Pictures of Cressbrook

About Cressbrook

Set amidst the dramatic scenery of the glorious Peak District National Park, Cressbrook offers visitors breathtaking views from the road winding through this deep river valley. One of its most imposing buildings is the hall located in a spectacular position close to famous Monsal Dale, this is known as Cressbrook Hall, a private property which once belonged to the owners of Cressbrook Mill, it is not open to public view, but there are holiday cottages in the beautifully landscaped grounds.

Sir Richard Arkwright built the original Cressbrook Mill in 1785, with a later building being constructed by his agent, William Newton in 1815. These buildings lay ruined for several years, they are now restored into attractive apartments and remain the most imposing feature of the village. The village tumbles attractively down a hillside with the largest concentration of properties being farther up hill. They consist mostly of typical cottages belong to former mill and mine workers.

The countryside is quite magnificent, dense wooded areas offer opportunities for birding and at Water-cum-Jolly, a wonderful river gorge attracts climbers to its fantastic limestone cliffs. This is a paradise for fishermen and walkers, there are numerous crags and an abundance of wildlife to be discovered amongst the remains of old lead workings. The area is mostly known for the rare wild flowers that flourish in the dale, this is now mostly a National Nature Reserve.

This is a place for pure countryside pleasure, with pleasant rural inns, the odd shop or two, nearby historic churches and above all the wild, enchanting scenery of the High Peaks.

Cressbrook can be found between Bakewell and Castleton