All you need to know about the Tissington Trail
The Tissington Trail runs for 13 miles from Parsely Hay in the north to Ashbourne in the south.
The trail is traffic-free and is ideal for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. It’s one of the best walks in the Peak District and there’s plenty to see en-route as you pass through the beautiful countryside of the Derbyshire Dales. The trail is accessible all year round and makes for a very enjoyable day out.
If you’ve been thinking about paying the trail a visit, we’ve put together a list of FAQ’s to help you plan your trip.
How long is the Tissington Trail? How long does it take to walk or cycle it?
The trail is 13 miles in total and should take an average walker 2.5 hours with stops along the way. If cycling is more your sport of choice, expect the trail to take just over an hour. View the Tissington Trail map here.
Where is the Tissington Trail - where does it start and end?
The Tissington Trail is in the wonderful Derbyshire Dales, most walkers tend to start the route at Parsley Hay which is a short drive from Buxton. There is a car park, toilets, picnic site and visitor information centre. The route travels south along the former Tissington railway and finishes in the market town of Ashbourne. Remember you will need to return to Parsley Hay to pick up your car; cyclists tend to cycle back and complete the trail in reverse but if you’re on foot and don’t feel like a 26-mile round-trip, there is a local bus service from Victoria Square in Ashford. Check departure times and schedules before you set off.
What is there to see and do on the Tissington Trail?
As well as the glorious countryside and the great opportunity for getting some fresh air, the trail passes through several beautiful villages including Thorpe, Tissington, Alsop, Hartington and Parsley Hay.
The picturesque village of Tissington is just splendid with beautiful cottages built around a noble old hall, fine church and duck pond. Tissington Hall is open to visitors on selected days during April and August and the church with its huge square tower is also well worth exploring. The trail also passes very close by to Dovedale, a dramatic ravine with beautiful scenery, famous for its Instagram-worthy stepping stones across the River Dove.
The village of Hartington is a great little pit-stop – there are some lovely gift shops to explore as well as the Beresford Tea Rooms or the Charles Cotton Hotel, Restaurant & Bar if you fancy a bite to eat. Hartington is also home to the famous Hartington Cheese Shop who has quite the reputation for producing the highest quality cheeses as well as local ales, gins and chutneys; so make sure you save room for a few of their delicacies in your backpack.
What should I bring with me?
Comfortable and already worn-in hiking/walking boots are recommended, plus a spare pair of socks and some blister pads. Clothing wise, be sure to pack layers and a waterproof coat and trousers should the British weather decide to take a turn for the worst. Other things to take include:
A day pack with adjustable straps
Water bottle
Snacks
First Aid Kit
Sun protection
A printout of the walking route
How hard is the Tissington Trail and is it suitable for children?
Although 13 miles in length, the trail is almost entirely flat, and one of the easier Peak District Walks. There are some slight gradients around Mappleton but those with a general level of fitness shouldn’t experience any problems. Both families with children and dog walkers explore the trail regularly, the level track also makes it accessible for pushchairs. If the full 13 miles is too much for your younger ones, plan a distance you’d be comfortable walking and take along a picnic to enjoy on the way. Check out this Thimble and Twig blog on how to make walking outdoors fun for kids.
Hotels near the Tissington Trail
If you don’t feel like travelling after completing the trail – then worry not as we have three wonderful places close by for you to spend an evening celebrating your successful completion of the trail.
Just a stroll away from the splendour of Chatsworth House, The Devonshire Arms at Pilsley is a village Inn with charm by the pint. The comfortable, traditionally-styled country Inn rooms each feature stylish, understated décor and an intimate atmosphere. Perfect after a long day exploring.
The Devonshire Arms at Beeley is just a short walk from Chatsworth House, this Inn and its 18 beautiful en-suite bedrooms blend an idyllic village setting with contemporary comfort. Awarded five-star Inn status, and a Rosette by the AA, alongside recognition in the Michelin Guide, it’s clear to see that this Inn is serious about food. And with a selection of regional cask ales, as well as a selection of stylish bedrooms, you might end up staying for longer than you planned.
Located in one of the Peak District’s most picturesque villages, the blissfully luxurious Cavendish Hotel at Baslow is quite possibly the perfect countryside escape. From fine dining in the three AA Rosette Gallery Restaurant to relaxing in one of the 28 stylish, sumptuous bedrooms; the Cavendish has it all. Of course, the magnificent surrounding countryside will demand your attention, too.
