Ashbourne Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Ashbourne Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Ashbourne sits in a prime spot for exploring the southern Peak District. The town itself has over 200 listed buildings, including St Oswald's Church with its 212-foot spire. Take a walk down Church Street, described by architectural historian Nikolaus Pevsner as "the finest street of Georgian buildings in Derbyshire".

Dovedale National Nature Reserve (DE6 2AY) is just 5 miles northwest of town. Open daily, this limestone dale features the iconic stepping stones across the River Dove. It scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor with visitors praising the accessible paths and stunning scenery.

Sudbury Hall and the National Trust Museum of Childhood (DE6 5HT) sits 8 miles south. Open Wednesday-Sunday, 11am-4pm, this 17th-century country house combines period rooms with a fascinating museum. It scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor, with many noting the excellent family activities.

For shopping, Ashbourne's cobbled marketplace hosts a Thursday and Saturday market dating back to 1257. We love browsing the independent shops along Dig Street and Victoria Square - the antique shops are particularly good for unusual souvenirs.

Pet Friendly

Dogs will love a holiday in Ashbourne as much as you will! The Peak District has countless walks where dogs can roam freely. Tissington Trail (DE6 1NA), a 13-mile former railway line starting in Ashbourne, is perfect for dogs with its traffic-free path.

After a walk, head to The Smiths Tavern (DE6 1GD) in the town centre. This traditional pub welcomes dogs in the bar area and garden, even providing water bowls and treats. The Old Dog pub in Thorpe (DE6 2AT) is another great option with excellent food and a dog-friendly policy throughout.

Ashbourne Animal Welfare (DE6 1HA) can provide emergency vet advice, while Ark Veterinary Practice (DE6 1GD) offers full services if needed. I recommend packing a towel specifically for drying your dog after walks - the Derbyshire countryside can get muddy even in summer! Then you can both enjoy that hot tub later.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Ashbourne

Tissington Village (DE6 1ND) is a perfectly preserved estate village 4 miles north of Ashbourne. This picture-postcard settlement centres around Tissington Hall, a Jacobean mansion still occupied by the FitzHerbert family who've owned it since 1465. The village is famous for well dressing in Ascension week (May), when locals decorate five wells with natural materials forming biblical scenes. Even outside this period, the village's duck pond, tea rooms and craft shops make it worth visiting.

Carsington Water (DE6 1ST) offers outdoor activities just 5 miles west of Ashbourne. This 750-acre reservoir has an 8-mile circular walking/cycling route, watersports centre offering sailing, windsurfing and paddleboarding lessons and excellent bird watching opportunities. The visitor centre includes shops, restaurants and exhibits about the reservoir's construction. Visitors give it 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor, with many mentioning the clean facilities and family-friendly atmosphere.

Ashbourne's Historic Town Trail takes you through centuries of history. Start at the Market Place with its 1861 Gothic Revival Market Hall, then explore Church Street's Georgian townhouses and medieval St Oswald's Church. Don't miss the Green Man Royal Hotel where Bonnie Prince Charlie stayed in 1745 and the Grammar School where George Eliot set scenes in "Adam Bede". The tourist information centre (DE6 1GF) provides free trail maps.

What's the best time to visit Ashbourne?

Each season offers something different. Summer brings perfect hiking weather and outdoor events. Autumn sees spectacular colours in the surrounding woodlands. Winter is quieter but magical, especially with a hot tub! The annual Shrovetide Football match (February/March) is worth experiencing, though accommodation books up quickly.

Can I get around without a car?

While possible, a car makes things easier. Ashbourne has bus connections to Derby, Buxton and Leek. The Tissington Trail provides car-free access to the Peak District for walkers and cyclists. Taxis are available but should be booked in advance, especially evenings.

Where can I buy groceries?

Ashbourne has a Sainsbury's and M&S Foodhall on the outskirts, plus a Co-op in the town centre. For local produce, try the Thursday and Saturday markets or Hartington Farm Shop (DE6 1QU, 7 miles north). Many cottages offer welcome hampers with local goods if arranged in advance.

Are there any annual events worth planning around?

The Royal Shrovetide Football match (Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday) sees thousands participate in a game played throughout the town. Ashbourne Festival (June-July) includes music, art and literary events. Ashbourne Show (August) celebrates local agriculture with competitions, food stalls and entertainment.

What's the best walk near Ashbourne?

The Manifold Way and Dovedale offer spectacular limestone valley walks. For something circular, try the 5-mile Tissington Trail to Thorpe loop, which includes river views and village pubs. The tourist office sells OS maps covering all local routes.

Where's good for a special meal out?

The Dining Room at The Old Dog (DE6 2AT) offers excellent modern British cuisine in a 17th-century setting. White's of Ashbourne (DE6 1GH) serves great steaks and local specialties. For something different, Lamplight Restaurant (DE6 1GH) offers Mediterranean dishes in a romantic setting.

1. Visit Peak District - Ashbourne Guide
2. Ashbourne Town Council Visitor Information
3. National Trust - Ilam Park and Dovedale