Hilton village is situated on the old Derby to Uttoxeter road; today it is once again a peaceful place, as the building of the new A50 has by-passed its quiet streets.
Among buildings of interest is Wakelyn Hall, a fine half-timbered house, the former home of the Wakelyn family in the 17th century and reputed to have played host to Mary Queen of Scots on her way to imprisonment at Tutbury Castle.
The several pubs include the 15th century Old Talbot inn and the more modern Hilton Hotel, (no, not belonging to the famous chain!). The village has several shops, including a post office, a Tesco express and Spice Island, a newly opened curry house. Hargate Equestrian just outside Hilton village has a riding school for all ages.
The Dove River flows very near the village, through some attractive scenery, while some of the old gravel works that surround Hilton are now owned by the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust and are very popular with bird watchers, as many rarities show up here from autumn through to spring.
Down by the banks of the river, just to the East, is the tiny Hamlet of Marston on Dove. There is evidence of an old Saxon settlement here, which lay in the loop of the river. A tendency to flooding no doubt gave the impetus for the settlement to move up onto the higher ground at Hilton. but the little 13th century Church of St Mary remained. It contains the oldest bell in Derbyshire, cast by John de Stafford, at Leicester, in 1366 and inscribed with the words ‘Hail Mary’.
Out on the Uttoxeter Road is The Lavender Patch, a pick-your-own Lavender farm that also provides accommodation and a tea room selling many lavender-related goodies. The Hibberts, who run the farm also offer fishing at Hall Croft Lake next to their Swan Cottage accommodation.
Tutbury Village is approximately three miles to the east of Hilton, just over the River Dove beyond Marston. Tutbury is a pretty village with antique shops, and a gallery. The haunted Tutbury Castle can be found at the top end of the village and is where Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned. The Dog and Partridge Public House, situated in the heart of Tutbury, is a splendid 14th century building, steeped in history and full of character. It has traditional open log fires and oak beams.
Sudbury Hall and the National Trust Museum of Childhood are located in the village of Sudbury about five miles from the village. This is a very popular place for children because of the Toy Museum and there are often have activities to take part in.