Summer holiday? Nathan Fearn looks at why the perfect location may be closer than you think.
To stay or not to stay, that is the question. Each year individuals and families across Derbyshire way up the pros and cons of a far-flung holiday abroad or a well-earned break closer to home.
Such decisions are obviously nice to have, however they have taken on added significance given the uncertain times we find ourselves in locally, nationally and internationally.
Many will no doubt take up the option of remaining UK-bound for a bit of summer R&R – and while the sun may be less guaranteed than the more exotic holidaying locations, there are nevertheless many positives to remaining on our shores.
And that perfect UK break could be closer than you think. With its world-renowned landscapes, vibrant towns and city, quintessentially English villages and limitless attractions to explore, why not choose a Derbyshire borough for your very own ‘Staycation’?
AMBER VALLEY
Nestled in the heart of Derbyshire, the Amber Valley is an attractive proposition for would-be holiday-makers and a short journey, whichever part of the county you are setting out from.
With a wide variety of accommodation available there’s something for all requirements and preferences and with the area boasting beautiful places and renowned attractions, you’ll never be short of things to do.
Notable options include Alport Stone, Belper River Gardens, Lea Green, Heage Windmill, Crich Tramway Museum, the list goes on...
DERBY
If the hustle, bustle and vibrancy of city life is more up your street, Derbyshire’s only city is the ideal staycation destination.
You won’t be short of accommodation options – with a wide range of hotels available no matter what your budget is.
Packed with restaurants, shops, pubs and more, the choices are endless in this compact, friendly and accessible city. For those with a keen sense of history and heritage, Derby Silk Mill and Derby Gaol are excellent options, while Derby also has a vibrant culture and arts scene. An ideal cosmopolitan destination.
DERBYSHIRE DALES
The Derbyshire Dales really does have something for everyone. Charming market towns, beautiful villages, historic country houses and buildings, heritage... this area of the county has the lot.
A wide range of hotels, numerous camping sites with beautiful views, holiday cottages – the Derbyshire Dales lends itself perfectly to visitors looking to enjoy a pleasant and memorable stay.
Bakewell, Matlock, Matlock Bath, Ashbourne, Chatsworth, Haddon Hall, Sudbury Hall, World Heritage Sites. Will a short stay be enough?
EREWASH
If you decide to make Erewash your destination for a summer staycation you’re not going to be short of options – both in terms of accommodation or activities.
With towns and villages such as Ilkeston, Long Eaton, Ockbrook and Sandiacre within its boundaries, you’re never far from a plethora of opportunities and things to explore.
Erewash Museum – Derbyshire Museum of the Year in 2011, 2012, 2016 and 2019 – is a must visit, so to Wollaton Hall, which is just on the doorstep.
HIGH PEAK
If exploring the great outdoors and discovering breath-taking views are your thing, you’d be hard pushed to travel anywhere in the UK that ticks those boxes better than our very own High Peak.
Famed for its beauty, a quick search will open up a whole host of appealing accommodation options, from quaint, country cottages to rural camping sites.
The High Peak Trail, which extends to 17.5 miles, is the perfect place to blow away any cobwebs while country pubs and cafes pop up regularly across this beautiful part of the world. Mam Tor, Ladybower Reservoir, Kinder Scout... the biggest decision will be knowing where to start.
NORTH EAST DERBYSHIRE
North East Derbyshire has an eclectic mix of attractions which lend themselves perfectly to the ideal staycation.
For a start, you can spend hours – or days – in the distinctive, historic market town of Chesterfield (worth a visit to the world-famous Crooked Spire while you’re there).
For a step change and something more on the rural side, the likes of Renishaw Hall, Ogston Reservoir and Woolley Moor – with its 200 acres – are just a stone’s throw away.
SOUTH DERBYSHIRE
If stunning buildings and historic, charming English villages are your thing then look no further than the south of our county.
A landscape far less rugged than that of the north of the county, open, rolling hills await you as you visit this beautiful area.
So too do a phenomenal collection of grand, historic buildings which ooze class, heritage and history. These include quirky Calke Abbey, Catton Hall and Elvaston Castle, while it’s worth adding Melbourne Hall and Gardens, Sharpe’s Pottery Museum and the historic sites of Repton and Swarkestone Bridge to the wish list too.
Some of the above may be affected by current Covid-19 restrictions. Please check ahead of travel.
