Follow the steps up the tree-lined banks of Hermit's Wood and you will come across an intriguing cave with an arched doorway. This is the Hermitage and it was carved by Cornelius, a local baker from Derby.

In around 1130, he was led to this spot after a vision of the Virgin Mary. She told him to come to this spot and live a life of solitary prayer. Later, he also built a small chapel on the site, one of the smallest churches in England.

Damian

April 4, 2021

Hiking

very interesting local feature.

Bron

June 25, 2022

Hiking

A really beautiful spot full of history! Make sure you were good hiking shoes, as there is a lot of steps on routes nearby, which can be treacherous with a mix of recent rain and wet leaves!

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Best Hikes to Hermitage Cave (Hermit's Wood, Derby)

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1. All Saints Church, Dale Abbey – Dale Abbey Arch loop from Erewash

6.26km

01:41

80m

70m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

4.7

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2. All Saints Church, Dale Abbey – Dale Abbey Arch loop from Saint John Houghton Catholic Voluntary Academy

7.07km

01:53

70m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

4.6

(92)

278

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3. Dale Abbey Arch – Hopwell Hall Farm Alpacas loop from Ockbrook and Borrowash

9.74km

02:41

160m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Details

Informations

Elevation 110 m

Weather

Today

Sunday 25 January

7°C

2°C

23 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h

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Location: Dale Abbey, Erewash, Derbyshire, East Midlands, England, United Kingdom

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Hermitage Cave (Hermit's Wood, Derby)

1. All Saints Church, Dale Abbey – Dale Abbey Arch loop from Erewash

2. All Saints Church, Dale Abbey – Dale Abbey Arch loop from Saint John Houghton Catholic Voluntary Academy

3. Dale Abbey Arch – Hopwell Hall Farm Alpacas loop from Ockbrook and Borrowash

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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