How to spend a day in Melbourne in Derbyshire

24 HOURS IN MELBOURNE

Morning

Why not start your day off in the best possible way with breakfast at Melbourne Hall Tea Rooms. Not only will you find an array of lovely food and drink options to set you up for the day, its location adjacent to the stunning Grade II listed Melbourne Hall will undoubtedly inspire.

Once suitably fuelled, head across the road and take in the majestic Georgian country house, admiring its beauty and long and interesting history, before immersing yourself in the simply wonderful and extensive gardens which very few estates can match.

To put it in perspective, the grounds at Melbourne Hall are home to no fewer than 20 Grade I listed features, meaning you’re in for a busy – albeit memorable – morning.

Great British Life: Melbourne Hall Tea Rooms and Courtyard Photo: Gary Wallis Melbourne Hall Tea Rooms and Courtyard Photo: Gary Wallis

Afternoon

With lunch on the horizon – and the need to give your feet a rest – head into the beautiful Georgian market town of Melbourne. There are plenty of places to recharge and the town really is a paradise for food and drink lovers.

Melbourne Delicatessen and Kitchen can be found in the heart of the town, on Derby Road, and sells everything from sandwiches, pastries, cheese, jams and preserves and more.

For an eat-in option (and something slightly more exotic), why not try The Bay Tree on Potter Street, serving delicious European/Asian fusion food in relaxed and sophisticated surroundings.

Next, it’s time for some retail therapy. Melbourne boasts over 50 shops and restaurants, ranging from galleries, antiques stores, gift shops, specialist clothes stores, independents and those selling local produce.

Evening

Head to St Michael with St Mary’s Church in Church Square to take in a Grade I listed monument which dates back to the earliest 12th century. This beautiful building has been described by prominent historian Simon Jenkins as ‘one of the finest Norman churches in the country’.

Then it’s time to enjoy some fine dining in the town. Amalfi White, on Derby Road, is an award-winning two AA Rosette restaurant offering exceptional freshly cooked food.

If you fancy post-meal drinks, there are some great options, including The Brewhouse and The Spirit Vaults.

To round off your 24 hours in Melbourne, why not enjoy the ambiance and get a good night’s rest at the popular Harpur’s of Melbourne, a building which has been at the heart of the town for over 150 years.