Attractions and Places To See around Marston On Dove - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Marston On Dove include a blend of historical landmarks and natural features. Situated on the banks of the River Dove, which forms the boundary between Derbyshire and Staffordshire, the village is surrounded by picturesque countryside. The area offers access to various points of interest, from ancient churches to unique natural formations.
Best attractions and places to see around Marston On Dove
- The most popular attractions is Longford Old Mill, a former water mill that is now a private residence with its original water wheel visible. It is a Grade II listed building.
- Another must-see spot is Anchor Church Caves, naturally formed caves that were extended to create a dwelling. These caves were later enhanced in the 1840s for use as a summerhouse and picnic spot.
- Visitors also love Ferry Bridge, a Victorian footbridge over the River Trent. It is notable for being the first and only semi-suspension bridge of its kind in Europe.
- Marston On Dove is known for its historical sites, natural landscapes, and outdoor activity hubs. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, including Grade I and II listed buildings and a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
- The attractions around Marston On Dove are appreciated by the komoot community, with 86 upvotes and 13 photos shared.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Longford Old Mill
Highlight • Structure
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Ferry Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Built to replace a small ferry service that had operated at the same site since the 13th century. and gifted to the town by brewing magnate Michael Arthur Bass, later Lord Burton.
The bridge is a "semi-suspension" bridge, of which this is the first and only one of its kind in Europe to be built to this design.
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Anchor Church Caves
Highlight • Historical Site
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Mickleover Greenway (National Cycle Network Route 54)
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Large number of benches along the way for resting.
As an old railway line, gradient is very gradual. Very suitable place for family cycle rides as completely motor traffic free. Free parking available at the Mickleover (north) end.
Cafes near southern end (Don Amotts caravan centre) and pub near northern end (Great Northern)
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Radbourne Estate Parkland
Highlight • Historical Site
Radbourne Hall was built between 1739 and 1745 and is located within the park.
Radbourne Park is a 600-acre parkland surrounding Radbourne Hall, an 18th-century country house, and was originally landscaped in 1790 by William Emes.
The park was designed by William Emes, a distinguished Derbyshire landscaper, in 1790.
A ten-year restoration plan began in 2003 to restore the park to its original 1790 design.
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Tips from the Community
It’s a great ride along country lanes and very little traffic.
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The Manor of Radbourne has been held by the Chandos family since the Norman Conquest. Radbourne Hall was built between 1739 and 1745 and is located within the park. Radbourne Park is a 600-acre parkland surrounding Radbourne Hall, an 18th-century country house, and was originally landscaped in 1790 by William Emes. The park was designed by William Emes, a distinguished Derbyshire landscaper, in 1790. A ten-year restoration plan began in 2003 to restore the park to its original 1790 design.
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Ferry Bridge is a pretty Victorian foot bridge over the River Trent. Built to replace a small ferry service that had operated at the same site since the 13th century. and gifted to the town by brewing magnate Michael Arthur Bass, later Lord Burton. The bridge is a "semi-suspension" bridge, of which this is the first and only one of its kind in Europe to be built to this design.
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Anchor Church caves are found in a Sandstone outcrop, close to Ingleby. The naturally formed caves have been extended by to form a dwelling (likely a hermitage around the 8th/9th century), complete with door and window holes. In more recent history (1840's) the owners of Foremarke Hall undertook some additional enhancements so they could use the caves as a summerhouse and picnic spot.
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This former water mill was built in 1837. It's now a grade 2 listed private residence. It still has the original water wheel which you can see but it no longer works.
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The Ferry Bridge is a pedestrian bridge over the River Trent. It was opened in 1889 and replaced a small ferry service that had run since the 13th century. It's a semi-suspension bridge and was the only one of this design to be built in Europe.
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Interesting rock formations but covered in graffiti, unfortunately.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I visit in Marston On Dove?
Marston On Dove is rich in history. You can explore St. Mary's Church, a Grade I listed building from the 13th century known for its stained glass and ancient bell. The churchyard also features a Grade II listed lychgate. Additionally, The Hall, a Grade II listed country house, adds to the village's historical charm.
Are there natural attractions to explore near Marston On Dove?
Yes, the village is nestled on the banks of the River Dove, offering picturesque views and forming the boundary between Derbyshire and Staffordshire. The Old River Dove Site within the village is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). For a unique natural and historical experience, visit the Anchor Church Caves, naturally formed caves extended into a hermitage.
What outdoor activities are available around Marston On Dove?
The Dove Valley Centre in the village offers various outdoor activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and rock climbing. The surrounding picturesque countryside is ideal for walks with valley and parkland views along the River Dove. For more structured outdoor adventures, you can find numerous hiking routes and road cycling routes in the area.
Are there family-friendly places to visit in the area?
Absolutely. The Mickleover Greenway (National Cycle Network Route 54) is an old railway line converted into a traffic-free multi-user path, perfect for family cycling or walks. The Dove Valley Centre also offers educational programs including nature walks suitable for families. Slightly further afield, Sudbury Hall and Museum of Childhood provides an engaging historical experience for all ages.
Where can I find walking or cycling trails near Marston On Dove?
You'll find plenty of options. The Mickleover Greenway offers a gentle, traffic-free route through the Derbyshire countryside, ideal for both walking and cycling. For more extensive options, explore easy hiking trails or road cycling routes that start near Marston On Dove.
What is unique about Ferry Bridge?
The Ferry Bridge is a Victorian footbridge over the River Trent, notable for being the first and only 'semi-suspension' bridge of its kind in Europe with this specific design. It replaced a ferry service that had operated since the 13th century.
What is the significance of Longford Old Mill?
The Longford Old Mill is a former water mill built in 1837. Now a Grade II listed private residence, its original water wheel is still visible, making it a popular spot for visitors to admire its historical architecture.
Are there any accessible routes for prams or wheelchairs?
Yes, the Mickleover Greenway, an old railway line, provides a very gradual gradient and is suitable for prams and wheelchairs, offering a traffic-free experience through the countryside. The Ferry Bridge is also noted as wheelchair accessible.
What is the best time of year to visit Marston On Dove for outdoor activities?
The picturesque countryside around Marston On Dove attracts visitors throughout the year. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking and cycling, with lush greenery. Autumn brings beautiful colours to the landscape. While winter can be muddy, the area still offers scenic walks, especially along the River Dove.
What kind of wildlife can be spotted near the River Dove?
The River Dove and its surrounding countryside are home to diverse flora and fauna. As an SSSI, the Old River Dove Site indicates a rich ecological area. Visitors can often spot various bird species, insects, and aquatic life, especially during seasonal changes.
Are there other notable historical sites slightly further afield?
Yes, a short distance away in Staffordshire, you can visit Tutbury Castle, a historic castle with a rich past. Also, the 600-acre Radbourne Estate Parkland, originally landscaped in 1790, surrounds Radbourne Hall, an 18th-century country house.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions here?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical sites and natural beauty. The Longford Old Mill is a popular photo opportunity, and the Ferry Bridge is admired for its unique engineering. The traffic-free nature of the Mickleover Greenway is highly valued for family outings.
Most popular attractions around Marston On Dove
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