Regardless of the time of the year, Derbyshire, located in the East Midlands of England, is a fantastic place to visit for a family day out.
It is also a great choice for short breaks and holidays for couples of all ages, with an extensive choice of accommodation options, including luxury spa hotels, boutique hotels and budget hotels. There’s plenty of choice in Derbyshire, both in terms of accommodation choices and things to do.
With a substantial part of the Lake District situated within Derbyshire, a visit here is a must. Described as a world of contrasting beauty with heather clad moors, green dales, ice cold rivers and springs throughout, the Lake District is breathtakingly stunning. At its heart is the luscious Peak District National Park.
Visit the Peak District
The Peak District offers walkers plenty of footpaths and trails to choose from, some established many years ago by the area’s residents on their travels to and from market. Stop of at Dovedale and enjoy a lovely walk to the stepping stones and beyond.
If you like to explore historic houses then there are some of the best located within Derbyshire, including Chatsworth, Haddon Hall and Renishaw Hall. Chatsworth is set in the heart of the Peak District with over 30 rooms to explore, including the beautiful sculpture gallery, and you will not be disappointed by this real treasure house of England.
Bolsover Castle is also well worth a visit. Perched on a hill top overlooking Derbyshire, it was designed both to entertain and impress. An extremely interesting castle, both from an historical and architectural viewpoint, there are audio guides available that help to provide an insight into the 17th Century, when this house was in its heyday.
Family Day Out
Take the family and explore Poole’s Cavern, an exciting journey beneath the earth. Tour guides are on hand to offer insight into the vast limestone caverns and explain how the crystal stalactites and stalagmites have formed to line the caverns chambers over a million years ago. Complete your day back above ground by enjoying the scenic country park and woodlands, great for young children to run about in.
The Heights of Abraham and its cable car ride offer something truly memorable. With sweeping views over the whole county, it is not to be missed.
Derbyshire is home to many museums and galleries, with the Derby Museum & Art Gallery playing host to the permanent collection of paintings by Joseph Wright of Derby. The National Brewery Centre is also well worth a visit, giving an overview of a brewing experience incorporating originals from the original Bass Museum. This offers insight into the now legendary Bass family and their role in the development of brewing.