Sprawling between Birmingham, Manchester and Sheffield, Derbyshire is a picturesque area of market towns, moorland plateaus and rolling hills in England’s East Midlands. Much of the county is protected within Peak District National Park while several stately homes dot the rural surrounds.

Things to do

Whether you want to explore the county’s atmospheric market towns or escape to the majestic Peak District, Derbyshire is a gem of the Midlands region.

Explore Peak District National Park. Encompassing limestone valleys, dramatic ridges and moorland plateaus, Peak District National Park was established in 1951 as Britain’s first National Park. Make your way across the famous stepping stones of Dovedale and climb to the Peak District’s highest point, Kinder Scout, or make the multi-day trek from Edale along the Pennine Way.

Discover the museums of Derby. Sprawling along the banks of the River Derwent, Derby is home to several fine museums where you can delve into the local history. Admire the paintings by local artist Joseph Wright at the Derby Museum and Art Gallery or step into the Georgian era at the Pickford House Museum before learning about the Derwent Valley’s industrial past at the Derby Silk Mill.

Sightsee in Buxton. Founded by the Romans as Aquae Arnemetiae, Buxton is a charming spa town famed for its Georgian-style Crescent design. See where Buxton’s spring water emerges from the ground at St Ann’s Well and admire the Art Nouveau Opera House, then explore the former stable block of the Devonshire Dome.

Stretch your legs in Bakewell. The gorgeous market town of Bakewell is renowned for its Gothic bridge and limestone dales that are ideally explored on foot. Follow the scenic Monsal Trail or the circular route that leads to Chatsworth House, a 16th-century estate nicknamed the “Palace of the Peak”.

Getting around

Manchester Airport is around 30 minutes’ drive west of Derbyshire while East Midlands Airport is 45 minutes south-east. Regular trains connect from London, Birmingham and Edinburgh to Derby and Chesterfield while local bus services travel to towns and villages across the county.