The Best Stops to Make When Driving from Ashfield to Kirklees

The drive from Ashfield to Kirklees is a journey that treats the senses to everything that the heart of England has to offer. You'll pass through charming villages, rolling hills, and historic landmarks, and encounter breathtaking landscapes that will make you want to take your time and soak them all in. Here's a list of the top places to see when driving from Ashfield to Kirklees that would make your journey filled with memorable experiences.

Discovering the Hidden Gems

1. Hardwick Hall. Located about 12 miles away from Ashfield, Hardwick Hall is a beautiful stately home where you can take a tour led by knowledgeable guides dressed in period costume. The tours take you through the hall's four levels, each with its theme, including the Tudor kitchens, the grand ballroom, and a chapel that was decorated by Queen Elizabeth I's manner of the late Countess of Shrewsbury. After your tour, you'll be able to explore the hall's extensive parkland, which has a circular walk that offers visitors fantastic views.

2. Stainsborough Hall and Country Estate. About an hour's drive from Ashfield is the beautiful Stainsborough Hall and Country Estate. This picturesque country house is set in 700 acres of parkland and gardens and is home to a herd of red deer that roam freely around the estate. Here you can take a guided tour of the house, followed by a walk around the gardens and woodlands that surround the estate. You'll also enjoy the amazing views across the Peak District, something that's not to be missed.

3. Hathersage. Further north of Stainsborough Hall and Country Estate, at the edge of the Peak District, is the charming village of Hathersage. Known for its association with the legendary Robin Hood, Hathersage is a picturesque village that's a wonderful place to stop for a few hours and explore. There are several shops, cafes, and pubs to enjoy, and you can take a walk down to the River Derwent or visit the ancient St. Michael's church, where Robin Hood's supposed 'sister' is buried.

4. Holmfirth. Holmfirth is a beautiful Yorkshire village that has become something of an icon thanks to the long-running British TV series, "Last of the Summer Wine," which was shot here. This charming village is home to cobbled streets, a picturesque river running through it, and plenty of traditional pubs and tea rooms.

Enjoying the Scenic Route

5. Snake Pass. The Snake Pass is a stunning road that passes through the Peak District and connects Manchester to Sheffield. This route requires you to take your time, as it snakes through 37 miles of breathtaking countryside, with views of the Ladybower Reservoir, the Derwent Valley, and the highest pub in England, the Horse & Jockey.

6. Cannon Hall Park and Gardens. Located close to Kirklees, Cannon Hall is a 70-acre country estate that includes a deer park, gardens, a museum, and a farm. The heritage site is perfect for families and all ages, with something for everyone. The museum tells the story of the Barnsley region, while the gardens and the stately house offer plenty of photo opportunities.

7. Kirklees Light Railway. Operating through the summer months, the Kirklees Light Railway is a fun and unique way of exploring the picturesque Yorkshire countryside. The railway covers three-and-a-half miles between Clayton West and Shelley and offers a great experience for children and adults alike. Riding on beautifully restored steam and diesel trains, you'll pass through the beautiful rolling countryside of Kirklees, soaking in the sights and sounds of the region.

In Conclusion

The drive from Ashfield to Kirklees offers plenty of thrilling sights to make for an unforgettable experience. From stately homes and charming villages to rolling hills and scenic views, each mile you travel is filled with new adventures, making each stop you make worthwhile. So, stock up your car, make sure your camera's charged, and hit the road for a journey filled with the best that England has to offer.