Thorpe Pastures

Heritage Site in Derbyshire Derbyshire Dales

England

Thorpe Pastures

Signpost on the Manifold Way Approaching Coldwall Bridge with the River Dove currently over to the left. — Signpost on the Manifold Way Credit: Bill Boaden

Thorpe Pastures is a notable heritage site located in Derbyshire, England. Situated near the village of Thorpe, it covers an area of approximately 50 hectares and is renowned for its historical and ecological significance. The site is primarily known for its well-preserved medieval ridge and furrow cultivation patterns, which provide valuable insight into the agricultural practices of the past.

Dating back to the 13th century, Thorpe Pastures showcases a remarkable example of the open field system that was prevalent during the medieval period. The ridge and furrow patterns, created by plowing methods, are visible as undulating earthworks across the landscape. These features not only demonstrate the long history of farming in the area but also serve as a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of medieval farmers.

Aside from its historical importance, Thorpe Pastures is also recognized for its rich biodiversity. The site encompasses a variety of habitats, including grassland, wetland, and woodlands, which support a diverse range of plant and animal species. It is home to several rare and protected species, such as the great crested newt and the marsh marigold.

Thorpe Pastures offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the cultural and natural heritage of Derbyshire. The site is easily accessible, with designated footpaths and interpretation boards providing information about its historical and ecological significance. It is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, history lovers, and those seeking a tranquil escape amidst beautiful surroundings.

Show me another place!

If you have any feedback on the listing, please let us know in the comments section below.

Thorpe Pastures Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 53.057/-1.766 or Grid Reference SK1551. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Signpost on the Manifold Way

Approaching Coldwall Bridge with the River Dove currently over to the left.

Bill Boaden

Track onto Coldwall Bridge

Part of the Limestone Way which will cross the River Dove.

Bill Boaden

Sheep-dotted hillside

The Limestone Way climbs a farm track on the left to the village of Thorpe which is at the top of the hill.

Bill Boaden

Sheep above the River Dove

Looking down the valley from a hillside near Thorpe.

Bill Boaden

Benchmark, Coldwall Bridge

Detail of the Ordnance Survey rivet benchmark on the north parapet of Coldwall Bridge. The rivet is missing and the cut arrow is unusually elaborate. The benchmark is located on the county boundary of Staffordshire and Derbyshire, it marks a height of 135.0173m above mean sea level (Ordnance Datum Newlyn) last verified in 1949 (location photograph SK1449 : Boundary stone, Coldwall Bridge).

Adrian Taylor

Milepost, Coldwall Lane

This Grade II listed stone milepost, still bearing its cast iron plate reading Cheadle 11, was erected following construction of the Blythe Marsh, Oakamoor to Thorpe turnpike road. Turnpike trusts had a legal obligation to erect milestones or mileposts along all roads for which they were responsible. This section of the road, now in places only used as a farm track, fell into disuse as early motor vehicles struggled with the gradients, road users preferring to use alternative routes.

Adrian Taylor

Boundary stone, Coldwall Bridge

Coldwall Bridge carried the Blythe Marsh, Oakamoor to Thorpe turnpike road over the River Dove. The county boundary between Staffordshire and Derbyshire which follows the centre of the River is marked by the projecting boundary stone, upon the top of which is an Ordnance Survey rivet benchmark (detail photograph SK1449 : Benchmark, Coldwall Bridge). This section of the turnpike road, now in places only used as a farm track, fell into disuse as early motor vehicles struggled with the gradients, road users preferring to use alternative routes.

Adrian Taylor

Track leading down to Coldwall Bridge from Thorpe

Colin Park

Ilam Park: Looking towards Thorpe Cloud, the flat-topped hill

Michael Garlick

Ilam Park: Looking towards Thorpe Cloud, the flat-topped hill

Michael Garlick

Tissington Spires

One of several limestone formations encountered in the narrow trench of Dovedale

Chris Heaton

Footpath in Dovedale

Deep in the trench of Dovedale, it is hard to imagine sunshine ever reaching this spot

Chris Heaton

Dovedale looking Upstream

Glorious Dovedale looking upstream from the stepping stones

Chris Heaton

Dovedale looking Downstream

Heading towards the stepping stones near Thorpe

Chris Heaton

Footbridge over the River Dove

Chris Heaton

Coach Park for Dovedale

This is the minor road heading west to Ilam. A long lay-by has been inserted complete with yellow lines reserved for the exclusive use of coaches to park, - for the wonders of Dovedale.

Chris Heaton

Driveway to Izaak Walton Hotel

Chris Heaton

Manifold Way above Fishpond Wood

A very muddy section of the path made harder by cattle grazing. There are a number of routes by which people pick their way through the wood. This is now a better section ahead.

Bill Boaden

Show me another place!

Thorpe Pastures is located at Grid Ref: SK1551 (Lat: 53.057, Lng: -1.766)

Administrative County: Derbyshire

District: Derbyshire Dales

Police Authority: Derbyshire