Cromford is for those who like to wander off the beaten tourist track and straight into the heart of history and culture.
Even the train station has its own claim to fame, dubbed the Oasis Station as the location where Oasis’s iconic Some Might Say single cover was shot.
From shopping and sightseeing to good grub and nature-infused adventure, here are my favourite finds after two years of discovering this stunning place.
1. Cromford
Cromford is a lively village with a strong sense of place and plenty of hidden treasures to discover. Photo: Andy @ FatManPhoto
2. Things to See & Do
At the heart of the village is Cromford Mill, part of the Derwent Valley Mills UNESCO World Heritage Site and widely recognised as the birthplace of the modern factory system. Today, the beautifully restored mill buildings are home to exhibitions exploring Cromford’s industrial heritage, alongside independent shops, a café and a varied programme of events throughout the year. For a more relaxed end to the day, Roberts Wine Bar or The Boat are ideal options for a laid-back drink, popular with both locals and visitors. Photo: Cromford Mills
3. Some Might Say
Tim Collis with his holiday cottage at Cromford Station, used as the location for Oasis’s single artwork for Some Might Say. Photo: SWNS
4. Walks & the Outdoors
You can take a canal boat trip (season dependent) or walk along the canal, stopping for a coffee and cake at the small café by the entrance. Alternatively, pick up picnic-worthy treats from the Cromford Mill café and head down to the meadow, or to one of the wooden tables beside the water at St Mary’s Church. For something simple and very local, pick up some chips from the chippy and eat them by the Mill Pond. For wider views and longer walks, explore Black Rocks, close to the High Peak Trail, or take the quieter forest path down towards Matlock. There are also several circular walks around Cromford, combining canal paths, woodland, hillside tracks and village lanes — perfect for a gentle afternoon wander. Photo: Katie King & Co