From the glittering heights of a massive reservoir to the deep, limestone gorges of Matlock Bath, the Carsington Connection (Services 110 & 111) is more than just a bus route—it is a backstage pass to some of the most dramatic scenery in the Derbyshire Dales. Operated by The Ashbourne Little Bus Company, this service creates a vital link between the county town of Matlock and the historic market town of Ashbourne, weaving through a tapestry of stone-built villages and rolling hills along the way.
Whether you are a walker looking to access the High Peak Trail, a family heading for a day of watersports, or a history buff exploring the cradle of the Industrial Revolution, hopping aboard this friendly local bus is the perfect way to leave the car behind and immerse yourself in the landscape.
What makes this route special
The true charm of the Carsington Connection lies in its variety. In just under an hour, the view from your window shifts from the Victorian seaside-style promenade of Matlock Bath to the rugged, dry-stone walled pastures of the White Peak.
The route conquers some impressive terrain, offering passengers sweeping vistas that car drivers often miss while concentrating on the winding roads. The highlight for many is the passage around Carsington Water, where the bus offers elevated views of the glistening reservoir before dipping into ancient villages that feel untouched by time. It is a route that celebrates the “real” Derbyshire—working agricultural communities, stunning industrial heritage, and accessible wilderness.
A journey through the Dales: Route breakdown
The journey begins in the bustling county town of Matlock, where the bus winds its way south along the River Derwent.
The Derwent Valley Leg
Almost immediately, you enter the drama of Matlock Bath. Known as a “seaside town without the sea,” look out for the cable cars ascending the heights of Abraham and the row of fish and chip shops that give this gorge its unique character. A few minutes later, you arrive in Cromford, the birthplace of the factory system. The bus passes tantalisingly close to the historic mills, part of the UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Climb to Wirksworth
Leaving the valley floor, the bus begins its steep ascent up Cromford Hill. As you climb towards Steeple Grange, the views back across the Derwent Valley are spectacular. This section brings you to the quirky and creative town of Wirksworth, a maze of narrow streets and historic quarrymen’s cottages.
The Village Divide (Services 110 vs 111)
Here, the route splits into two variations, so it is worth checking the destination blind or asking your driver:
- Service 111 (The Reservoir Route): This version climbs up through Middleton by Wirksworth and passes Hopton and the village of Carsington before turning directly into the main visitor complex at Carsington Water. It is the only public transport that drops you right at the water’s edge. It then continues through the picture-perfect village of Hognaston.
- Service 110 (The Village Route): This variation bypasses the main visitor centre entrance to serve the deeper rural communities. It travels through the beautiful limestone village of Brassington and near Bradbourne, offering a rare glimpse into these quiet, tucked-away hamlets.
The Final Stretch
Both services reunite at Kniveton, a small village with a distinct red-brick church, before descending the long hill into Ashbourne. Known as the “Gateway to Dovedale,” Ashbourne’s cobbled market place and Georgian architecture provide a fittingly grand finale to the trip.
When does the route run?
The Carsington Connection (110/111) typically operates Monday to Saturday.
- Frequency: The service generally runs every hour to 90 minutes during the day, alternating between the 110 and 111 variants. This means you have regular options, but you need to plan ahead if you specifically want to visit the Carsington Water Visitor Centre (Service 111) or Brassington (Service 110).
- Sundays and Bank Holidays: Service on these days can be limited or non-existent depending on the season, so it is essential to check the latest Hulley’s of Baslow timetable before traveling.
Tickets and value for money
Traveling by bus in Derbyshire offers exceptional value, especially for groups and families.
- Derbyshire Wayfarer: If you plan to hop on and off the bus to explore Wirksworth, the reservoir, and Ashbourne in one day, the Derbyshire Wayfarer ticket is your best friend. It offers unlimited travel on almost all buses (and trains!) across the county for the whole day.
- Single Fares: For simple A-to-B journeys, single fares are very affordable, often capped under government schemes (currently £2.00, though subject to change).
- Contactless: All Hulley’s buses accept contactless card payments, Apple Pay, and Google Pay, so there is no need to fumble for exact change.
Top tips for the journey
- Sit on the Left: If you are travelling from Matlock towards Ashbourne, try to grab a seat on the left-hand side of the bus. You will get the best views of the Derwent Valley as you climb out of Cromford, and the best views of Carsington Water as you pass the dam.
- Boots on Board: This route is incredibly popular with walkers. You can take the bus to Middleton by Wirksworth to join the High Peak Trail, walk a section, and catch the bus back from a different stop.
- Check the Number: Remember, if you want the Visitor Centre café and shops, you need the 111. If you get on the 110, you will enjoy a lovely tour of Brassington, but you will have a long walk to the water!
Planning a day out on this route
Here is a perfect itinerary for a scenic Saturday using the Carsington Connection:
- 09:30 – Start in Matlock: Grab a coffee in town before heading to the Bakewell Road bus stands.
- 10:00 – Explore Wirksworth: Hop off at Wirksworth. Spend an hour exploring the StarDisc (a 21st-century stone circle) or browsing the independent shops.
- 11:30 – The Reservoir: Catch the next 111 service to Carsington Water. Enjoy a walk along the dam wall, rent a bike, or have lunch at the visitor centre overlooking the boats.
- 14:30 – On to Ashbourne: Board the bus for the final leg to Ashbourne.
- 15:00 – Afternoon Tea: Wander the cobbled streets of Ashbourne, visit the majestic St Oswald’s Church, and treat yourself to a gingerbread man (an Ashbourne specialty) before catching the bus back to Matlock.
The Carsington Connection isn’t just a way to get from A to B; it’s a day out in itself, threading together the very best of the Derbyshire Dales.
