Handley

Settlement in Derbyshire North East Derbyshire

England

Handley

South Western Portal of Clay Cross tunnel Unlike the Northern portal of this tunnel, that in the south west is a plain affair. The pin prick of light of the northern poral can just be made out. — South Western Portal of Clay Cross tunnel Credit: Richard Bird

Handley is a small village located in the county of Derbyshire, England. Situated in the Amber Valley district, it lies approximately 3 miles south of the town of Clay Cross and about 6 miles east of Chesterfield. The village is nestled in a picturesque countryside setting, surrounded by rolling hills, lush green fields, and charming rural landscapes.

With a population of around 500 residents, Handley has a close-knit community feel. The village features a mix of traditional stone-built cottages and more modern houses, giving it a unique architectural blend. The local church, St. James' Church, is a prominent landmark and dates back to the 12th century, adding historical significance to the area.

Despite its small size, Handley offers several amenities to its residents. These include a village hall that serves as a hub for community events and gatherings, a primary school catering to the educational needs of local children, and a post office for essential services. The village also benefits from excellent transport links, with convenient access to major roads such as the A61 and A617, facilitating easy travel to nearby towns and cities.

Handley's rural location makes it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. The surrounding countryside provides ample opportunities for walking, hiking, and exploring the picturesque Peak District National Park, which is just a short distance away. Overall, Handley provides a peaceful and idyllic setting, making it a charming place to live or visit.

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Handley Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 53.1511/-1.439229 or Grid Reference SK3761. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

South Western Portal of Clay Cross tunnel

Unlike the Northern portal of this tunnel, that in the south west is a plain affair. The pin prick of light of the northern poral can just be made out.

Richard Bird

Cattle on the side of South Hill

Looking up to the southern end of the South Hill ridge.

Bill Boaden

Footpath to Mickley Estate

Houses lining the A61 can be seen on the far hill. In between is the valley of Smithy Brook.

Bill Boaden

Field of sheep on South Hill

The eastern side of the South Hill ridge.

Bill Boaden

Footpath on South Hill

The footpath originally cut off this corner of the field and is still marked as such on the OS map. However that part of the path no longer exists and you have to use the field entrance where I am standing.

Bill Boaden

Harvested field on South Hill

Stretton is seen on the far hill, on the other side of the valley of Smithy Brook.

Bill Boaden

Footpath towards Handley

Crossing a harvested field at the northern end of South Hill.

Bill Boaden

Footpath on South Hill

The South Hill ridge continues further up to the right. On the far hill are some houses at Mickley on the A61.

Bill Boaden

Bridleway to Handley

This route appears on older OS maps as a yellow road. It has clearly fallen into disrepair and is not maintained.

Bill Boaden

Harvested field on Smithy Moor

In the far centre is the spire of St Bartholomew's Church in Clay Cross.

Bill Boaden

Crossroads at Handley

Handley is a very small hamlet on a ridge between Clay Cross and Ashover.

Bill Boaden

Barley field by Woodhead Lane

Woodhead Lane runs along a ridge with extensive views to the east around Clay Cross and the upper catchment area of the River Rother. Stretton Hall Farm is seen to the left.

Bill Boaden

Woodhead Lane

The lane climbs along a ridge which leads up to Farhill. There are quite extensive views to the right from here.

Bill Boaden

Footpath to Ridgewell Farm

Crossing the top of the ridge. This path disappears when the field is ploughed, and when it reappears it does not always follow exactly the same route through the field.

Bill Boaden