Ten must-visit places in Derbyshire

Anybody looking into Peak District holidays will probably be wondering what exactly is there to see and do in beautiful Derbyshire? Aside from getting out and exploring Peak District National Park on foot, here are our top-10 suggestions.

Bakewell

If you have a sweet tooth then a quick visit to Bakewell, home of the legendary Bakewell pudding and tart, really is a must. This charming market town is nestled in the Derbyshire Dales and has plenty of interesting shops to peruse and cafes, pubs and restaurants to frequent.

Carsington Water

Walk or cycle around this huge reservoir or get out on Carsington Water itself and enjoy sailing and other such activities. There’s fun for all the family to be had here thanks to a children’s playground and the fact there’s a visitors’ centre where you can learn all about water.

Chatsworth House

Derbyshire and the surrounding area is blessed with an abundance of grand stately homes and they don’t come much more lavish than Chatsworth House. Have a look around the house, its garden, the on-site farmyard and let the little ones loose on the adventure playground.

Chesterfield’s Crooked Spire

In the town of Chesterfield is a church with a difference. The infamous Crooked Spire is pretty much self-explanatory and can probably be classed as Derbyshire’s answer to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. It has to be seen to be believed.

Crich Tramway Village

Transport yourself back to a golden era of British transport at Crich Tramway Village. This open-air museum is set in an Edwardian village where you can ride on the trams, peruse the shops or just soak up its unique atmosphere.

Dovedale

Set in the heart of the Peak District, Dovedale is believed to attract as many as a million visitors each year. Those who do venture to the valley can cross the stepping stones over the River Dove, visit Milldale village or scale Wolfscote Hill.

Heights of Abraham

Take to the air in a cable car to see stunning views of the surrounding area at the Heights of Abraham. Once at the top there are woodlands walks to enjoy, two caverns tours and a host of other exciting things to do and see.

Matlock Bath

Not far from the Heights of Abraham is the charming village of Matlock Bath. See the famous illuminations, firework displays, rafts races and other special events that go on throughout the year here, as well as take in the fascinating history of the place.

Peak Railway

Go back in time and take a special trip on the Peak Railway, a preserved line that is home to an array of steam trains. Learn more about these iconic forms of transport and you can even learn to drive a steam locomotive for yourself.

Sadler Gate

If you enjoy a spot of retail therapy then a trip to Derby is essential. The Sadler Gate area of the city is packed with boutique shops selling pretty much anything and everything you can imagine. After you’ve had your fill of shopping then head to Derby’s restaurant quarter for mouth-watering cuisine from all over the world.

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Guest post by Derbyshire-cottages.info