Campsites in Derbyshire

Derbyshire’s outdoor pursuits

For those looking for outdoor activities, Derbyshire and the Peak District National Park caters for all. Hikers, climbers and cavers are spoilt for choice. The Roaches, Stanage Edge and Windgather Rocks are popular with rock climbers.

There are many caves to explore across the Peak District. The Castleton caves, Peak District Mining Museum and Speedwell Cavern are great for families to visit, all with good access and guided tours. There are several activity centres in the area that offer instructors for those wanting to explore caving as a sport.

There are endless walking routes in Derbyshire, offering some of the best views in the UK. Ask campsite staff for the best walking routes in the area you’re camping in. The Longden Trail stretches 6.5 miles and offers wonderful views of the Peak District.

Cyclists have plenty of options when camping in Derbyshire. From quiet, countryside routes to challenging terrain, there’s a cycle route for everyone. There are plenty of places to hire a bike once you’re there so if you fancy a cycle whilst on a campsite in Derbyshire the options is always there.

Top historical attractions

1. Visit Chatsworth House for breath-taking landscapes, diverse art and plenty of things to explore. The working farmyard is a great chance to meet some of the animals on the estate and join in with seasonal activities. There are gift shops and plenty of places to grab a bite to eat, making Chatsworth great for a day out. Dogs are allowed within the grounds as long as they’re kept on a lead at all times.
   
   
2. Bolsover Castle, built to entertain in the 17th-century has a fairy-tale-like appearance. The newly restored castle walls come with stunning views of the Vale of Scarsdale. The interior is interactive and great for kids, with no barriers or ropes in place. You’re encouraged to feel and sit on the 17th-century style furniture.
   
   
3. The Old House Museum, the oldest building in Bakewell offers 10 themed rooms to explore. Each room showcases objects from different time periods. The well sign-posted museum is great to visit whilst exploring Bakewell.
   
   
4. At Haddon Hall, you’ll be immersed in centuries of art, craftsmanship and history. The location has been featured in many period films due to its stunning exterior. Parts of the building date back to the 12th-century and today the Medieval and Tudor influences can be seen clearly. Haddon Hall is well worth a visit if you’re camping in Derbyshire.
   
   
5. The Peak District Lead Mining Museum is a great way for the whole family to learn about the mining history in the area. Take a tour into the authentic 1920s mine and try your hand at panning for gold.
   
   
6. Peveril Castle is an 11th-century ruined castle which overlooks Castleton is great fun for the whole family. Climb the steep hill to reach the ruined castle and enjoy fantastic views over the village. The visitor centre offers information about the castle’s past and there’s a small gift shop.
   
   
7. One of the top attractions in Derbyshire, Heage Windmill is the only working six-sailed stone tower windmill in England. Take a guided tour of the building to learn all about its history. The shop sells souvenirs, the windmills own flour and refreshments.


8. Hardwick Hall is an Elizabethan masterpiece in Chesterfield. There's plenty to do during a visit like strolling around the gardens nad keep an eye out for special events!

Other Derbyshire attractions

A visit to the village of Matlock Bath isn’t complete without a trip to Matlock Bath Aquarium & Exhibitions. Your entry fee gives you access to all of the attractions within the building. The aquarium houses over 50 varieties of fish, the Petrifying Well is popular with kids and Past Times in Matlock Bath exhibition offers a trip down memory lane. The Heights of Abraham is another popular attraction in Matlock Bath.

The village of Castleton offers plenty of things to do. There are 4 caves in Castleton that offer guided tours. Blue John and Treak Cliff offer beautiful examples of stalactite formations. Peak Cavern is famed for its old rope-making works and Speedwell is an old, flooded lead mine.

Crich Tramway Village will be a hit with the whole family. Take a ride on one of the trams through the unique period street and out into the countrywide for some great views. Explore the exhibitions, watch as old trams are restored in the workshop and stop off at the fully restored Red Lion Pub for a bite to eat.

Creswell Crags are a series of caves dating back to the Ice Age. Take a tour to see the ancient cave markings, explore the museum which showcases items found at Creswell Crags and stop off for a snack at the café.

At the Midland Railway Centre, you can take a trip on a heritage train, explore the museum, enjoy the model railways and make use of the great facilities. This is a great day out for all ages.

Solomon’s Temple is built on a Bronze Age burial mound overlooking the town of Buxton. Free to visit, the building was rebuilt in 1896 to replace the old ruined building. A 20-minute walk from Poole’s Cavern, this is a great spot to enjoy views of up to 15 miles away on a good day.

Archie’s Farm is a miniature animal farm, home to donkeys, goats, pigs, guinea pigs and many more. Visit the farm and get up close to some of the residents during the daily feeding and handling sessions.

Visit Masson Mills, the finest surviving Arkwright cotton mill. The working textile mill has textile machinery dating back to the 18th-century and gives an insight into what working life was like at the factory. Tour the museum yourself or enjoy a group guided tour. Masson Mills is now home to a shopping village, holding around 60 different retail concepts. Enjoying views over the River Derwent, the Derwent Restaurant is a great pit stop between the mill and shops.