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Shirley, Longford and Osmaston Park

Difficulty: Easy

Length: 10 miles

Embark on a rewarding circular walking trail that begins and concludes in the charming village of Shirley, nestled near the market town of Ashbourne in Derbyshire.

Convenient roadside parking can be found in a designated pull-in just off the main thoroughfare through Shirley. Be prepared for potentially challenging conditions across the farmland sections of this route, which are known to become extremely muddy following periods of rain, necessitating appropriate footwear.

Successful completion of this walk relies on your ability to navigate independently using a map or GPS device, as the footpath signage is generally quite poor, and many of the stiles along the way are in poor repair, often broken or unstable. Additionally, some stiles were obscured by overgrown blackthorn, and overhanging bushes and trees have suffered from a lack of maintenance.

In contrast, the footpaths and access points across the privately owned Osmaston Park estate are well-maintained and easy to use. The walk offers a pleasant journey through the picturesque Osmaston Park woodlands, eventually leading you along Park Lane, a scenic path situated between two serene lakes within the park. A notable landmark along this stretch is an old water mill, distinguished by its unusual roof reminiscent of a Swiss chalet. Despite the navigational difficulties and occasional obstacles, the walk itself is considered a pleasant experience, particularly suitable for dog walkers, with designated areas where well-behaved dogs can enjoy off-lead exercise. Take time to explore the appealing village of Shirley, home to the impressive St Michael’s Church, although it has undergone significant restoration that has altered its original Norman design. Shirley also boasts a connection to English literary history as the early residence of John Cowper Powys, a prominent religious novelist whose father served as the village vicar. Be sure to visit The Sarcen’s Head, a historic inn with a rich past, mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086 and named after the heraldic crest of the influential Shirley family.

Further Information

Shirley, Longford, and Osmaston Park are three adjacent areas in Derby, that are home to a variety of natural beauty. Shirley Park is a wooded area with a lake, Longford is a more open area with fields and farmland, and Osmaston Park is a mix of both.

The history of these areas dates back centuries. Shirley Park was once farmland owned by the Wilmot family, while Longford was originally a hamlet that grew up around a coaching inn. Osmaston Park was created in the 19th century when the Wilmot family donated land to the city of Derby.

Today, Shirley, Longford, and Osmaston Park are popular destinations for locals and visitors alike. The parks offer a variety of activities, including walking, running, cycling, fishing, and birdwatching. There are also several playgrounds and picnic areas in the parks, making them perfect for families.

In addition to their natural beauty, Shirley, Longford, and Osmaston Park also have a rich history. The Wilmot family's Osmaston Hall, which was originally located on nearby Ascot Drive, is now a Grade II listed building. The hall was built in the 17th century and was once the home of the Wilmot family, who were prominent landowners in the area.

The parks are also home to a number of other historical features, including the Longford Windmill, which was built in the 18th century, and the Shirley War Memorial, which was erected in 1921 to commemorate the men from the area who died in World War I.

If you're looking for a peaceful place to enjoy nature or learn about Derby's history, then Shirley, Longford, and Osmaston Park are the perfect destinations. With their beautiful scenery, variety of activities, and rich history, these parks have something to offer everyone.