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Three Shires Head

Wild Swimming Spot

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Moorland, Riverside, Valley

Walking, Swimming

Spring to Autumn

Photo: Graham Hogg via Geograph.org.uk

Cold mountain water crashes over ancient stone slabs where three English county borders converge on Axe Edge Moor. An old, Grade II listed packhorse bridge spans the River Dane at this precise tripoint, connecting Cheshire, Derbyshire, and Staffordshire.

Historically, silk traders from Hollinsclou...

10

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

3

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

3 day, 7 overnight

Blaze Farm & The Potty Sheep​, The Rose & Crown – Allgreave, The Winking Man – Upper Hulme

The Buxton Hideout, Lavender Retreat, The Laburnum Retreat

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Three Shires Head?
Axe Edge Moor hosts this border convergence point where three counties meet in the Peak District. Hikers frequently visit the spot during a circular trek through the wild gritstone valley.

What type of place is Three Shires Head?
Three Shires Head is a wild swimming spot near Buxton.

When is the best time to visit Three Shires Head?
Spring through to autumn offers the most reliable weather for walking the moorland tracks and dipping in the pools. Choosing a quiet weekday morning helps you avoid the heavy weekend crowds.

What can you do at Three Shires Head?
Outdoor enthusiasts love plunging into the deep pools and paddling in the shallow waters beneath the twin cascades. Walking across the old packhorse bridge provides excellent views of the rugged landscape.

How long should I spend at Three Shires Head?
Allocating a couple of hours ensures enough time to enjoy a refreshing swim and a picnic by the river. Serious walkers might stay longer as part of a more extensive hike across the surrounding moors.

Where do I park at Three Shires Head?
Motorists can look for the ten available spaces nearby, which provide three day and seven overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Three Shires Head?
Blaze Farm & The Potty Sheep, The Rose & Crown – Allgreave, and The Winking Man – Upper Hulme represent three options for food in the surrounding area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Three Shires Head?
The Buxton Hideout, Lavender Retreat, and The Laburnum Retreat offer three places to book a stay nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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