So many places to visit and explore during your stay.
Wooley Pingle is situated in the pretty Derbyshire village of Bonsall on the edge of the stunning Peak District National Park. There are so many reasons to visit our intriguing and characterful village. Bonsall itself is a quaint old lead mining village, there are tranquil walking trails, quaint sandstone cottages, and gorgeous gardens nestled along the tranquil lanes and hillsides.
Bonsall boasts of two noteworthy ‘claims to fame’. The region is said to have been a frequent site for UFO sightings, and a former pub owner used to organise UFO tours in the nearby moor. Additionally, the Barley Mow Pub, located just a few steps away from the Shepherd’s Hut, hosts the annual World Hen Racing Championship every first Saturday of August, which attracts a considerable number of curious onlookers.
If there’s one thing that really distinguishes Bonsall, it’s the people. They are so warm and friendly, with a real sense of community. So much goes on here – Open Gardens, Arts Trails, Carnival, Firework Displays and Well Dressings.
In the village, there are two pubs located within walking distance from the Shepherd’s Hut – the King’s Head and the Barley Mow. The Kings Head is a pub that welcomes families and serves Batemans’ real ales, and delicious home-cooked meals, and even has a hidden beer garden. On the other hand, the Barley Mow is a unique and bohemian freehold pub that is known to be the ‘best pub in the world’. They offer a great selection of well-kept ales and proper pub food with hearty portions. If you visit on a Saturday night, you can enjoy live music performances by some amazing bands.
The Fountain Café offers delicious breakfast, lunch, and cake options.
Walking and Cycling Enthusiasts.
The Limestone Way is a 43-mile walking trail running through the heart of the Peak District. Bonsall lies on this trail making Wooley Pingle a perfect spot to explore this route from. There are numerous footpaths and cycling routes from the Hut, it’s an ideal destination for those who want to park their car up for a few days and explore the are on foot or by bike.
Villages and Towns in the vicinity
Cromford is just down the road.
Cromford is renowned for its industrial legacy, showcased at the Cromford Mill, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can explore the area’s unique charm and character at the independent shops, cafes, and pubs located here. The Cromford Canal, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, is a 5-mile towpath stretching from Cromford to Ambergate. It offers a delightful experience with its abundance of wildlife, including dragonflies, moorhens, and water voles.
Matlock Bath – 2 miles away
Located in a picturesque limestone gorge, Matlock Bath has been a beloved tourist destination for centuries. Its charming streets are filled with a variety of shops, cafes, bars, and arcades, making it feel like a seaside town despite being landlocked. Visitors are drawn back year after year to enjoy the beautiful riverside walks and the unique atmosphere of this charming town.
Bakewell – 8 miles away
Nestled alongside the River Wye in the White Peaks of Derbyshire’s Peak District National Park, Bakewell is a delightful destination brimming with history and culture. With an abundance of activities and sights to enjoy; countless visitors are drawn to this picturesque town year after year. The stunning surrounding countryside provides the perfect backdrop for quaint tea rooms nestled in cosy courtyards, magnificent stone buildings, a traditional weekly market, a charming five-arched bridge dating back to Roman times, a Grade I listed church, a museum, historic almshouses, and a variety of riverside attractions.
A trip to Bakewell would not be complete without indulging in the town’s renowned delicacies. The Bakewell Tart, a delectable blend of almond paste and puff pastry, is a must-try dessert. Additionally, the town boasts of several artisan food producers, such as cheese makers, bakers, and brewers, providing ample opportunities to savour local specialities.
Ashbourne 12 miles away
Ashbourne is a market town. It has many historical buildings and independent shops. The town offers a historic annual Shrovetide football match. Its position near the southern edge of the Peak District makes it the closest town to Dovedale, to which Ashbourne is sometimes referred to as the gateway.
Local attractions
Chatsworth House
The local famous tourist spot is the stunning Chatsworth House, a grand residence situated just a few minutes drive away from the town. The house, built during the 16th century, is located in a picturesque park and showcases an array of art, furniture, and other valuable items. Guests can explore the house, and stroll through the gardens. There is a popular farm shop, café and brewery all within the Chatsworth Estate.
Haddon Hall
Haddon Hall, a medieval manor house located just outside of Bakewell. The house has a rich history and has been used as a film location for many movies and TV shows. Visitors can take a tour of the house and gardens, and there are also many events and activities held at the hall throughout the year.
National Trust Properties are all within easy distance of Bonsall
Calke Abbey is the house where time stood still, vividly portraying a period in the twentieth century when many country houses did not survive. The church and grounds are lovely to stroll around.
Kedleston Hall – is one of the finest and most complete examples of an 18th-century show palace and parkland in Britain. Step inside and discover the Curzon family’s collection of fine art, furniture, and Asian objects. Here’s what to look out for when you visit the hall.
Hardwick Hall is one of the finest Elizabethan buildings in the country, full of architectural and artistic delights from Elizabethan embroidery to forties furnishing, a walk through the Hall is very enjoyable.
Walking/ cycling areas/outdoor tourist areas – within 20 miles
- Dovedale
- Monsal Dale – inc the trail & viaduct
- Tissington Trail
- Manifold Valley
Carsington Water – Explore a vast reservoir surrounded by wildflower meadows, native ponds, and reedbeds, where you can observe buzzards, kingfishers, and lapwings. Birdwatching enthusiasts will appreciate the RSPB shop and hide. The area is ideal for walking, cycling, and various watersports. The perfect destination for nature lovers.