The Derwent Valley Heritage Way (DVHW) is a waymarked footpath along the Derwent Valley through the Peak District (as far as Rowsley). The walk starts from Ladybower Reservoir in the Peak District National Park via Chatsworth, the scenery around the Derbyshire Dales, and through the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site. It follows the Riverside Path through Derby and continues onwards to the historic inland port of Shardlow. Journey's end is at Derwent Mouth where the River Derwent flows into the River Trent.
The walk was established by The Derwent Valley Trust, which was set up in 1996. The route was planned and developed by Derbyshire Countryside Ranger, Rick Jillings. The Duke of Devonshire opened the walk at Chatsworth House in 2003.
Places on the route and highlights on or near the trail:
Train stations: Bamford, Hathersage, Rowsley South, Darley Dale, Matlock, Matlock Bath, Cromford, Whatstandwell, Ambergate, Belper, Duffield, Derby.
The route is covered by 4 OS Explorer maps:
Connected paths: Bonnie Prince Charlie Walk, Centenary Way (Derbyshire), High Peak Trail, Midshires Way.
The official guide book is 'The Derwent Valley Heritage Way' published by Bannister Publications, 2ed, 2014.