Ashford-in-the-Water This attractive little village in the Peak District nestles on the banks of the River Wye about a mile to the north west of Bakewell. It boasts two pubs, a restaurant and a superb village shop, Ibbotson’s of Ashford. The most well-known architectural feature of Ashford is the low arched medieval Sheepwash Bridge. For centuries this was the main crossing point over the River Wye for pack horses carrying malt to Derby. The sheep pen adjacent to the bridge still stands and although the method is no longer standard farming practice, sheep washing demonstrations take place yearly. Formerly the lambs were held down stream and their mothers were hurled into the river from the pen. By the time they reached their offspring they were clean and ready for shearing. The spot is now a perfect place to chill a bottle of white wine in the clear water and count trout. The Bull’s Head: this friendly pub offers the best pub food for miles around. The Ashford Arms: an 18th century coach house has recently come under new ownership and become very popular Ibbotson’s of Ashford: Ken and Kathryn run this excellent deli. You can order fresh sandwiches and everything required for a weekend away including newspapers and groceries. Holy Trinity Church is a delight. Four ‘virgin crants’ hang in the aisle. These white paper garlands were carried at the funerals of unmarried girls. On Trinity Sunday Ashford celebrates the founding of the church. The six local wells are dressed and visited by a procession after the service.   Ashford Cricket Ground is a perfect spot to spend an afternoon supporting the local team. Ashford ‘Orchard’ is the local park. This enclosed field is perfect for children to play football in safety, just climb trees or use the swings.