Visiting Hartington

Located about 30 minutes from Cheadle, Hartington Village - just over the border in Derbyshire - is well worth a trip out. Our editor, Lori, visited on a sunny spring afternoon; here's how she got on.

The Picturesque Duck Pond

The drive from Cheadle through Ipstones, Onecote, and Warslow, passing through the Peak Park, is breathtaking, particularly on a sunny day. The round trip takes about an hour, and with free parking available in the village of Hartington, it offers a very enjoyable journey.

This village is picture-perfect, featuring 17th-century limestone cottages and easy access to Dovedale and the Tissington Trail. It's popular with tourists, cyclists, and walkers, but if you visit on a weekday, we found it not too crowded.

The Devonshire Arms is an excellent spot for lunch or a refreshing drink, while The Village Stores provides delightful homemade pies, tray bakes, sandwiches, and even potato salad, ideal for sharing by the duck pond.

Hartington's cheese-making tradition, which began in the 1870s, is renowned for its Peak District Stilton. The Hartington Cheese shop offers a wide selection of cheeses and chutneys, and even features a small garden for visitors to enjoy.

Fiveways offers a variety of gifts and souvenirs for all budgets, with country-themed items adding plenty of charm.

You can enjoy ice cream or read a book by the peaceful duck pond, and if you wish to stay for dinner, Hartington Spice offers Indian Nepalese cuisine, while the Charles Cotton Hotel serves wood-fired pizzas.

Planning to extend your stay? Luxurious rooms are available at the Devonshire Arms, excellent value can be found at The Charles Cotton Hotel, and there are numerous Air B&B options in the area as well.

Would I come back? Absolutely. We're already planning another trip!