News 16 November 2023

Amazing views in Derwent Valley

Soak up the last of autumn's colours and take in some of Derbyshire finest views. Get there by train on the scenic Derwent Valley line, where you'll also get a great view from the train window.

The route descriptions here are a guide only, we recommend you take a map with you and plan your own route.

Pic Tor and High Tor, Matlock and Matlock Bath

These walks from Matlock and Matlock Bath stations respectively are steep, but worth the climb. For Pic Tor, leave Matlock station and make your way to Hall Leys Park. Signposts near the boating lake will direct you to the short but steep climb up Pic Tor, a limestone outcrop with a war memorial which marks the summit. Enjoy 360 degree views of Matlock, Riber Castle, Derwent Valley and the rolling Derbyshire Dales.
To visit High Tor, leave Matlock Bath station and turn right to head towards the Heights of Abraham cable car station. Continue straight on, passing the cable car station on your right. The entrance to High Tor recreation ground will soon appear. Once you’ve reached the top of the hill, you can look down on Matlock Bath as if it were a toy village, complete with model train set!

Black Rocks, Cromford

From Cromford Station, make your way to Cromford Wharf and follow the beautiful Cromford Canal for about 1.5miles to High Peak Junction. From here, the High Peak Trail is well signposted and will lead you up the steep former railway incline to Cromford Moor and Black Rocks. This stunning vantage point reveals a panoramic view of the fields, woods and river of Derwent Valley. Return to Cromford via footpaths or follow the B5036 and enjoy one of the village’s cafes or pubs before heading back to the station.

The Chevin, Belper

Head to this beautiful Belper viewpoint for scenes of rolling Derbyshire countryside, villages and River Derwent. From the station head to Belper River Gardens, then follow footpaths by the river bank and through fields, heading south. Head towards Chevin Road and up the hill of The Chevin, where you can walk along the ridge lined by trees and take in the scenery. Belper has a thriving independent high street so you’ll have plenty of venues to choose from if you fancy a bite to eat on the way back.

Attenborough Nature Reserve

Enjoy the reflections of trees and reeds in the peaceful water at Attenborough Nature Reserve. The reserve is a 10 minute, well-signposted walk from Attenborough station. This former gravel extraction site is now a haven for wildlife, especially water birds. Accessible paths of varying lengths take you around the reserve, for views of the River Trent, lakes, ponds and reedbeds. The Visitor Centre cafe windows are floor-to-ceiling, so you can even enjoy a lovely view as you enjoy some refreshments.

What are your favourite views in Derwent Valley? Let us know on Facebook, Instagram and X.

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