Attractions and places to see around Stanley And Stanley Common offer a blend of historical sites, natural landscapes, and family-friendly activities in Derbyshire. This area provides access to intriguing landmarks and peaceful natural features. Visitors can explore easy walking routes through woodlands and around reservoirs, discovering the region's unique heritage. The diverse terrain and viewpoints make it a destination for various outdoor pursuits.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
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Midshires Way — An epic hike through England's rural heart
Hiking around Stanley And Stanley Common
Cycling around Stanley And Stanley Common
Running Trails around Stanley And Stanley Common
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One of England’s smallest and most unique parish churches, measuring just 25 by 26 feet. Dating back to the mid-12th century, it is literally semi-detached, sharing a roof and a wall with a private, historic farmhouse. Originally functioning as the infirmary chapel for the neighboring, now-ruined medieval abbey, the adjoining house was later used as a pub called the "Blue Bell Inn". Legend has it the vicar used to change in the pub's bar and nip through a gallery door to preach. Despite its size, the interior houses well-preserved, late 13th-century wall paintings depicting the Annunciation, Visitation, and Nativity. The chapel is packed with historic character, including a prominent 1634 pulpit placed behind the altar, tiered gallery seating, and 17th-century box pews. The surrounding village and abbey ruins are famously known in folklore as the site where Allan-a-Dale married his sweetheart in the Robin Hood legend.
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Nice cafe with friendly staff. Good mid walk stops while exploring the local reservoirs and Shipley Country Park. Open Fri: 9:30 - 14:30. Sat & Sun: 9:00 - 16:00.
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"The wood contains the Hermitage which was made around 1130 AD by a Derby Baker called Cornelius who had a vision to worhip God here at Deepdale, as the area was formely known."
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A really beautiful spot full of history! Make sure you were good hiking shoes, as there is a lot of steps on routes nearby, which can be treacherous with a mix of recent rain and wet leaves!
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end 2021 update: The cafe has created a new area outside to extend the number of picnic tables with umbrellas - probably to meet the demand for outside eating due to Covid. The cafe remains a great destination for a bike ride or walk (or even horse ride).
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The area is rich in history. You can visit the intriguing Hermitage Cave (Hermit's Wood, Derby), carved by a local baker in the 12th century for solitary prayer. Another significant site is the Dale Abbey Arch, the impressive remains of a 13th-century Premonstratensian abbey. Additionally, Elvaston Castle and Gardens offers a Gothic Revival castle and historical gardens to explore.
Yes, Mapperley Reservoir is a peaceful body of water surrounded by woodlands and farmland, excellent for wildlife spotting, especially birdwatching. Keep an eye out for coot, moorhen, mallard, and kingfisher. The wider Derbyshire region also provides access to the stunning Peak District National Park, known for its breathtaking views and diverse wildlife.
Families can enjoy the natural beauty and birdwatching at Mapperley Reservoir. Elvaston Castle and Gardens is also family-friendly, offering extensive parkland and gardens to explore. For more active fun, nearby attractions include Bluebell Dairy, Moorways Sports Village and Water Park, Injoy Derby, Rollerworld of Derby, and Gulliver's Kingdom Theme Park, all catering to families with children.
You can enjoy walks around Mapperley Reservoir, which offers peaceful trails through woodlands and farmland. The area around Hermitage Cave also provides interesting routes, though some may require good hiking shoes due to steps. For more structured hiking, explore the various running trails around Stanley And Stanley Common, many of which are suitable for walking.
Yes, Elvaston Castle and Gardens is a popular destination for cyclists, offering flat, traffic-free routes from Derby. The Nutbrook Coffee Shop is conveniently located right next to Sustrans Route 67, making it a great mid-ride stop. You can also find various gravel biking and road cycling routes around Stanley And Stanley Common.
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty. The historical sites like Hermitage Cave and Dale Abbey Arch are valued for their rich past. The peaceful environment and wildlife spotting at Mapperley Reservoir are also highly rated, as are the family-friendly amenities and cycling opportunities at Elvaston Castle and Gardens.
Yes, the Nutbrook Coffee Shop is a great spot for a mid-walk or mid-cycle stop, known for its friendly staff and good selection of cakes. It's open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Elvaston Castle and Gardens also features a cafe within its country park.
Beyond the main highlights, the area around Dale Abbey village holds other historical sites and parts of the old abbey built into nearby houses. The region's coal mining heritage is also evident around Mapperley Reservoir, offering glimpses into the industrial past.
While specific accessible routes are not detailed, Elvaston Castle and Gardens is known for its flat, traffic-free routes, making it a good option for easier exploration. Many of the paths around Mapperley Reservoir are also generally gentle, suitable for leisurely strolls.
A short drive away, you can explore the Midland Railway-Butterley for railway and transport attractions, or visit Poole's Cavern & Buxton Country Park to discover a fascinating cave system. Cromford Mills offers insight into the history of the Derwent Valley, and Chatsworth House is a lavish stately home with extensive grounds and art collections.
Absolutely! There are several running trails around Stanley And Stanley Common, catering to various difficulty levels. Routes like the 'Park Hall Pods Glamping Site – One Man and His Dog Sculpture loop' offer easy options, while others provide moderate challenges through scenic landscapes.
The terrain around Stanley And Stanley Common is diverse. You'll find peaceful woodlands and rolling farmland around Mapperley Reservoir. Walks to Hermitage Cave may involve steps and can be treacherous when wet, so good hiking shoes are recommended. Generally, the area offers a mix of easy, flat paths and more intermediate routes with varied elevations.


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