The Sheepwash Bridge — Attraction in Derbyshire Dales

I loved this picturesque stone bridge in its idyllic setting, just two minutes walk from the centre of the village. It's very peaceful now, but in the 17th century it was on a busy trade route, with around 300 packhorses laden with malt crossing it each week. You can still see the stone enclosures beside the bridge where farmers used to pen their sheep before driving them into the river to be washed in preparation for shearing. The bridge is not open to motor traffic, so you can walk across it in peace and enjoy the views of the fast flowing River Wye and its banks overhung by willows. It was a hot day when I visited, and a few people were enjoying a paddle in the river. Lots of ducks enjoying a swim too! A lovely place for a picnic, spotting wildlife or just going for a...

Attractive 18th century bridge constructed from local limestone, located at the heart of the charming village of Ashford in the Water. Built to facilitate sheep dipping, with a stone walled pen to one end, it's now a popular spot to sit and watch the ducks. The village itself is well worth a look while visiting, with an attractive church, covered cross and little streets of quaint cottages. At the time of my visit on a weekday evening in early summer it was easy to find free...

It was our first stop. Such a quaint, idyllic village. This bridge gave us a perfect spot to just stroll and inhale the peace and nature. A newlywed couple was having photoshoot there on bridge...what a spot for such an occasion! Residents seemed really friendly and warm towards tourists. There is a public path leading to an open field. That path is...