4.5
(460)
4,614
hikers
21
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Ashbourne offer access to the southern fringes of the Peak District National Park. The region is characterized by rolling hills of the White Peak, limestone gorges, and river valleys. Hikers can explore diverse landscapes including woodlands, former railway lines, and open countryside. This area provides a blend of gentle strolls and moderate ascents.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
14
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
17
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
5.0
(2)
11
hikers
7.50km
01:58
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
5.80km
01:34
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
8.48km
02:19
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
In the Memorial gardens, on the corner of Cokayne Avenue and Park Road, you will find the impressive sandstone gateway to the park, comprising a classical arch with pillars and fluted columns, welcoming visitors to the ornate formal gardens planted in memory of Ashbourne’s war casualties. Pass the bandstand site and in the other corner of the gardens is a statue of the Salvation Army co-founder, Catherine Booth, who was born in Ashbourne. The Henmore Brook flows just beyond the playground, giving lots of opportunities to spot wildlife on Fishpond Meadow.
0
0
Described by the writer George Eliot as “the finest mere parish church in the Kingdom”, St Oswald’s Church has a slender spire 212 feet high and was once a candidate to be the cathedral for the Derby Diocese.
0
0
One of the grandest churches in Derbyshire, with a slender spire of 212 feet. Referred to in the Doomsday book, the present church building dates from the mid 1200's and contains fine stained glass and monuments. Evidence of a Norman Crypt was found during renovation works in the early 20th Century but the existing church dates from the early 1200s and the 1241 dedicated plaque is believed to be the oldest in Britain. The oldest parts of the present building are the chancel (eastern end of the church containing the altar) and the transepts (the arms of the church), which were built in the first half of the 13th Century. The main part of the nave was added in the mid-thirteen century and was widened in the late 13th Century by the addition of south aisle when a tower was also added; a north aisle was never built, possibly because of the impact of the Black Death. The last major construction was the spire, which was built in the early in the C14th.
0
0
The nearby village of Shirley was once the seat of Earl Ferrers and the Shirley family. The parkland and woods of the estate is still called Shirley Park although the grand house is no longer evident. Walking through the woodland and along the lake side is aa nice change to the farmland of the area. The woods make a great loop either from Shirley or for a longer walk from Ashbourne.
1
0
A massive old Oak tree next to the path between Osmaston and Ashbourne.
0
0
A nice country pub with long term staff who know the area well. They serve classic pub food, drinks and snacks and have indoor or outdoor seating. Open Mon to Fri: 11:30 - 14:30 & 18:00 - 23:00. Sat & Sun: 12:00 - 23:00.
1
0
Great coffee stop - Caravan Roaster & San Remo machines. If you ask they'll let you carry your bike through to the back which is covered & well appointed.
0
0
There are over 20 hiking trails accessible directly from bus stations in and around Ashbourne, offering a variety of experiences for all skill levels.
Yes, Ashbourne offers several easy routes perfect for families. For example, the Ashbourne Town Centre – View of St Oswald’s Church loop is a gentle 4.5 km walk, ideal for a relaxed outing. The area's former railway lines, like the Tissington Trail, also provide flat, traffic-free paths suitable for all ages.
Absolutely. Many of the trails are circular, allowing you to start and end your hike conveniently at the bus station. The Shoulder of Mutton Pub loop is a popular 7.5 km circular route that offers a pleasant walk with the option of a pub stop.
Hikes vary in length and duration. You can find shorter walks like the Ashbourne Town Centre loop, which is about 4.5 km and takes just over an hour. For longer excursions, routes like the Osmaston Park Sawmill loop extend to nearly 10 km, taking around 2.5 to 3 hours to complete.
Yes, for those seeking a bit more challenge, there are moderate trails available. The The Swan – Ashbourne Memorial Gardens loop is a moderate 8.4 km route that offers varied terrain and takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes.
Ashbourne's trails often lead to stunning natural features and historical sites. You can encounter the iconic Dovedale's stepping stones, explore the dramatic limestone gorge of Dovedale, or climb Thorpe Cloud for panoramic views. Many routes also pass through picturesque woodlands and past historic churches like St Oswald's Church.
Yes, some routes will take you near beautiful water features. For instance, the Osmaston Park Sawmill – Shirley Park Woodland and Pond loop includes views of Shirley Park Woodland and Pond, offering tranquil waterside scenery.
The bus-accessible trails around Ashbourne are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 450 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, the ease of access from public transport, and the well-maintained paths that lead through charming villages and stunning natural beauty.
The best time to visit Ashbourne for hiking is generally during spring and summer, when the weather is most favorable and wildflowers are in bloom, particularly in areas like Dovedale. Autumn also offers spectacular scenery with vibrant foliage. While winter walks are possible, be prepared for colder, potentially wetter conditions.
Yes, you can certainly combine your hike with a visit to a local pub. The Shoulder of Mutton Pub loop is specifically designed to incorporate a pub stop, offering a refreshing break during your walk.
Ashbourne is known as the gateway to the White Peak, characterized by its limestone geology. Trails in areas like Dovedale and Wolfscote Dale will immerse you in this unique landscape, featuring impressive limestone gorges, craggy edges, and the scenic River Dove.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.