Ashbourne is the gateway to the Peak District, a short cycle ride or stroll from the Tissington Trail, a few minutes’ drive from the famous and celebrated Dove Dale and Manifold Valley and yet almost within earshot of Alton Towers.  Staying in Ashbourne barn accommodation will give you the freedom to explore  its surroundings. A few miles away from this fine town with its Georgian buildings and ancient market place, is Carsington Water which provides water sports, trails and a visitor centre. Sudbury Hall and the Museum of Childhood, owned by the National Trust, make wonderful places to visit if it rains.  Over the years many famous people have stayed at Ashbourne before journeying north into the Peaks including the writers Dr Samuel Johnson, Izaak Walton and George Eliot, who were inspired by this lovely town. They would probably have stayed in some of the Ashbourne barn accommodation on offer if it had been around – an affordable and convenient way to make the most of your stay in the Peak District. On Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday the town hosts the annual Royal Shrovetide Football Match takes place between the Uppards and Downards with goalposts set 3 miles apart – a free-for-all tradition dating back to medieval times.