Get More From Your Ashbourne Hot Tub Cottage Break
Booking cottages with hot tubs in Ashbourne gives you the perfect blend of Peak District adventure and pure relaxation. This historic market town sits right on the southern edge of the national park and offers everything from Georgian architecture to world-class cycling trails. You get proper countryside without feeling miles from anywhere.
We love Ashbourne for hot tub breaks because you can spend your days exploring limestone dales and your evenings soaking under the stars. The town itself has independent shops and proper pubs whilst the surrounding area delivers some of England's most dramatic scenery. Whether you're after romantic breaks or family getaways, this place delivers.
What to do on a family or couple's hot tub break in Ashbourne
Ashbourne earned its nickname as the Gateway to Dovedale for good reason. The town grew wealthy from the wool trade in medieval times and you can still see that prosperity in the elegant buildings lining Church Street and St John Street. The 212-foot spire of St Oswald's Church dominates the skyline and has done since the 13th century.
This is proper walking country with trails leading straight from town into the Peak District. The Tissington Trail runs for 13 miles along a former railway line and works brilliantly for families with young kids or anyone wanting flat cycling. Dovedale itself sits just three miles north and pulls in visitors year-round with its stepping stones and dramatic rock formations.
Sightseeing in Ashbourne
The town centre rewards a good wander. St Oswald's Church contains some exceptional monuments including the Cockayne Chapel with its alabaster tombs. The Gingerbread Shop on St John Street has been baking since 1805 using the same secret recipe. Market days happen on Thursdays and Saturdays when the cobbled marketplace fills with local producers.
Top 5 attractions you have to see in Ashbourne
We've picked out five must-visit spots that show off what makes this area special. Each one offers something different whether you're travelling with dogs, booking for a large family or planning a secluded retreat for 2.
Dovedale
This limestone valley ranks among England's most photographed landscapes. The stepping stones across the River Dove get busy but head further up the valley and you'll find peace. Thorpe Cloud rises 942 feet and the climb takes about 30 minutes with views that justify every step.
Tissington Trail
This traffic-free route follows the old railway line from Ashbourne to Parsley Hay. You can hire bikes in town and the gentle gradient makes it perfect for all abilities. The trail passes through Tissington village which is worth exploring for its well dressings and historic hall.
Carsington Water
Derbyshire's largest reservoir sits four miles southeast and offers 150 acres of water for sailing and windsurfing. The visitor centre has a café and the seven-mile perimeter path works well for walking or cycling. Bird hides dot the shoreline and you might spot ospreys during migration seasons.
Alton Towers
Britain's most famous theme park lies just 12 miles away. The resort includes hotels with swimming pool facilities and the Waterpark for rainy days. Booking in advance saves money and we'd suggest visiting midweek to avoid the longest queues.
Chatsworth House
The Duke of Devonshire's stately home sits 16 miles north and ranks among England's finest country houses. The 105-acre garden includes a maze and farmyard whilst the house displays Old Master paintings and sculpture. The estate has fishing lodges available for longer stays.
Don't Miss These...
| Attraction | What you'll experience | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Dovedale | Dramatic limestone valley with stepping stones and riverside walks through classic Peak District scenery | Everyone |
| Tissington Trail | Flat cycling and walking route along former railway with bike hire available in Ashbourne | Families |
| Carsington Water | Reservoir with watersports, walking trails and birdwatching hides around the shoreline | Families |
| Alton Towers | Major theme park with rollercoasters, hotels and waterpark facilities nearby | Families |
| Chatsworth House | Grand stately home with extensive gardens, art collections and working farmyard | Everyone |
Visitor FAQs
How do I get to Ashbourne?
The A52 connects Ashbourne to Derby in 30 minutes and Stoke-on-Trent in 40 minutes. No train station serves the town but buses run from Derby and other nearby cities. Most visitors drive as it gives you freedom to explore the surrounding dales.
What family activities work best around Ashbourne?
The Tissington Trail offers easy cycling for all ages. Carsington Water has a playground and visitor centre. Dovedale's stepping stones entertain kids for hours. Several farms nearby offer animal encounters and many holiday cottages welcome families with outdoor space.
Where should couples go for romantic spots?
Dovedale at sunset delivers proper romance especially beyond the stepping stones where crowds thin out. The Dining Room on St John Street serves excellent food in intimate surroundings. Book a cottage with hot tub in an isolated location and you've got everything you need.
What shopping options exist in Ashbourne?
Independent shops line the town centre selling antiques, books and local crafts. The Gingerbread Shop is famous for its traditional recipe. Thursday and Saturday markets bring local producers. You'll find supermarkets for self catering supplies too.
Are hot tub cottages suitable for last minute breaks?
Absolutely. We see good availability even for 1 night stays outside peak season. New Year and school holidays need advance booking but you can often find deals on boutique cottages and luxury lodges with private hot tubs. Pet friendly cottages with jacuzzi facilities are popular so book early if travelling with dogs.
Cottages with hot tubs in Ashbourne give you the best of both worlds. Spend your days walking the dales or visiting stately homes then return to your own private retreat. Whether you're after cheap cottages for a quick escape or large holiday houses for group celebrations, this corner of Derbyshire delivers proper countryside with all the comfort you need. The combination of natural beauty and quality places to stay makes it hard to beat for hot tub stays in the Peak District.