Discover the beauty, splendour and heritage of Derbyshire’s River Derwent by following the Heritage Way
This is a 55 mile walk along the Derwent Valley from Ladybower Reservoir in the Peak District National Park via Chatsworth and breathtaking scenery around the Derbyshire dales and through the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site. Follow the riverside path through Derby and continue onwards to the historic inland port of Shardlow. Journey’s end is at Derwent Mouth where the Derwent flows into the River Trent.
As well as the river, the Derwent Valley Heritage Way takes in a reservoir, miles of open countryside much of it within the Peak District National Park, two canals, the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site, villages and towns, a stately home, and numerous museums and other sites of interest. There are also plenty of pubs, tea shops and other places to recharge your batteries!
Take a closer look
Sections 1 – 4: Heatherdene to Matlock
Sections 5 – 7: Matlock to Little Eaton
Sections 8 – 10: Little Eaton to Derwent Mouth
Buy the companion guide on eBay (third edition updated in 2023) to see full details about the route and help support the Trust.
View the online summary to see each section of the route.
Some experiences of walking the route can be read here
