Derwent Valley Heritage Way

Derwent Valley Heritage Way

A walk through the Derbyshire Dales from Ladybower Reservoir in the north to Shardlow in the south.

4 to 7 nights
55 miles
Moderate to Demanding / Strenuous

From £520 per person

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About this route

4 to 7 nights
55 miles
Moderate to Demanding / Strenuous
2nd January to 24th December

From £520 per person

Derwent Valley Heritage Way

The Derwent Valley Heritage Way follows Derbyshire's River Derwent from Ladybower Reservoir to Shardlow, encountering a range of beautiful scenery and industrial heritage along the way. The trail enjoys wonderful views across the Derbyshire Dales and visits numerous sites of interest, including the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site and a collection of museums, stately homes, wildlife reserves and even a steam railway.

There is a variety of quaint villages and friendly towns along the route, as well as the thriving industrial city of Derby, boasting everything a walker could require. The trail itself is well-signposted with reasonably gentle terrain; however, there are a number of varied climbs with the reward of beautiful hilltop views to keep walkers engaged throughout.

 

Standard
Interactive
© Contours Walking Holidays Derwent Valley Heritage Way map
Yorkshire Bridge to Shardlow
55 miles (88 km)
2nd January to 24th December

Holiday highlights

Starting the walk at Ladybower Reservoir, famous for being the testing ground for the Dambusters.

Visiting the many charming towns and villages along the way, including the historic Matlock Bath, boasting a wide range of attractions.

Learning about the wealth of local history around the area and how the River Derwent contributed to Derbyshire’s industrial development.

Available tours

Code Tour Duration Difficulty Price per person
DVHW1 From Yorkshire Bridge(L) to Shardlow 4 nights, 3 days walking Demanding / Strenuous £520
DVHW2 From Yorkshire Bridge(L) to Shardlow 5 nights, 4 days walking Moderate / Demanding £645
DVHW3 From Yorkshire Bridge(L) to Shardlow 6 nights, 5 days walking Moderate £770
DVHW4 From Yorkshire Bridge(L) to Shardlow 7 nights, 6 days walking Moderate £895

Customer reviews from the Derwent Valley Heritage Way

“Was a lovely break. The walking notes were very clear so no mishaps. Great week walking. Very good instructions and places to stay. Would definitely book another holiday with Contours.”
Mrs Thorpe, UK
“We thoroughly enjoyed our walk along the Derwent.”
Mr Falla, Netherlands
“We're really grateful to Counters - especially Richard and Emma - for their assistance. Arriving on Day one of Storm Babet was a tough start but with all their help we had a great time! It's a great walk going through many lovely villages with lots of places to stop for refreshments on the way.”
Mr Coyle, Canada
“We have just completed the Derwent Valley Heritage Trail, a superb walk with lots to see, read and research. We should like to thank you for the arrangements made, especially for the depositing of luggage at Ladybower prior to the start, and for the arrangement made at the end at Holden House for collection. We had a delightful experience and hope to use Contours again.”
Mrs Morrison, UK
“Enjoyed having a bath in most places - thank you.”
Mrs Rodger, UK
“A wonderful walk through the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution combined with beautiful, ever-changing countryside.”
Mrs Scarth, UK
“Today we completed our 5-day Derwent Heritage Way walk and despite the rain we had a wonderful time. We greatly enjoyed every part of the Way, and especially loved Heathy Lea. On our last night in Shardlow, we are in Holden House, looking out on the mighty Trent - awesome! Thanks for a great experience.”
Dr Lindenmeyr, USA
“The scenery was beautiful and varied and the walks were of a good length for us. I would recommend Contours Walking Holidays. We have walked with Contours almost every year since 2004. The organisation, preparation and information provided are exemplary and we have always been happy with the walks and the accommodation.”
Mr Shotton, UK
“My first walking holiday, one which was made extremely enjoyable by Contours taking all of the stress out of it. Thoroughly enjoyed all aspects of the holiday. Without a doubt would definitely book another holiday with you, nothing was too much trouble for the contours team.”
Mr Chandler, UK
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