many sites are accessible on foot. Checking local bus schedules for the Erewash area is recommended for planning your visit.

The spring and summer months (April to September) are generally ideal for visiting, offering pleasant weather for exploring the natural features and walking trails. Spring brings bluebells to areas around Mapperley Reservoir, while summer is perfect for enjoying the canal paths and outdoor activities. However, the historical sites and village charm can be appreciated year-round.

Many of the natural areas and public footpaths around Ockbrook and Borrowash are suitable for dog walking. The towpaths along the Derby Canal and the numerous 'gitties' (footpaths) in Ockbrook provide good options. When visiting nature reserves like West Park Meadow or Mapperley Reservoir, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead to protect wildlife.