Attractions and Places To See around Shirland and Higham CP - Top 20

The area boasts impressive natural features. You can visit Black Rocks, a gritstone outcrop offering superb hiking and panoramic views towards Matlock Gorge. Another highlight is High Tor and Giddy Edge, which provides dramatic views over Matlock Bath. The parish also contains three designated Local Wildlife Sites: Windmill Field, Meadow Farm Meadow, and Station Road, Morton, recognized for their high-quality natural environment.

Yes, the region is excellent for hiking and cycling. You can explore the Forestry Commission woodlands of Cromford Moor from Black Rocks, or stride along the High Peak Trail. The Cromford Canal towpath offers a pretty and scenic stretch suitable for all. For more specific routes, you can find numerous options for hiking, road cycling, and gravel biking around Shirland and Higham CP.

Shirland and Higham CP is rich in history. You can see the historic market cross in Higham, a legacy from 1243, and the restored village cross in Shirland. St. Leonard's Church in Shirland, with foundations from 1220, is a significant architectural site. High Peak Junction is a historical site where the Old Cromford and High Peak railway met the Cromford Canal, now offering a museum and amenities. The village of Higham is also a conservation area with many ancient honey-coloured stone cottages.

Beyond the immediate parish, several impressive historical landmarks are within a few miles. These include the vast ruins of Wingfield Manor (3 miles), Hardwick Old Hall (5 miles), the imposing shell of Sutton Scarsdale Hall (7 miles), and the well-preserved Bolsover Castle (9 miles), known for its Elizabethan charm.

Yes, there are several options for families. High Peak Junction offers a museum and is a great starting point for walks or bike rides. The Cromford Canal towpath is a gentle, scenic walk suitable for all ages. Further afield, Hall Leys Park in Matlock is an attractive town park with amenities, and the Heights of Abraham offers cable car rides and cavern tours, which are popular with families.

Yes, some areas are accessible. High Peak Junction is noted as wheelchair accessible and offers amenities. The Cromford Canal towpath is also a gentle, flat route suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.

The region is enjoyable year-round for outdoor activities. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring trails and natural features. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter walks can be invigorating, especially in areas like Higham Country Park. Always check local conditions and wear appropriate footwear for hiking.

Amenities are available at key locations. High Peak Junction has a shop selling hot drinks and snacks, along with a museum and toilets. The nearby town of Matlock, home to Hall Leys Park, offers a host of amenities including cafes, pubs, restaurants, and independent shops, particularly around Dale Road and Crown Square.

Many of the outdoor trails around Shirland and Higham CP are dog-friendly, including sections of the High Peak Trail and the Cromford Canal towpath. High Peak Junction is also a dog-friendly spot. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially near livestock or in designated wildlife areas.

Beyond the main attractions, consider exploring the three designated Local Wildlife Sites within the parish: Windmill Field, Meadow Farm Meadow, and Station Road, Morton, for their natural beauty. You can also discover the history of the area through the Shirland and Higham Audio Trail, which guides visitors through various points of interest and local tales.

Visitors particularly enjoy the stunning views, especially from High Tor and Giddy Edge and Black Rocks. The peaceful and scenic nature of the Cromford Canal towpath is also highly appreciated for its gentle walks. The historical significance of sites like High Peak Junction and the overall opportunities for hiking and cycling in beautiful natural settings are frequently highlighted.