Throughout the Peak District there are lots of pretty villages nestled in the breathtaking scenery. But there’s one tiny village located in a country estate just outside of the national park.
Imagine thatched cottages and a pretty pond with ducks floating among the reeds - it sounds like a scene from a fairy tale. It’s what you’ll find at the stunning village of Osmaston.
Located south east of Ashbourne, it’s just under two hours' drive away from Manchester and worth exploring if you’re ever visiting the South Peaks. The village was mentioned in the Domesday Book under the name Osmundestone, but it was expanded after Osmaston Manor was built in the 1840s.
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The house was built for Victorian industrialist Francis Wright, although it was later demolished in the 1960s after changing hands. Wright invested in the village, building a new church, school and houses for workers on the estate.
Today Osmaston is made up of a handful of cottages, with the two oldest buildings overlooking the duck pond. Even the village hall has a thatched roof. Near the pond you’ll find a rather intriguing bench made up of horseshoes, and there’s also the Shoulder of Mutton pub nearby.
It’s worth noting that the village itself does not have a huge amount of facilities for visitors, but it is still a lovely place to have a stroll while respecting the residents of Osmaston. It’s also the starting point for walks through Osmaston Park.
This stretch of land features beautiful woodland and secret lakes. Hidden in the grounds is a charming old water mill. A small Swiss-style chalet houses a large water wheel nestled among the trees.
You can still see the old terraces of the Osmaston Manor’s gardens in the park, but nothing remains of the old house. The site of the old house is now used as a wedding venue.
For a circular walk you can start at Osmaston, passing through the park and arriving at the village of Shirley, before returning back to Osmaston, which is around 5miles. Parking is limited but there can be spaces at the village hall.
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