Welcome to Derbyshire
Explore the beautiful countryside of Derbyshire
Home to the Peak District National Park, as well as lots of pretty market towns, Derbyshire is a county that has plenty to discover. Indulge in a walk over rolling countryside or visit one of the county's many tourist attractions - just make sure you visit a pub or tearoom along the way!
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Things to do in Derbyshire
Five free things to do in Derbyshire
Chatsworth Park
is probably Derbyshire’s most loved building and country estate, and really is perfect for any family looking for a day out in the fresh air. Whilst the house itself is considered the main attraction, the grounds are vast and set alongside the River Derwent which snakes its way through the Chatsworth Estate. The kids will love the sheep and the deer which roam the large open spaces which are ideal for summer picnicking.
Bakewell
Famed for its sweet, rich pudding, Bakewell has plenty more to offer than purely its culinary delights. Set on the River Wye, the town is a honeypot for tourists, who come to enjoy Bakewell's beautiful stone buildings, independent shops and its range of cosy pubs and pretty cafes.
Dovedale
Just a little way from one of YHA’s Peak District properties, YHA Ilam Hall, is one of Derbyshire’s most popular areas in which to enjoy a walk. The highlight of walks in Dovedale is the famous stepping stones which cross the River Dove, flanked by the limestone geology which typifies the valley.
Stanage Edge
If a more dramatic and challenging landscape is preferable when looking for places to walk, you’ll do a lot worse than tying up your boots and heading up to Stanage Edge. The gritstone edge is classic Dark Peak and offers stunning views across the surrounding moorlands and the Hope Valley.
Matlock Bath
There are few places in the UK quite like Matlock Bath. It is a town that enjoys the feel of a traditional seaside resort, yet geographically couldn’t be further from the coast. Popular with bikers and families, the town enjoys attractive gardens, arcades, an aquarium and of course the Heights of Abraham, a cable car system which allows stunning views of the Derwent Valley and the surrounding Peak District.
Stunning countryside and places to explore in Derbyshire
Situated in the very heart of England, Derbyshire is best known for the Peak District, quaint villages, historic market towns and magnificent stately homes.
An outdoors-lover’s paradise, the Peak District is the UK’s oldest national park, with both the Dark and the White Peak offering an abundance of contrasting countryside for walkers, cyclists and climbers alike to enjoy and get their thrills.
For those who prefer a slower pace, the county is blessed with pretty towns such as Bakewell, Ashbourne and Buxton, all ideal for wandering around and enjoying a coffee or a bite to eat. Beyond the Peak District, Derbyshire is also blessed with some key historical buildings, including Arkwright’s Mill, home of the Industrial Revolution and Hardwick Hall, a key landmark in British Tudor history.
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Alton Towers
There's something for all thrill seekers and families at Alton Towers, with tons of terrific (and terrifying!) rides and amazing live shows. Plus, there's CBeebies Land for the little ones.
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Arbor Low Stone Circle
The most important prehistoric site of the East Midlands, Arbor Low is a Neolithic henge monument atmospherically set amid high moorland. Some say that this is the finest Stone Age 'henge'
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Asda Foundation Derby Half Marathon
Organised by Run For All for the first time in 2018, the Asda Foundation Derby Half Marathon – formerly known as the Ramathon - proved to be a welcome addition to Run For All’s events calendar, attrac
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Ashbourne
Ashbourne has remained largely unchanged since the 18th century, with it's Medieval street pattern and historic buildings.
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Bakewell
Take a trip to Bakewell and discover this charming Derbyshire Dales town. You'll find great shopping, plenty of spaces to relax and the famous Bakewell Pudding confection.
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Blue John Cavern
The tour starts with a short flight of steps before visitors can appreciate the awe-inspiring majesty of the natural caverns. Then as you go deeper the history of Blue John, or bleu-jaune,
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Carsington Water (Reservoir)
Visit Britain’s newest reservoir and explore the trails through spectacular scenery. It offers a lovely day out for all the family with a children's play area, visitor centre, watersport centre
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Chatsworth House
The stately home and 1000 acre park of the Duke of Devonshire.
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Conkers
A unique mix of indoor and outdoor experiences to keep the family entertained. Don't miss the Enchanted Forest Play area. Enjoy the great outdoors with all the family at Conkers.
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Crich Tramway Museum
A lovingly restored period village that is also home to the National Tramway Museum and its world renowned archives. Travel on one of the many working trams. Visit when there is a special
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Cycling in Eyam
YHA Eyam is an ideal location for enjoying one of the many circular cycling routes around the lovely Peak District.
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Cycling in Youlgreave
The nearby Tissington Trail winds its way gently through beautiful White Peak countryside. Take the opportunity to visit historic Tissington village with its stately home, duck-pond and tearooms.
View some of our popular Derbyshire blogs
Discovering National Parks – The Peak District
UK National Parks – world-class landscapes, stunning natural beauty, packed full of wildlife and big skies. Here is your guide to visiting the famous hills of the Peak District, home of outdoor adventure...
The White Peak Way – Derbyshire at its best
Gorgeous river valleys, dramatic rock art, stately homes, hidden dales filled with wildflowers…you’ll find it all on the White Peak Way. Our guest blogger Caroline Wood found out this summer...
Our guide to the best Peak District walks
Peak District walks are great. Breathing in that crisp air and taking in the superb views is what walking in the Peak District National Park is all about....