An exciting hub for leisure and culture in the East Midlands, Derby is a great city to spend a few days in no matter where your interests may lie. From historic architecture and quaint cobbled streets, through to exceptional eateries, fascinating museums and a host of theatres and live music venues, there’s plenty to keep you busy across a long weekend in the area. Check out our Derby City Guide for more information on what to see and do in Derby.
But to any lovers of the great outdoors, the most enticing thing about Derby might just be its proximity to England’s spectacular Peak District National Park. The southern tip of the region is just under 20 kilometres from the city centre, making it a perfect base from which to explore the green peaks, winding valleys and charming villages which characterise the Peak District. With a stay in Derby, including at our Leonardo Hotel Derby hotel, you can explore the English countryside by day before making use of all the city’s amenities by evening and night.
If that’s captured your imagination, here’s just a snapshot of what there is to see and experience across the Peak District within easy reach of Derby.
Longshaw
60 minutes’ drive from Derby
At the western edges of this sprawling national park, the Longshaw Estate is a National Trust property made up of heather moorlands, parklands and ancient forests. Covering more than 1,600 acres in total, there are no end of walking trails to be enjoyed here, each offering stunning views out over the Peak District and with many being an accessible option for families.
In addition to the scenery, you’ll also catch a glimpse at the Peak District’s fascinating past, including millstone quarries and packhorse routes. With a visitor centre on-site to help you get your bearings, this is an excellent place to get started if you’re looking to explore the Peaks.
Matlock Bath
35 minutes’ drive from Derby
A day out like no other, The Heights of Abraham are one of the region’s best loved visitor attractions. Based out of a former led mine, the site is now a 60 acre woodland estate and features a series of spectacular caverns that guests can explore, learning all about how the caves were formed and used throughout the ages for industry.
Heading back above terra firma, guests are also invited to take a thrilling cable car ride from the bottom of the valley all the way to the top, taking in panoramic views as you go. Add in several exhibitions including one dedicated to fossils found in the area, as well as picnic areas, playgrounds, and eateries; and it’s easy to see why The Heights is a great day out for guests of all ages.
Matlock
30 minutes’ drive from Derby
Just outside the pretty village of Cromford, High Peak Junction combines relics of England’s industrial heritage with wonderful green scenery in all directions. Set along one of the many canals which were once the powerhouse of Industrial Revolution, the area sits among the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site, noted for its contribution to this fascinating period of history.
Arriving at High Peak Junction, you’ll find a visitor centre that includes some of the oldest surviving railway workshops on the planet, with the option of an audio tour to learn more about the former Cromford and High Peak Railway. A mile down the towpath you’ll also find the pretty Cromford Wharf with its mills and cafes, while in the other direction there’s Leawood Pump House, featuring a steam powered engine which operates on weekends and during holidays.
Harrington
45 minutes’ drive from Derby
Nestled midway between Buxton and Ashbourne, Hartington is a charming little vintage that feels quintessentially English. With rolling hills wrapping around it in all directions, this is an idyllic spot to head to if you’re looking to get out and explore the countryside.
Starting in the village, you’ll spot a whole host of period architecture including many 18th century houses, one of which hosts a very famous cheese shop that is a must for anyone with a taste for a strong vintage. Setting off along the route, you’ll eventually reach the spectacular Pilsbury Castle. This historic site is one of the most intact examples of the motte and bailey castles that were once seen all over England around a thousand years ago, and Pilsbury was thought to have been built by the Normans way back in 1100. After a look around here, the route will gently guide you back to the village along the banks of the River Dove, where you can catch your breath and enjoy some refreshments.
Bakewell
50 minutes’ drive from Derby
Home of the Cavendish family since the 1550s, Chatsworth is one of the country’s best known historic houses. With more than 30 rooms to explore, from state rooms to chapels and a Painted Hall, the estate is also home to one of Europe’s most important (and growing) art collections, known as the Devonshire Collection.
In addition to the beautiful period property, the site also contains more than 150 acres of landscape gardens where you’ll find all sorts of trails, ponds and public artwork. What’s more, the packed schedule of events that take place at Chatsworth only add to the magic, and it’s always worth seeing what might be on while you’re staying in the area.
If you’re looking to stretch your legs a little more than that, you’ll be pleased to hear that there are a whole host of walking routes that spur out from the estate, so it’s easy to combine your sightseeing with a countryside hike.
If you’re looking to use Derby as your base for exploring the picturesque Peak District, our Leonardo Hotel Derby has things covered. Modern and well-equipped with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, we’re located just at the north edge of the city centre, putting you in the thick of the action when it’s time to catch a show or go out for dinner. But if you don’t want to stray too far then there’s our all-day Costa Coffee, on-site restaurant, stylish bar and room service available.
Just like fish and chips, a roast dinner and a good cup of tea, the UK and Irela...
MORE +With an average winter temperature of approximately freezing, it’s no surp...
MORE +Donington Park, the home of motorbike experiences is a circuit race track locate...
MORE +
