Town Info: The Georgian market town of Ashbourne, Derbyshire, also known as The Gateway to Dove dale, is located in the East Midlands of England, in the sovereign state of the United Kingdom. The area has an estimated population of 7,112 inhabitants. Ashbourne is located right in the middle of Derby, Sudbury, Uttoxeter, Stoke-on-Trent, Leek, Buxton, Glossop, Fenny Bently, Hartington, Tissington, Matlock, Matlock Bath and Belper.
History: The first reference to the town is made before the 7th century in the Domesday Book, under the medieval name of Esseburn. Originally a meeting point for six main coach routes including Manchester and London. The area grew increasingly to become the commercial center for a considerable number of surrounding towns.
Shopping – Thursdays and Saturdays are market days in the city. An array of fresh, homemade produce is available to feast on and invest in, even the pickiest food connoisseur will have an endless list of true to region delicacies to choose from.
Events: If you’re a fan of football, the thousand-year-old Royal Shrovetide Football Match, held annually, is a must-see. The entire city is divided into two teams, the Up’ards and the Down’ards, who play against each other for two days. A hand-painted ball containing cork is used to score goals into opposing nets located three miles apart. A game with few rules and lots of fun.
The Ashbourne Arts Festival celebrates its tenth anniversary this year with a two-week exhibition of local and international artists and performers during the months of June and July. The annual Ashbourne Agricultural Show takes place in August with entertainment for young and old, with plenty of animal shows, horticulture and craft competitions, as well as delicious food stalls. Do you need to lose a few kilos and get in shape during your visit? The annual Ashbourne Half Run and Marathon during September is exactly what the doctor ordered.