Things to do in Derbyshire
Make the most of your group stay with local walks, pubs, activities and places to explore
Whether you’re staying for a family celebration, walking weekend, hen or stag gathering, corporate retreat or relaxed countryside break, there are plenty of things to do in Derbyshire within easy reach of Peak and Dale Places. Our properties are well placed for exploring Carsington Water, Ashbourne, Matlock, Wirksworth, Bakewell, Cromford and the surrounding Derbyshire Dales. This guide brings together some of our favourite local activities and places to visit, helping you plan days out, group adventures and quieter moments between meals, celebrations and time together at the house.
Use this guide to explore local ideas and plan the days around your stay at Peak and Dale Places. It is worth checking opening times, booking requirements and seasonal availability before you travel, especially for larger groups or activities that depend on the weather. Some attractions and activity providers need advance booking, while pubs and restaurants can get busy at weekends, bank holidays and school holidays. We recommend planning a few key things in advance, then leaving some space in the itinerary for slower mornings, countryside walks, local cafés and time back at the property.
Pubs and Restaurants
From cosy country pubs and relaxed cafes to restaurants for special meals, there are plenty of places nearby for groups to eat, drink and gather. Whether you’re planning a long lunch after a walk, a casual pub evening, a family-friendly meal or somewhere to pick up coffee and cake, our local guide brings together some of the best options around Peak and Dale Places.
Water Sports & Action Activities
With Carsington Water nearby, groups can add a more active element to their stay with sailing, paddleboarding, kayaking, windsurfing and other water-based activities. It’s a great option for family groups, hen and stag weekends, corporate retreats or anyone who wants to get outside and do something memorable together.
Cycling & Cycle Hire
Derbyshire is a brilliant area for cycling, with traffic-free trails, reservoir routes, country lanes and more challenging Peak District rides all within reach. Whether you’re bringing your own bikes or looking for local cycle hire, this guide will help you find routes and options for different abilities within your group.
Family Attractions
If your group includes children, teenagers or several generations, there are plenty of family-friendly places to visit nearby. From farm parks and adventure activities to heritage attractions, outdoor spaces and rainy-day options, our guide brings together ideas to help keep everyone entertained during your stay.
Local History & Heritage
Derbyshire is full of historic houses, market towns, mills, villages and heritage sites, making it easy to add a sense of place to your stay. Whether you’re interested in grand estates, industrial history, beautiful architecture or local stories, there are plenty of places nearby worth exploring.
Local Shops & Produce
For self-catering group stays, good local food makes all the difference. From farm shops and butchers to bakeries, delis, local markets and places to pick up treats for the weekend, our guide will help you find quality produce and useful supplies close to your property.
Planning Things to Do in Derbyshire
When planning things to do in Derbyshire, it helps to mix organised days out with slower, simpler activities close to your accommodation. Guests staying with Peak and Dale Places often combine countryside walks, cycling routes, historic houses, local pubs, farm shops and family attractions to create an itinerary that works for the whole group.
This guide is designed to make it easier to find things to do in Derbyshire without spending hours researching separate websites. Whether you want outdoor adventures, gentle days by the water, places to eat, local history or relaxed group-friendly activities, you’ll find plenty of ideas within reach of our Derbyshire holiday houses.
We’re always happy to offer local advice and help with your pre-arrival planning. Whether you’re organising activities for a large group, looking for family-friendly days out, planning a celebration weekend or trying to find the best places to eat nearby, please contact us and we’ll do our best to point you in the right direction. A little planning before you arrive can make your stay feel much more relaxed.
There are also some useful local resources that may help:
- Visit Peak District & Derbyshire
- Carsington Water / Severn Trent
- National Trust – Derbyshire and Peak District
Ready to Start Planning Your Stay?
Whether you’re organising a family celebration, countryside retreat, walking weekend or group getaway with friends, we’d love to help you find the right property for your stay.
Our collection of large group houses across Derbyshire and near the Peak District has been carefully chosen to bring people together in beautiful surroundings — with space to relax, celebrate and create memorable weekends away.