Dimmingsdale, Alton

Dimmingsdale is a Forestry England SSSI Valley, nestled in the Churnet Valley in the Staffordshire Peak District, forming part of the original Alton Towers Estate.

Dimmingsdale is truly one of Staffordshire’s hidden gems.

This enchanting and beautiful valley is a haven for walkers, nature lovers and those seeking tranquillity and spectacular scenery.

Forming part of the Churnet Valley in the Staffordshire Moorlands it is located between Alton and Oakamoor and is managed by Forestry Commission and Staffordshire County Council.

Lakes, streams and rivers combine with a mixture of broadleaf trees and spectacular Scots Pines and huge sandstone rocky outcrops to create spectacular scenery and an amazing haven for wildlife, which is beautiful at anytime of the year.

Its beauty and tranquillity has been recognised by regional and national media – The Sunday Times stated Dimmingsdale was one of the most beautiful places to walk in winter, Midlands’s television stated it as one of the best places to view Autumnal colours and it regularly features in regional press as one of Staffordshire’s hidden gems. Affectionately known as “Little Switzerland” and “Fairy Glen” it was also described by a priest as”the closest place to heaven”!