If you’re planning a visit to the Peak District in February 2026, Ashbourne Royal Shrovetide is the perfect event to put on your list.

Just a short drive from our tranquil haven at Wheeldon Trees Cottages, the market town of Ashbourne hosts this ancient, exhilarating and utterly unique event.

When is Ashbourne Royal Shrovetide 2026?

Ashbourne Royal Shrovetide always takes place on Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday. In 2026, these dates fall on Tuesday February 17th and Wednesday February 18th.

A History Steeped in Tradition

The origins of Shrovetide are shrouded in the mists of time, believed to date back to the 12th century or even earlier. Legend has it that the game began with a severed head being kicked through the town, though thankfully, the “ball” is now a more civilsed, hand-painted leather creation.

The game is played between two teams: the Up’Ards and the Down’Ards.

Up’Ards are those born north of the Henmore Brook (which runs through the town).

Down’Ards are those born south of the Henmore Brook.

The “pitch” is the entire town, with goals located three miles apart at Sturston Mill and Clifton Mill. The objective is to get the ball into your team’s mill by “scoring” it against a millstone. There are very few rules, aside from prohibitions on violence, hiding the ball or carrying it in a vehicle. The game itself can involve thousands of players, forming huge, slow-moving “hugs” that push the ball through streets, fields and even rivers.

It’s a truly extraordinary display of community spirit, strength, and unwavering tradition.

Get Involved

Shrovetide is a fantastic spectacle to witness. You can follow the ‘hug’ (the main mass of players around the ball) as it moves through the town, or find a vantage point to observe the ebb and flow of the game.

Ashbourne gets incredibly busy, so arrive early to find parking and get a good spot. It’s best to wear sturdy shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking, often on uneven terrain. Finally, it goes without saying, dress for the weather. February in the Peak District can be chilly, so layer up!

A Unique Peak District Experience

While staying at Wheeldon Trees Cottages, you’ll find yourself perfectly placed to experience the grandeur of the Peak District’s natural beauty. But for two days in February 2026, consider venturing into Ashbourne to witness a piece of living history that truly captures the unique spirit of our region. It’s muddy, it’s loud, it’s utterly bonkers and it’s an unforgettable highlight of the Peak District calendar.

Wheeldon Trees Cottages

Set amidst the breathtaking scenery of Earl Sterndale, our luxurious Derbyshire cottages offer the perfect blend of tranquility and adventure for this historic year. Whether you are seeking a romantic getaway to toast the anniversary, a family adventure exploring the “living landscape,” or a relaxing retreat with friends, Wheeldon Trees provides a haven of comfort and style.

From your doorstep, you can join anniversary ranger-led walks, explore charming limestone villages, and hike the very trails that sparked a national movement—all before returning to the warmth of your own private sanctuary. With exceptional amenities and our signature impeccable service, we guarantee an unforgettable holiday experience during this momentous year.

Bring Your Best Friend Along

We believe a celebration is better with your four-legged companions! If you are searching for a dog-friendly Peak District cottage to enjoy those anniversary walks, we have three beautiful options:

• Ollerenshaw: A cosy, romantic retreat for two people plus a dog.

• Critchlow: The perfect fit for a small family or group of three.

• Lomas: A spacious and stylish choice for up to four people.

Immerse Yourself in Heritage

For those who truly want to live the history of the Peaks, our 200-year-old Wheeldon Trees Farmhouse perfectly mirrors the “Heritage and Access” theme of the 75th anniversary. Boasting a blend of historic charm and modern luxury, the Farmhouse features:

• Three spacious double bedrooms for a restful night’s sleep.
• Two inviting sitting rooms perfect for evening relaxation.
• A huge, traditional Farmhouse kitchen—the true heart of the home.

Treat yourself to a few days of pure bliss in the Peaks and make 2026 a year to remember.

See our availability.