Attractions and Places To See around Uttoxeter Rural - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Uttoxeter Rural include historical sites and natural landscapes. The region features a blend of cultural heritage and accessible natural spaces, making it suitable for those seeking both historical exploration and easy walks near Uttoxeter Rural. It provides a setting for discovering local history and engaging with the natural environment.
Best attractions and places to see around Uttoxeter Rural
- The most popular attraction is Ramblers Retreat, a historical site that was originally a gatehouse within the Alton Towers Estate. It is now a cafe known for its locally sourced food and serves as a starting point for many walks.
- Another must-see spot is The Chained Oak, a natural monument with a local legend about a curse and an Earl. The oak tree remains chained, reflecting the historical folklore of the area.
- Visitors also love Croxden Abbey Ruins, a religious building and historical site. These 12th-century Cistercian abbey ruins are managed by English Heritage and offer insight into medieval monastic life.
- Uttoxeter Rural is known for its historical sites, natural monuments, and family-friendly attractions. The area offers a variety of places to see and explore, catering to different interests.
- The attractions around Uttoxeter Rural are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 120 upvotes and 30 photos contributed by visitors.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
Ramblers Retreat
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Dimmingsdale Mill Pond
Highlight • Structure
Lead smelting mill described as new in 1741 and converted to corn grinding in 1784. Single high breast water wheel and three pairs of stones.
The Alton Mill, situated at the mouth of Dimmingsdale, is still known at the Smelting Mill even though it had longers use as a corn mill. In 1741 Geroge Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury, leased out a 'newly erected building for the smelthing of lead commonly called a smelting mill, refinery and slag hearth...' at Alton Common. In 1760 lead was still being smelted and the site had a smiths shop, two houses, a barn, nine acres and a pool. The will of Edward Coyney, 1772, mentions his share in the mill along with his share in the mines at Ecton, which is the most likely source for the lead being produced at Dimmingsdale.
Source: Churnet Valley Guide
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Croxden Abbey Ruins
Highlight • Religious Site
Now managed by English Heritage it's open 10:00 - 17:00 everyday. Entry is free.
Tip by
The Chained Oak
Highlight • Natural
The coach stopped to find why she was there at which point the old woman begged for a coin.
The Earl cruelly dismissed her, so the old woman stated that she would place a curse on him.
The old woman told the Earl that for every branch on the Old Oak Tree that fell, a member of the Earl’s family would die.
The Earl dismissed this and carried on his way.
That the same night, a violent storm caused a single branch from the old oak tree to break and fall.
Later that evening, a member of the Earl’s family suddenly and mysteriously died.
Now firmly believing the power of the curse, the Earl is said to have ordered his servants to chain every branch together to prevent other branches from falling."
The Oak tree remains chained up.
Tip by
Uttoxeter Canal Remains
Highlight • Historical Site
Today not much of the old canal is visible because it was filled in during the construction of the railway. There is talk of restoring the canal.
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Uttoxeter Rural.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Worth a stop and have a wonder around. plenty to see. 10-15 minutes is enough.
0
0
Croxden Abbey, also known as "Abbey of the Vale of St. Mary at Croxden", was a Cistercian abbey. A daughter house of the abbey in Aunay-sur-Odon, Normandy, the abbey was founded by Bertram III de Verdun of Alton Castle, Staffordshire, in the 12th century. The abbey was dissolved in 1538. In 1176, Bertram III de Verdun, the lord of the manor of Croxden, endowed a site for a new abbey near Alton, Staffordshire, to a group of 12 Cistercian monks from Aunay-sur-Odon, Normandy. Bertram founded the abbey, like many noblemen of his time, for the souls of his family. The monks remained at the Alton site until 1179, before moving to land near Croxden, a few miles south. Croxden was relatively prosperous, drawing the majority of its wealth from sheep farming. By 1315, the monks were supplying more wool to the continent than any other religious house in the county, with transactions being recorded with Florentine merchants well into the 1420s.
0
0
The Uttoxeter Canal was built as an extension to the Caldon Canal. It was completed in 1811. The canal was short lived, closing in 1849 to enable the building of the Churnet Valley railway line. The railway closed in the early 1900's after the closure of the quarries. Today not much of the old canal is visible because it was filled in during the construction of the railway. There is talk of restoring the canal.
1
0
Croxden Abbey was built in the 12th centaury as the home of 70 Cistercian monks. It was converted to a farm after the suppression of the monasteries in 1538. Remains of the church, infirmary and abbots house remain. Now managed by English Heritage it's open 10:00 - 17:00 everyday. Entry is free.
0
0
Nothing much to see anymore besides a length of grasses behind barbed wire as it goes boggy in wet weather.
7
0
Uttoxeter Canal was not a financial success, and the Trent and Mersey Company made plans to close it. However, the canal company was taken over by the North Staffordshire Railway, and with the exception of the first lock and the basin at Froghall, which remained in use until about 1930, the canal was closed by the railway company on 15 January 1849. A large part of it was subsequently filled in, and used for the route of the Churnet Valley railway line. Source: Wikipedia
8
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Uttoxeter Rural?
Uttoxeter Rural offers several historical sites. You can visit the 12th-century Cistercian Croxden Abbey Ruins, managed by English Heritage, which provides insight into medieval monastic life. Another notable spot is Ramblers Retreat, originally a gatehouse within the Alton Towers Estate. You can also find remnants of the Uttoxeter Canal, a short-lived waterway closed in 1849.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Uttoxeter Rural area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Ramblers Retreat is a family-friendly cafe and a starting point for walks. Dimmingsdale Mill Pond is a popular spot for walkers within National Trust's Dimmingsdale. The Croxden Abbey Ruins also welcome families to explore the historical grounds.
Where can I find easy walks or beginner hiking trails near Uttoxeter Rural?
For easy walks and beginner trails, consider exploring the area around Croxden Abbey Ruins, where you can find routes like the 'Croxden Abbey Ruins – Croxden Abbey Ruins loop from Croxden' (5.4 km). Many easy routes are available, such as the 'Uttoxeter Town Centre loop from Uttoxeter' (4.2 km). You can find more options in the Easy hikes around Uttoxeter Rural guide.
Are there any natural monuments or unique natural features to see?
Absolutely. A unique natural monument is The Chained Oak, which comes with a local legend about a curse and an Earl. Its branches remain chained, reflecting the historical folklore of the area. Additionally, Dimmingsdale Mill Pond offers a picturesque natural setting for walks.
What outdoor activities, like cycling or mountain biking, are available near these attractions?
The area around Uttoxeter Rural is great for outdoor activities. For cycling, you can find routes like 'Uttoxeter to Ashbourne via Alton Towers' or 'Earl's Road Gravel Track – Ramblers Retreat Café loop from Uttoxeter'. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore trails such as the 'Churnet Valley cyclepath loop' or 'Ramblers Retreat – Toothill Wood loop from Upper Tean'. Discover more routes in the Cycling around Uttoxeter Rural and MTB Trails around Uttoxeter Rural guides.
Are there cafes or places to eat near the walking routes?
Yes, Ramblers Retreat is a popular cafe known for its locally sourced food and serves as an excellent starting point or stop for many walks in Dimmingsdale. It's a convenient option for refreshments during your outdoor adventures.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Uttoxeter Rural?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical exploration and accessible natural spaces. The Ramblers Retreat is loved for its superb location for walks and locally sourced food. The rich history of sites like Croxden Abbey Ruins and the intriguing folklore of The Chained Oak also captivate many.
Are there any alternatives to Alton Towers for family entertainment nearby?
While Alton Towers is a major attraction, Uttoxeter Rural offers different types of family entertainment focused on history and nature. Places like Croxden Abbey Ruins and Dimmingsdale Mill Pond provide opportunities for exploration and walks in a natural setting, offering a more relaxed and historical experience compared to a theme park.
Can I find circular walks in the Uttoxeter Rural area?
Yes, there are several circular walks available. For example, you can find a 'Croxden Abbey Ruins – Croxden Abbey Ruins loop from Croxden' which is an easy 5.4 km route. Many of the hiking guides for the region, such as the Easy hikes around Uttoxeter Rural guide, feature circular routes that allow you to start and end at the same point.
Are there any scenic viewpoints in Uttoxeter Rural?
While specific designated 'viewpoints' are not highlighted, the natural landscapes around attractions like Dimmingsdale Mill Pond and the surrounding Dimmingsdale area offer picturesque scenery and pleasant views during walks. The historical setting of Croxden Abbey Ruins also provides scenic backdrops.
What are some lesser-known or 'hidden gems' in the Uttoxeter Rural area?
Beyond the more popular spots, the remnants of the Uttoxeter Canal offer a glimpse into local industrial history, though not much is visible today. The folklore surrounding The Chained Oak also makes it a unique, intriguing stop that might be considered a hidden gem for those interested in local legends.
Most popular routes around Uttoxeter Rural
Most popular attractions around Uttoxeter Rural
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
