{{filter.label}}

Discover Ashbourne: The perfect base for your next holiday

Loading properties

No properties were found

Welcome to Ashbourne, the "Gateway to the Peaks"


Set in the Derbyshire Dales, this market town is a perfect blend of Georgian elegance and rugged outdoorsmanship.

History: Stepping back in time


Ashbourne's history dates back to the Domesday Book, but its golden age was the 18th century. As an important social hub between London and Northern Ireland, it became a favourite stop for literary greats such as Samuel Johnson and Lord Byron.

The town is famously home to the Royal Shrovetide Football, a medieval "football" match that has been played since at least 1667. It involves the entire town being transformed into a pitch as two teams (the Up'Ards and the Down'Ards) battle it out over a leather ball for two days.

Description: A picturesque escape


Walking through Ashbourne feels like wandering through a living postcard. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing holiday or a summer break. The town is renowned for its stunning architecture and boasts over 200 listed buildings.

You’ll find charming cobbled streets, hidden courtyards and a high street lined with independent shops. Whether you’re looking for a sightseeing adventure or a quiet retreat in a cosy inn, the atmosphere here is quintessentially British and incredibly welcoming.

Typical foods: Local flavours


Ashbourne Gingerbread: Unlike the hard biscuits you may be familiar with, the traditional local recipe is softer and more aromatic. It was supposedly introduced by French prisoners during the Napoleonic Wars.

Derbyshire Oatcakes: These are tasty, pancake-like wraps made from oatmeal, flour and yeast - traditionally filled with bacon and cheese.

Hartington Stilton: Just up the road is the village of Hartington, famous for its world-class blue cheese.

Activities and Nature


Ashbourne is a haven for nature lovers.

Tissington Trail: A 21km traffic-free path, perfect for cycling and walking. It follows an old railway line and offers flat paths with breathtaking views.

Dovedale: Just a few miles away, this iconic valley features the famous Stepping Stones over the River Dove and dramatic limestone cliffs.

St Oswald's Church: Described by George Eliot as the "finest parish church in the whole kingdom", its 65m spire dominates the skyline.

Festivals and Events


Royal Shrovetide Football (February/March): A wild, chaotic and fascinating tradition where the town is shut down for a massive match that lasts for several days.

Ashbourne Festival (June/July): A celebration of the arts with street performers, live music and literature.

Ashbourne Show (August): A classic agricultural show highlighting the best of Derbyshire farming, livestock and local crafts.
Click to show the map