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United Kingdom
England
East Midlands
Derbyshire
Derbyshire Dales

Snelston

The best walks and hikes around Snelston

4.5

(2193)

15,220

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429

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Hikes around Snelston explore the rolling countryside of Derbyshire, situated near the southern edge of the Peak District National Park. The landscape is characterized by gentle farmland, historic parkland, and paths along the River Dove. These walking trails near Snelston Derbyshire offer a mix of riverside ambles and field-path routes connecting nearby villages.

Best hiking trails around Snelston

  • The most popular hiking route is Ashbourne Tunnel – Ashbourne Tunnel loop from Middle Mayfield, a 7.0 mile (11.3 km) trail…

Last updated: May 3, 2026

5.0

(3)

15

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#1.

Ashbourne Tunnel – Ashbourne Tunnel loop from Mayfield

11.3km

03:00

110m

110m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Tips from the Community

Richard
April 7, 2025, Ashbourne Tunnel

Old railway tunnel from Tissington trail to Ashbourne town

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Beautiful tunnel which is very photogenic from Ashbourne end

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The Ashbourne Tunnel runs below the town of Ashbourne itself, and serves as the begining – or, alternatively, the ending – of the Tissington Trail: a 13-mile hike, much of which comprises of disused railway lines, connecting the towns of Ashbourne and Parsley Hay. Recently renovated with speakers that transmit authentic steam-powered engine noise, Ashbourne Tunnel is a highly evocative experience that is sure to transport visitors back to the age of industry. Ashbourne was first included in the North Staffordshire Railway line in 1852, as the trade of limestone grew around the town. At the end of the 19th century, this line was taken over by the London & South Western line, who were seeking a line south of Buxton, and connected Ashbourne to the junction at Parsley Hay. This saw the construction of the Ashbourne Tunnel, which was first opened in 1899.

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Okeover Mill is a former water mill. Early C18 with later alterations and additions. Coursed limestone rubble with ashlar quoins and dressings, and red brick additions; clay tile roof; brick ridge stack.

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Okeover Hall is a privately owned Grade II* listed country house in Okeover, Staffordshire, England. It is the family seat of the Okeover family, who have been in residence since the reign of William Rufus. The house lies close to the border between Staffordshire and Derbyshire, which lies on the far side of the small River Dove. The Hall is not open to the public.

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St John the Baptist's Church is an Anglican church in the village of Mayfield, Staffordshire, England. It is a Grade I listed building. The core is a Norman church; it was extended in the early 14th century, and the tower built in 1515. There was a church in the village in Saxon times; the Domesday book, of 1086, recorded that there was a priest in the village, one of 25 recorded for Staffordshire. A simple rectangular stone building replaced the Saxon church about 1125. The south doorway (inside the later porch), with a well-preserved Norman arch, dates from this time. The nave, of three bays, is mainly Norman.

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Mayfield Yarns is a synthetic yarn manufacturer based in Mayfield, Staffordshire, with over 80 years of experience in the industry. The company is located in the Mayfield Mill, which has a long history of textile production dating back to 1795. In 1795 A cotton mill was built on an industrial site but in 1806 a fire destroyed much of the mill. It was rebuilt with a cast iron framework and brick vaulted ceilings. Brothers Joseph and George Simpson rebuilt and enlarged the mill in 1866. Mr C.H. Cowlishaw, a solicitor from Uttoxeter, purchased the mill in 1932 but sold it again two years later to William Tatton & Co. of Leek, and manufacturing switched to silk. In 1980 Mayfield Yarns began manufacturing and supplying synthetic yarns in the mill.

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The River Dove is the principal river of the southwestern Peak District, in the Midlands of England, and is around 45 miles (72 km) in length. It rises on Axe Edge Moor near Buxton and flows generally south to its confluence with the River Trent at Newton Solney. From there, its waters reach the North Sea via the Humber Estuary. For almost its entire course it forms the boundary between the counties of Staffordshire (to the west) and Derbyshire (to the east). The river meanders past Longnor and Hartington and cuts through a set of deep limestone gorges, Beresford Dale, Wolfscote Dale, Milldale and Dovedale

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the best place to park for walks around Snelston?

Parking in Snelston village is limited. For many routes, it's best to use car parks in the nearby town of Ashbourne, which serves as a great starting point for several trails. Some routes may begin near designated on-street parking in smaller villages, but always check for local restrictions and be considerate of residents.

Are there good circular walks in the Snelston area?

Yes, the region is ideal for circular walks. Many routes are designed as loops, combining riverside paths, field tracks, and quiet country lanes. A great example is the Mayfield Yarns Mill – River Dove at Mayfield loop from Ashbourne CP, which offers a varied circuit through the local landscape.

Are the hiking trails near Snelston suitable for dogs?

Many trails are dog-friendly, but you should be prepared for farmland. Expect to encounter livestock, so keeping your dog on a lead is essential. Paths crossing fields with cattle or sheep require dogs to be under close control at all times. Riverside paths are often a good choice, but always check for stiles that may not be dog-accessible.

What are some easy, family-friendly walks near Snelston?

The area offers several gentle walks perfect for families. The terrain is generally flat, especially along the River Dove. For an easy and enjoyable outing, consider the Staffordshire County Boundary – River Dove Weir loop from Middle Mayfield. It's a relatively short and flat route that follows the river, making it accessible for most abilities.

Can you recommend a walk that includes a pub stop?

Many walks start or pass through villages with traditional pubs. The nearby town of Ashbourne has numerous options for post-hike refreshments. While no specific routes are listed as 'pub walks', many trails originating from Ashbourne or passing through villages like Mayfield will put you in close proximity to a welcoming pub.

How can I incorporate the Tissington Trail into a walk?

The Tissington Trail, a traffic-free path on a former railway line, is easily accessible from Ashbourne. You can create a circular walk by combining a section of the trail with adjacent public footpaths. The Ashbourne Tunnel – Ashbourne Tunnel loop from Middle Mayfield is a perfect example, as it includes the impressive tunnel at the start of the trail.

What's the best way to experience a walk along the River Dove?

Numerous footpaths follow the River Dove, offering peaceful riverside scenery. For a classic Dove Valley experience, the River Dove – Okeover Mill loop from Ashbourne CP is an excellent choice. It's a mostly flat and easy walk that sticks close to the river, showcasing the quintessential countryside of the area.

Are there any options for longer hikes?

Yes, while many routes are moderate, you can find longer day hikes. The Mayfield Yarns Mill – Wellington LP397 Memorial loop from Edlaston and Wyaston CP is over 10 km and offers a more substantial challenge, taking you through varied terrain including fields and quiet lanes.

Are there any walks that take in local history?

Many walks pass through areas of historical interest. You'll find routes that go through Snelston's 'model village', past St. Peter's Church, and through the former Snelston Park estate with its famous monkey puzzle trees. Some routes also pass by historical markers like the Wellington LP397 Memorial.

How many hiking trails are there around Snelston?

There are over 400 hiking routes to explore around Snelston on komoot. They range from easy riverside strolls to more moderate circular hikes through the rolling Derbyshire farmland, so there's a trail for every fitness level.

What do other hikers think of the Snelston area?

The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 2,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful riverside paths along the Dove, the classic English countryside scenery, and the well-connected network of public footpaths.

Is Snelston accessible by public transport?

Snelston itself has very limited public transport. The best approach is to take a bus to the nearby market town of Ashbourne, which has better connections. From Ashbourne, you can access the start of many excellent walking trails, including the Tissington Trail and routes along the River Dove.

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