Carsington

This shy stone village, beautifully tucked away in the hills, kept itself to itself for well over a thousand years. Early travellers passed through on their way to Ashbourne or Wirksworth with little reason to stop - apart from the Romans that is. Evidence of their stay came to light during construction of Carsington Water, a major reservoir completed in 1991. The reservoir now looks as though it has been hiding in the hills forever, surrounded by lovely walks and cycle paths and offering recreational facilities including water sports and fishing, bird hides, an adventure playground and modern-day stone circle, visitor centre and restaurant. Nearby Hopton Hall, though not open to the public, is of interest for its long ownership by the Gell family.