Attractions and Places To See around Elton - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Elton include a variety of historical sites, natural monuments, and scenic trails within the Peak District. This region offers opportunities to explore ancient stone circles, historic bridges, and unique river crossings. Visitors can experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage embedded in the landscape. Elton is a destination for those interested in outdoor exploration and historical discovery.
Best attractions and places to see around Elton
- The most popular attractions is Nine Ladies Stone Circle, a historical site in an atmospheric setting. This early Bronze Age stone circle is steeped in local legend.
- Another must-see spot is Sheepwash Bridge, Ashford in the Water, a man-made monument. This medieval bridge was historically used for washing sheep before shearing and is now a popular spot to observe the river.
- Visitors also love Dovedale Stepping Stones and the River Dove, a natural monument and river crossing. These stepping stones provide a unique way to traverse the River Dove amidst scenic surroundings.
- Elton is known for its historical sites, natural monuments, and scenic trails. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient stone circles to picturesque bridges and river landscapes.
- The attractions around Elton are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 600 upvotes and over 140 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
Sheepwash Bridge, Ashford in the Water
Highlight • Monument
In the 17th century, it was crossed each week by hundreds of pack horses. It has been widened at least twice and takes its name from the attached sheep pen. Sheep were driven into it before being thrown into the river and washed prior to shearing. The bridge is no longer open to traffic and is a favourite spot where visitors can either feed the ducks, or gaze down into the clear waters to see if they can spot a rainbow trout.
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Dovedale's stepping stones
Highlight • River
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Nine Ladies Stone Circle
Highlight • Historical Site
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Cork Stone
Highlight • Climb
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Monsal Trail Stone Arch Bridge
Highlight • Cycleway
The trail follows a section of the former Manchester, Buxton, Matlock and Midlands Junction Railway, which was built in 1863 to link Manchester with London. The line was closed in 1968 and remained unused for 12 years before being taken over by the Peak District National Park.
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Other adventures around Elton
Tips from the Community
Cork Stone is one of several interesting standing stones on Stanton Moor. It is 5m tall piece of weathered sandstone located above the remnants of a quarry site. At some point hollowed out steps and metal rings were added to allow people (kids and their grownups!) to climb to the top
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This stone circle from the Bronze Age, built thousands of years before the beginning of the Christian era, is neither as large nor nearly as famous as the legendary "Stonehenge" on the plains near Amesbury (which is, after all, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; if you're interested, see =>> https://www.komoot.com/de-de/highlight/960007 ), but this one can be visited without much tourist hustle and bustle, and it also has a much more interesting-sounding name...
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old train station car park starts on the monsal trail Check out the photos 📸
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A beautiful example of the local heritage
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One of the prettiest villages in the peaks, quiet as people drive past it to visit Bakewell .Nice spot by the river to refuel and enjoy the view.
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Ashford in the Water is a very pretty Peak District village. It's a nice detour off the A6 between Buxton and Bakewell. There is a nice tearoom and the medieval sheep wash bridge.
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Super family freindly away from traffic cycle way with cafes! Make sure you dodge them tourists!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit around Elton?
Elton is rich in history. You can explore the ancient Nine Ladies Stone Circle, an early Bronze Age site steeped in local legend. Another significant historical spot is the Sheepwash Bridge, Ashford in the Water, a medieval bridge once used for washing sheep before shearing.
Are there any natural monuments or unique geological features to see?
Yes, the area boasts several natural wonders. The Dovedale Stepping Stones and the River Dove offer a unique river crossing amidst stunning scenery and are known for their fossils. You can also visit the Cork Stone, an impressive natural rock outcrop on Stanton Moor with carved steps for climbing.
What outdoor activities can I do near Elton's attractions?
The region around Elton is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy gravel biking on routes like the Monsal Trail, explore various easy hiking trails, or go for a run on dedicated jogging paths. For more details on routes, check out the gravel biking guide, easy hikes guide, and running trails guide for Elton.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Elton?
Many attractions in the Elton area are suitable for families. The Dovedale Stepping Stones are a fun experience for all ages, and the Monsal Trail is a traffic-free path perfect for walking, cycling, or even horse riding with children. The Cork Stone also offers a fun climbing challenge for kids.
What is the Monsal Trail and what can I do there?
The Monsal Trail is an 8.5-mile (13.7 km) traffic-free path that follows a former railway line. It's ideal for walkers, cyclists, horse riders, and wheelchair users, winding through picturesque limestone dales and tunnels. It's an easygoing trail suitable for all ages and abilities, with parking and facilities available.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Elton?
Visitors frequently praise the atmospheric setting of the Nine Ladies Stone Circle and the historic beauty of the Sheepwash Bridge. The quirky crossing and stunning scenery at the Dovedale Stepping Stones are also highly popular, with many enjoying the chance to relive childhood fun.
Are there easy walking trails near Elton?
Yes, there are several easy walking trails. For example, you can find easy hikes around Stanton Moor, including loops that take you to the Nine Ladies Stone Circle and the Cork Stone. These routes are generally under 6 km and offer a pleasant way to explore the area. More options are available in the easy hikes guide for Elton.
Can I spot wildlife near Elton's attractions?
The area around the Dovedale Stepping Stones and the River Dove is known for its abundant wildlife, including an internationally important ancient ash woodland and wildflower-rich grasslands. You might also spot rainbow trout in the clear waters near the Sheepwash Bridge.
What is the best time to visit Elton's attractions?
To avoid crowds, especially at popular spots like the Dovedale Stepping Stones, it's best to visit early on a midweek spring morning, outside of school holidays. However, the historical sites and trails are enjoyable year-round, with each season offering a different charm.
Are there any accessible attractions for wheelchair users near Elton?
The Monsal Trail is a traffic-free path designed for walkers, cyclists, horse riders, and wheelchair users. Its compacted gravel surface and relatively easy gradient make it a good option for accessibility, allowing everyone to enjoy the picturesque dales and tunnels.
Where can I find cafes or refreshments near walking routes in the Elton area?
The village of Ashford in the Water, home to the Sheepwash Bridge, is a very pretty Peak District village with a nice tearoom. Along the Monsal Trail, you'll also find facilities, which often include refreshment stops.
Most popular attractions around Elton
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