The Best Derbyshire Attractions & Activities

Chatsworth House in Derbyshire is a grand stately home of the Cavendish family, famed for its opulent interiors, priceless art, and 105-acre gardens. Set in the Peak District, it’s one of England’s most visited and admired historic estates.

Crich Tramway Village in Derbyshire is a living museum where vintage trams run through a recreated historic village and countryside tracks. With exhibitions, period streets, and family activities, it brings transport history vividly to life.

Haddon Hall in Derbyshire is a stunning medieval manor, famed for its Tudor interiors, terraced gardens, and riverside views. Often called “the most complete house of its period,” it’s a romantic setting frequently used in films and TV.

Hardwick Hall in Derbyshire is an Elizabethan masterpiece built by Bess of Hardwick. Famous for its vast windows, rich tapestries, and grand design, it stands amid landscaped gardens and parkland as a symbol of Tudor wealth and power.

Cromford Mills in Derbyshire is the world’s first water-powered cotton spinning mill, founded by Sir Richard Arkwright in 1771. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it explores the Industrial Revolution with museums, tours, shops, and riverside walks.

Gulliver’s Kingdom in Matlock Bath, Derbyshire, is a family theme park designed for children aged 2–13. With rides, play areas, and adventure attractions set on a hillside, it offers fun in a scenic Peak District setting.

Blue John is Britain's rarest mineral first discovered at Castleton by the Romans almost 2000 years ago. These are the world's only known deposits of this extremely rare and beautiful stone

seventeenth century Bolsover Castle is a wonderful place to imagine the Golden age of Chivalry. Set on a hilltop overlooking the Vale of Scarsdale, it offers panoramic views over the surrounding countryside

Arbor Low Stone Circle in Derbyshire is a prehistoric monument of limestone stones and earthworks. Set on a hilltop with wide views, it offers a striking glimpse into ancient ritual landscapes.

Belper River Gardens in Derbyshire offer elegant riverside walks beside the River Derwent. With colourful flowerbeds, a historic bandstand and peaceful views, they provide a charming spot to relax within this UNESCO World Heritage landscape.

The Children’s Country House at Sudbury, a National Trust property in Derbyshire, invites families to explore a historic hall designed with young visitors in mind. Interactive rooms, gardens and trails bring heritage to life through play and discovery.