Take a hike – the walking trails right on your doorstep in Ashbourne

Almost one in five (18%) future home movers in the East Midlands are reconsidering what they want from their next home, according to Redrow.

The new analysis of potential home movers in the region has revealed that 42% of people living in the East Midlands want to surround themselves with green, open spaces, while 37% want to be closer to smaller shops, including post offices, bakeries and grocers.

Across the UK, a quarter (25%) also agreed that finding a home within a strong community will be more important to them post-lockdown. This increased to a third (33%) of those aged 18 to 35, and 42% for those who are either expecting a child or have young children under 10-years-old.

With its rural setting, close knit community and proximity to open countryside, the popular market town of Ashbourne ticks all the boxes, and is set to become even more popular with homebuyers, and not least because of the multitude of walks right on its doorstep. For those looking to live in the area, our Henmore Gardens offers a variety of modern homes with high ceilings, spacious bedrooms and flexible areas, and is perfect for those looking to live closer to the countryside.

From woodland trails to river walks, here’s a roundup of some of the best routes in the area, and all are within 25 minutes’ drive of Henmore Gardens:


1. The Thorpe Walk

Enjoy one of the UK’s best-known valleys, complete with breath-taking views, water meadows and the famous Dovedale stepping stones. Taking you through the pretty village of Thorpe, just a 15-minute drive from Henmore Gardens in Ashbourne, this trail shows off the true beauty of countryside living.

The 3.75-mile route begins at the Dovedale Car Park, off the A515, and is mostly easy walking with a steady climb.

2. Ashbourne Shrovetide Trail

If you’re looking for a hike with a more unusual background, this could be the route for you. Dating back 900 years, the Ashbourne Royal Shrovetide Football game is the world’s biggest football game, with the largest pitch. Opened by the Edward VII, the then Prince of Wales, in 1928, and also played by Prince Charles, this walking route will take you along the three-mile-long, two-mile-wide playing route from goal to goal.


3. Carsington Water
This nine-mile, circular route is perfect for those who like a longer walk. Carsington Water is the last major British reservoir to be constructed in the twentieth century, and the surrounding area has been planted with nature in mind. Think stunning views, tweeting birds and shady woodland.

Starting at the Carsington Water visitor centre, pick up the path to its right, which runs along the top of the dam, between the road and reservoir. Walking anti-clockwise around the water, this walk will take around three to four hours, and is well-signposted.

4. The Tissington Walk
Just a 15 minute drive from Ashbourne, this walk follows The Tissington Trail along what was once the former railway route, an also includes a wander through a newly established nature reserve. This is a fairly easy 4.5 mile walk that will take you through the picturesque village of Tissington, with its historic Hall, neat stone houses and glimmering pond.

5. The Hartington Walk

The Hartington walk is a 6-mile ramble that is mostly flat, with one steady climb through the rocks. Descending gently through the Beresford Dale alongside the River Dove, this wooded wander is known for its spectacular views and wild flowers, which attracts a variety of butterflies during the summer.

Part of this dale has been designated as a national nature reserve, meaning the surrounding environment is protected and largely undisturbed. You can begin the route at the Hartington Village Car Park, which is two miles west of the A515.

Our East Midlands division is currently building at its Henmore Gardens development, situated in the heart of Ashbourne. The development offers the perfect blend of rural living, while still benefitting from excellent transport links to Derby, Burton on Trent, Stoke and Nottingham.

For more information on Henmore Gardens, please visit: www.redrow.co.uk/developments/henmore-gardens-ashbourne