Three Shire Heads

Three Shire Heads is a river confluence and tripoint in the Peak District where the River Dane creates small waterfalls as it flows through the landscape. An 18th-century stone packhorse bridge spans the water at the exact point where three county boundaries meet.

The bridge was built in the 18th century to connect traders moving between the surrounding villages. It served as a crossing point where goods like silk and coal crossed the river between different counties.

The site marks where three counties meet, showing how administrative divisions have shaped the rural landscape over the centuries. The presence of the old stone bridge and flowing water reflects how locals once relied on this boundary point as a crossing and gathering place.

Visit in dry weather when possible, as the paths become slippery when wet. Several walking routes lead to the site, with the route from Flash village being one of the most accessible options requiring sturdy footwear.

The cold water forms natural pools that invite swimming, even though temperatures remain chilly year-round. Visitors regularly take dips here, and the pools are deep enough to offer more than just a quick wade.

Location: Hartington Upper Quarter

Location: Macclesfield Forest and Wildboarclough

Location: Quarnford

GPS coordinates: 53.21300,-1.98700

Latest update: December 10, 2025 15:56