Three Shires Head, on Axe Edge Moor - it may sound like something out of Lord of the Rings, but we promise it's a real place! It's here on the River Dane that three different counties meet - Cheshire, Derbyshire, and Staffordshire. Back in the day it was a popular spot for brigands and thieves, who could cross from one county to another in order to escape the law. Bandits may be a thing of the past, but Three Shires Head is just as popular today - not only is it a picnic spot for ramblers in the Peaks, it's also a great place for wild-swimming.
This design shows Three Shires Head in all of its beautiful summer colours. The brook tumbles over boulders between its grassy banks. The purple heather is in full bloom, and ferns cling to the rocks on either side. Upstream, an 18th century packhorse bridge spans the water, crossing over from one county to another. Apparently you can stand with a foot in all three shires - though you might get a little wet trying! Anyone who's ever picnicked here is sure to love this tea towel - a beautiful scene to appreciate while they're busy drying the dishes!
