Things to do - Derbyshire

Some parts of the UK are so stunning that whatever time of year you choose to visit you can be sure to have a wonderful experience. Derbyshire is a county that is full of rugged hills and spectacular mountains with paths that can lead down to magical underground caves and rolling farmland as far as the eye can see. Dotted all around the county are picturesque villages and hamlets with friendly locals who will make you very welcome. Many of the cottages, large manor houses and stately homes are built from local stone giving Derbyshire a unique aspect that draws back so many people year upon year.

In the centre and north of Derbyshire lies the Peak District National Park which was established in 1951. Covering 125 parishes and home to over 38,000 people, the park is an area of uncommon peace and tranquility as well as offering adventure. You can experience challenging climbs, scenic walks, caving and cycling. Or, just take a picnic and enjoy the fantastic backdrop of the beautiful peaks. Visitors to Derbyshire have the pick of a wealth of accommodation. Glamping in the peaks is a favourite choice and means you can be close to nature without giving up most of the home comforts that everyone wants on a holiday. It doesn't have to be a tent. You can pick a shepherds hut or yurt and all are fully equipped with luxuries like a wood fired eco hot tub or, in winter, a cosy log burner.

Throughout the area of Derbyshire there is pet friendly accommodation so you don't have to worry about leaving behind your four legged friends. There is a wide choice of self catering flats and apartments and many of the bed and breakfast hostelries and hotels also welcome pets. If your preference is for self catering, the choice of cottages and apartments is vast. There are superb farmers markets where you can buy local fresh produce to cook at home. Alternatively, you can enjoy a meal in a traditional peak district inn or choose fine dining in one of the many bistros and restaurants which all offer local cuisine.

One favourite place to visit is The Bluebell Tearoom in Swadlincote. A relaxed atmosphere with a wide choice of food and drink and plenty of choice for vegetarians and visitors with special dietary needs. Situated just off the High Street, the tearoom has an extensive menu of lunches and light bites. After a long day exploring amazing Derbyshire, an afternoon tea here is an experience not to be missed.

Whether you choose summer or winter for a visit there is always a lot going on in Derbyshire. Chatsworth House stands on the banks of the River Derwent and has been the location for many famous films including the celebrated Pride and Prejudice. It has been the home of the Dukes of Devonshire since 1549 and offers plenty of activities and events for all the family throughout the year.

As well as the usual type of attractions, Derbyshire also has the Seasoned Cookery School which offers unique and high end cookery classes teaching a range of skills and cuisines. If you are a foodie and want to learn how to create exotic dishes ranging from Thai and Malaysian through to traditional bread making and baking, this is the cookery school for you. Located in the Old Stables of Catton Estate in South Derbyshire, the school teaches essential cooking skills in a fun and friendly atmosphere with half day courses starting from just GBP85. Designed to inspire, educate and entertain, a cooking course here will give you the skills and confidence to create dishes that are equally tasty and unique.

Offering the great outdoors, striking architecture, scenic hikes, ice age caves and Buxton Spa, Derbyshire receives millions of visitors each year. The natural and man made attractions have served to make this one of the most visited counties in the UK. So, whether you want to conquer Kinder Scout, visit the plague village of Eyam or explore the unique landscapes, Derbyshire should go on your list of places to visit this year. #uktravelandtourism #visitDerbyshire


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