Throughout the Peak District are dozens of picturesque villages which are perfect for a day trip or to visit while out on a hike. With charming stone cottages surrounded by gorgeous countryside, they feel like a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Nestled in the Derbyshire Dales is the pretty village of Tissington, known as one of the ‘southern gateways’ to the Peak District. It was even described by one tourist visiting the area as a place which feels like “you’re stepping back in time”.
Located near Ashbourne, it features beautiful cottages built around an old hall, a fine church and duck pond. As soon as you arrive in Tissington you’re blown away by how idyllic it is. Our friends at Derbyshire Live reckon it’s worth paying this beautiful village - around a 90 minute drive from Manchester - a visit.
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From the main gates on the A515 Ashbourne to Buxton Road an elegant avenue of lime trees leads to the first of the pretty cottages alongside the broad wayside lawns. The village has been the home of the Fitzherbert family for over 400 years and it is their splendid Jacobean residence at the Hall that forms the centrepiece of the stunning picture that is Tissington.
Grace Brooks, 34, from Swadlincote, was visiting or a day trip. She said she has been before but keeps coming back because of how "friendly the people are" and to support the "excellent" local businesses.
Some of the fantastic independent businesses on offer in Tissington include Herbert's Fine English Tearooms which is the perfect place to relax with family and friends. Its quirky décor and array of vintage crockery is sure to charm any visitors.
Anyone visiting before the end of September also needs to visit Edwards & Vintage sweet shop in the heart of the village. Unfortunately the "magical" shop is shutting soon but its popularity is unrivalled having welcomed a series of famous faces over the years, including the likes of actress Joanna Lumley, and TV Presenters Christine Bleakly and Anna Richardson.
The shop sells traditional sweets, as well as handmade ice cream and handmade fudge. The biggest attraction of the village is undoubtedly Tissington Hall, which is open to visitors at certain times.
One elderly local said the village does attract a lot of visitors but any tourist always "respect the unchanged nature" of the village and he has never had to complain about people's behaviour.
The tradition of well dressing is said to have originated here and on Ascension Day, five wells are decorated in a floral tribute to God for the gift of water. The Tissington Trail for walkers, cyclists and horse riders passes by the village, where there is parking and a picnic site.
The route follows the old Buxton to Ashbourne railway line passing through some spectacular scenery. The Limestone Way footpath goes through Tissington and there are good routes all around for ramblers.
For all its positives, and there are many, it is worth noting that any pub enthusiasts will be left a little disappointed as there is no pub in the village.
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