If you’re yearning for a retreat from the stresses of everyday life then look no further than Derbyshire in the UK. Providing arguably one of the most stunning landscapes in Europe, Derbyshire combines history, culture and natural beauty with English charm throughout. For the perfect retreat from city-life, get out into the countryside and breathe some fresh air with an invigorating hike through the world-famous Peak-District, or sample some local culture at one of Derby’s many ale houses. Here is a summary of just a few of the top areas to visit in Derbyshire.
The Peak District
The Peak District offers a spectacular landscape for walks, hikes, cycles and picnics. Offering fantastic panoramic views of jagged limestone crags, this national park is a site of profound natural beauty, making it easy to see why it’s one of the most visited sites in Britain. One of the best ways to access this is remote landscape is to stay in a traditional local country cottage. Derbyshire Country Cottages provide a wide range of gorgeous accommodations where you can get a feel for the peace and quiet of local life. When Jane Austen stated in her famous novel Pride and Prejudice ‘there is no finer county in England than Derbyshire’, she was surely referring to the iconic, age-old landscape that is the Peak District.
Derby
Comprising of Derbyshire’s largest city, Derby offers a vibrant alternative to the peaceful life of the Peak District. The city may not provide an escape to the country, but it is a great place to diversify your trip and see what else the county has to offer. Visit the Quad to check out Derby’s expanding arts scene, or the local museum to discover the county’s history. Once you’ve had enough culture, why not check out the retail therapy on offer at the many high street shops or in the designer Sadlergate area. With over 30 pubs throughout the city, there is no shortage of watering holes to refresh yourself with some real ale after a long day. Many of these establishments also play host to local bands nightly, providing further entertainment to top off your trip.
Baslow
From Michelin-starred restaurants, to galleries, antique stores and fascinating architecture, the village of Baslow packs a lot into a small space. With a host of fabulous shops, selling modern and vintage furniture and unusual gifts, Baslow is a great place to find something special to take home with you. Baslow also boasts a number of stylish bars and quaint pub gardens where you can relax after a day of mooching about the shops.
Ashbourne
Ashbourne is another great place for antique collectors and boutique-lovers alike with its wide range of unique shops. On Thursdays and Saturdays the town plays host to a vibrant traditional market, in an area where trade has been running since as early as 1257. With charming historical architecture to boot, Ashbourne makes for a lovely day out.
With so much to see and do in Derbyshire, this diverse area truly does provide the perfect retreat from daily life. Whether you’re coming from near or far, you’re sure to have a memorable visit to this stunning county.
