Located within equal distance of two major cities, this English village has captured the heart’s of residence and visitors thanks to its strong community spirit and rural attitude
A tranquil village with a population of just 505 has been branded a Shangri-La – and residents couldn’t agree more.
Stanton by Dale is a civil parish located in the south-east of Derbyshire, England. It’s a mere stone’s throw away from the peak district, nestled in between Nottingham and Derby, and looks like it’s been frozen in time – filled with rows of cosy cottages, proper pubs a traditional church, and even a cast-iron water pump – before you hit endless greenery in the background. Photographer Ashley Franklin visited the ‘wonderful village and found out what makes this place an ‘idyllic oasis’ for those that live there.
The professional photographer quickly realised how strong of a community Stanton by Dale had built in recent years, an important factor for many in a post-Covid world. Whether it’s rocking up to the cricket club or sipping pints in everyone’s favourite boozer Chequers, the town prides itself on providing a ‘warm and welcoming ambience’ to passersby – namely walkers and nature lovers exploring its rural beauty.
The storybook town boasts the peace and quiet of the countryside, with residents only hearing sheep baa at night, but is far from isolated. Local businesses thrive here, supported by every Tom, Dick, and Harry that all chat to each other on the way to the cafe or supermarket. Everyone knows there way around too, with the layout of streets staying exactly the same since 1767.
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Many residents have lived in the area all their life, and wouldn’t dream of packing their bags. “At my age, I feel I ought to downsize but I just won’t leave Stanton,’ one local told Derbyshire Life. “It’s in my blood. I love the fact that you can’t walk up the street without stopping for a chat. This is a very close-knit village.” Another resident, named Ralph, agreed: “Stanton is a warm, friendly village that wraps itself around you. Before long, it’s like you’ve never lived anywhere else.” Marie, originally from Stapleford, Nottinghamshire, added: “And once you get here, you wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.”
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