ASHBOURNE

town (parish), Derbyshire Dales district, administrative and historic county of Derbyshire, England. Ashbourne is a centre for the surrounding agricultural districts and for tourists visiting nearby Dovedale and the Manyfold Valley. Its buildings include the Church of St. Oswald, dating from 1241 and possessing an octagonal spire (212 feet [65 metres]). The oldest of the famous almshouses there was founded in 1640. Small local industries include the manufacture of clocks and fishing tackle. The town has many associations with the lexicographer and author Samuel Johnson, who was a frequent visitor. Pop. (1991) 6,300.