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Ashbourne Tunnel

4.4
·276 reviews·, United Kingdom

Start your scenic adventure on the Tissington Trail from the historic Ashbourne Tunnel, offering bike hire, cafes, and easy access.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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© Rachel Prince

Ashbourne Tunnel

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Start your scenic adventure on the Tissington Trail from the historic Ashbourne Tunnel, offering bike hire, cafes, and easy access.

4.4
(276 reviews)

"Great place to park, toilets, bike hire and shop. We walked the trail from Ashbourne to Tissington."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Careful Car Park Entry

The car park entrance has a sharp turn and one-way system; drive cautiously. :car:

💰 Parking Payment Options

Pay with pound coins or phone. Pound coins are often easier. Parking is £1 until 8 am after 6 pm. :moneybag:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ashbourne Tunnel Entrance

Ashbourne Tunnel Entrance

Start of the Tissington Trail

The iconic tunnel marks the beginning of a scenic journey, perfect for cyclists and walkers.

Tissington Trail

Tissington Trail

Starts at Ashbourne Tunnel

A picturesque 24-mile trail offering stunning Derbyshire scenery, ideal for cycling and walking.

Tunnel Cafe

Tunnel Cafe

Near Ashbourne Tunnel car park

A convenient spot for refreshments before or after your trail adventure.

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Planning Your Visit

Parking & Trail Access

The Ashbourne Tunnel car park is a prime starting point for the Tissington Trail. It offers free parking for blue badge holders and has facilities like toilets and bike hire. Be mindful of the sharp turn and one-way system when entering the car park from the main road.

Trail Etiquette & Enjoyment

The Tissington Trail is popular for walking, cycling, and running, suitable for all abilities. While generally flat, cyclists are reminded to be considerate of other users, especially those on foot. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and plan for stops at cafes along the route.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
After 6 PM
Why
Cheaper parking, quieter trail
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Warm weather for outdoor activities
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚗 Careful Car Park Entry

The car park entrance has a sharp turn and one-way system; drive cautiously. :car:

💰 Parking Payment Options

Pay with pound coins or phone. Pound coins are often easier. Parking is £1 until 8 am after 6 pm. :moneybag:

🚴‍♂️ Trail Etiquette

Cyclists, be mindful of walkers and follow signage for shared path use. :cyclist:

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Route Options

Combine the trail with Dovedale and Thorpe for a longer, varied walk. :hiking_boot:

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Careful Car Park Entry

The car park entrance has a sharp turn and one-way system; drive cautiously. :car:

💰 Parking Payment Options

Pay with pound coins or phone. Pound coins are often easier. Parking is £1 until 8 am after 6 pm. :moneybag:

🚴‍♂️ Trail Etiquette

Cyclists, be mindful of walkers and follow signage for shared path use. :cyclist:

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Route Options

Combine the trail with Dovedale and Thorpe for a longer, varied walk. :hiking_boot:

☕ Refreshment Stops

Cafes are available along the Tissington Trail for breaks and snacks. :coffee:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(276 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Ashbourne Tunnel and Tissington Trail for its accessibility, scenic beauty, and family-friendly nature. The convenient parking and facilities at the tunnel entrance are frequently highlighted as positives. Some cyclists note the need for awareness regarding other trail users.

"Good car park for blue badge users as they can park for free. This is also the best place to start a walk up the tissington trail as it starts here up through the tunnels. Also good for then walking into town as the big supermarket is just across the road, and iconic tunnel cafe nearby."

Jody Bunting

"I parked my car, and paid with cash. I went after 6pm and it was £1 until 8am. Machine takes pound coins or can pay with phone, though pound coins seemed a lot easier. The entrance to the parking has a one way system that seems more like a blind bend,so be careful and coming in from the main road is a sharp turn. Drive safe. The Ashbourne tunnel is at the far side of the car park to the leisure centre, this leads on to the tissington trail."

Paul Rogers

"Great place to park,Toilets,bike hire and shop.We walked the trail from Ashbourne to tissington,stopped for a coffee and a snack.then continued to Alsop.
We came off the trail there and picked up the path up the hill across the top and the down in to Dovedale.Walked along the river to Thorpe.turned left at the stepping stones over the fields and rejoined the trail back to Asbourne.Great walk Beautiful scenery."

John

What People Like

Scenic and accessible trail
Good parking facilities
Family-friendly activities

What People Dislike

Cyclist etiquette concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Ashbourne Tunnel is located near the Ashbourne Leisure Centre. The car park is the best access point. Be aware of the sharp turn and one-way system when entering from the main road. Reddit

Yes, there is a car park adjacent to the tunnel. It offers free parking for blue badge holders and has a payment system for others, costing £1 from 6 PM to 8 AM. Reddit

Yes, bike hire is available at the Ashbourne end of the Tissington Trail, making it convenient to start your cycling adventure. Reddit

While specific bus routes to the immediate tunnel area might vary, Ashbourne town itself is served by local bus services. From the town centre, it's a short walk or taxi ride to the tunnel and trail access. Check local bus timetables for the most up-to-date information.

The car park is accessible, and the Tissington Trail itself is largely flat and well-maintained, making it suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no tickets required to access or walk through the Ashbourne Tunnel. It serves as an entry point to the Tissington Trail. Reddit

The tunnel itself is always accessible as it's part of an outdoor trail. The car park has specific hours and charges, with overnight parking available after 6 PM for £1 until 8 AM. Reddit

The Tissington Trail is a public footpath and cycleway, so there is no entry fee to use it. Reddit

The main consideration is respecting other trail users, especially cyclists who may be travelling at speed. Always follow signage and be courteous. Reddit

While the tunnel is always open, visiting at night might be less safe and enjoyable due to limited lighting. The car park has overnight charges. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Facilities include toilets, bike hire, and a cafe nearby. The car park is also a key amenity for visitors. Reddit+1

The Tissington Trail is a mostly flat, 24-mile route through scenic Derbyshire countryside, popular for cycling and walking. Reddit+1

The trail is 24 miles long. A leisurely walk could take a full day, while cycling can cover significant distances in a few hours. Many people do sections of the trail. Reddit

Absolutely! The trail offers beautiful countryside views, charming villages, and the unique experience of passing through tunnels. Reddit

You can expect to see various bird species, and if you're lucky, small mammals. The surrounding countryside is rich with natural beauty. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is an iconic tunnel cafe located near the Ashbourne Tunnel car park, perfect for a snack or drink. Reddit

Yes, there are cafes located at various points along the 24-mile trail, allowing you to stop for refreshments during your journey. Reddit+1

Certainly! Many visitors enjoy picnics along the Tissington Trail. Remember to take all your litter home with you to keep the trail clean. Reddit

Ashbourne town, located near the tunnel, offers a range of pubs, cafes, and restaurants for more substantial meals. The large supermarket is also conveniently located across the road from the car park. Reddit

While specific menus can change, most cafes along popular trails offer a selection of vegetarian options. It's always a good idea to check with the cafe directly for vegan choices.

📸 📸 Photography

The entrance and exit of the tunnel itself make for dramatic shots. The surrounding countryside and the trail stretching out offer many scenic photo opportunities. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most beautiful golden hour shots, highlighting the landscape. Midday can be harsh. Reddit

Drone usage is subject to local regulations and airspace restrictions. Always check with relevant authorities and ensure you have permission before flying a drone in public areas. Respect privacy of other visitors.

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can capture the expanse of the trail and countryside. Don't forget a polarizing filter for vibrant skies. Reddit

Beyond the tunnel, look for charming bridges, picturesque villages like Tissington, and the rolling hills of the Peak District. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Tissington Trail, accessible via the Ashbourne Tunnel, is a fantastic destination for families. Its flat, traffic-free path makes it safe and enjoyable for children of all ages, whether they're walking or cycling. Bike hire is available at the start, so you don't need to bring your own equipment. Reddit

Pack a picnic to enjoy along the way, or stop at one of the cafes dotted along the trail for a treat. The novelty of cycling through the tunnel is often a highlight for younger visitors. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, and be mindful of cyclists who may be travelling at speed. Reddit

🚴‍♀️ Cycling Enthusiasts

For cyclists, the Tissington Trail offers a rewarding experience. The 24-mile route provides a good challenge, with the journey from Ashbourne to Dowlow being noticeably uphill, meaning a predominantly downhill ride back, which is a welcome relief. Reddit

Bike hire is readily available at the Ashbourne end, making it easy to start your ride. The trail is well-maintained and offers scenic views throughout. Be prepared for other users, and remember that while the trail is long, there are cafes along the route to split up longer rides. Reddit+1

🚶‍♂️ Walkers and Hikers

Walkers will find the Tissington Trail a delightful experience, offering beautiful Derbyshire scenery at a relaxed pace. The gentle gradient makes it accessible for most fitness levels. You can choose to walk the entire length or just a section, perhaps to the village of Tissington or further afield. Reddit

A popular extended walk involves connecting to Dovedale and Thorpe, offering a more varied terrain and stunning river scenery. The trail is well-signposted, and the presence of cafes provides opportunities for rest and refreshments. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Tissington Trail

The Tissington Trail is a beloved 24-mile (38.6 km) traffic-free route that follows a former railway line through the heart of the Derbyshire Dales. Starting near the Ashbourne Tunnel, it offers a gentle gradient, making it ideal for walking, cycling, and running for all ages and abilities. The trail winds through picturesque countryside, passing through charming villages and offering stunning views of the Peak District National Park. Reddit+1

Cyclists will find the predominantly downhill return journey from Dowlow to Ashbourne particularly enjoyable after an uphill start. Along the way, you'll find convenient cafes and refreshment stops, allowing you to break up your journey and refuel. Remember to be considerate of other trail users, as the path can get busy, especially during peak times. Reddit+1

For those looking for a more extensive adventure, the Tissington Trail can be combined with other local paths. A popular option mentioned by visitors is to connect to Dovedale and Thorpe, creating a longer, more varied walk that showcases the diverse beauty of the region. Reddit

Practicalities: Parking and Facilities

The Ashbourne Tunnel car park is a crucial hub for accessing the Tissington Trail. It provides essential facilities such as toilets and bike hire, making it a convenient starting point for your outdoor activities. For visitors with mobility issues, the car park offers free parking for blue badge holders, a significant benefit. Reddit

When arriving by car, be aware of the car park's entrance. It features a one-way system that can feel like a blind bend, so proceed with caution. Payment for parking is straightforward, accepting both pound coins and phone payments, though pound coins are noted as being easier to use. The parking charges are reasonable, with an overnight rate of £1 from 6 PM to 8 AM. Reddit

Beyond the immediate car park, the iconic tunnel cafe is a popular spot for a quick bite or a warming drink, adding to the convenience and enjoyment of your visit. The proximity to a large supermarket across the road also offers further options for supplies. Reddit

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