Market town packed with independent shops is just 30 minutes from Derby
It is around 30 minutes away by car from Derby city centre.
Dubbed the ‘gateway to Dovedale’, one of Derbyshire’s most popular beauty spots, is Ashbourne.
This fine market town is easy on the eye with its leafy green spaces, jaw-dropping views and old world charm.
Located around 14 miles, or a 30 minute drive from Derby city centre (we used the Derbion postcode), Ashbourne is also filled with independent shops galore.
We think Ashbourne town centre has some of the best shops in the region.
The diverse offerings means you can pretty much find whatever you want from one big-hearted town.
A few of my favourite shops are Chic of which there are two stores. I bought my whole summer vacation wardrobe from there, it was nice to find everything I needed, under one roof.
For high street fashion, Sinfoil & Slater is also a popular option.
For those with a more casual, relaxed approach to fashion, head to the Equatorial Centre which is cosy and a haven for fairtrade goods and funky tie-died clothing.
If you’re into ethical shopping, the numerous pre-loved and antique stores will be right up your street.
Ashbourne Antique Centre and Second Chance Dress Agency on Church Street, are my favourite places to hunt down vintage items.
I snapped up a Ralph Lauren nautical themed bag for a fraction of the original price, which is around 80% less than a similar bag found at a regular department store.
The two shops are also mere seconds away from each other and part of a bustling high street that includes fudge shops, cocktail bars, rustic pubs and more.
The town centre is in the middle of a big transformation as part of a 15.2m regeneration project which means an improved shopping experience too.
It is not just independent shops that are noteworthy about Ashbourne.
It is also an excellent dining destination filled with independent restaurants.
One of my favourites is The Bowling Green Steakhouse that serves luscious scoop chips, and fabulous Sunday lunches with homemade sausages that are hearty and delicious.
Top food, fashion, shopping in Ashbourne
From fashion boutiques to cheese and wine shops, there honestly is something for everyone in Ashbourne.
A recent addition to Ashbourne high street is Deli No. 7 at Howell and Marsden, housed in striking 19th century building on the town’s square.
From the timber-framed Gingerbread Shop to family-run independent businesses located in many of the original shops that are hundreds of years old, Ashbourne is a place that really knows how to embrace its rich history by blending it well with the 21st century.