The stunning spa town of Buxton has been attracting crowds who enjoy its natural thermal springs since Roman times. Much of its beautiful Georgian and Victorian architecture is said to be rooted in the 5th Duke of Devonshire's ambitions to create a rival spa town to Bath in the 18th century. (Pictured is the view of the Old Hall Hotel and the Devonshire Dome.)placeholder image
The stunning spa town of Buxton has been attracting crowds who enjoy its natural thermal springs since Roman times. Much of its beautiful Georgian and Victorian architecture is said to be rooted in the 5th Duke of Devonshire's ambitions to create a rival spa town to Bath in the 18th century. (Pictured is the view of the Old Hall Hotel and the Devonshire Dome.) | Visit Peak District & Derbyshire

15 charming market towns and pretty Derbyshire villages to explore this summer

Ria Ghei
By Ria Ghei

Senior Reporter

Published 31st Aug 2025, 10:00 GMT

Discover the charm and history of 15 historic Derbyshire market towns and villages, perfect for a summer day out.

Derbyshire is a heritage-rich, beautiful region welcoming visitors from all over the world, who leave in awe of the historic, stunning county.

Said to have been formed in the 11th century, Derbyshire is filled with old market towns and villages that tell stories of times gone by.

If you love cobbled streets and ancient walking trails then our list of top Derbyshire market towns and villages is one for you.

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These places are well worth a trip out for visitors today as these settlements now boast rustic country pubs, independent shops and more.

From Bakewell’s riverside charm to Castleton’s unbeatable views and Eyam’s sobering plague history, there is so much to explore and love about Derbyshire.

Each place has its own draw, from pretty limestone cottages and thriving market days to dramatic hillsides.

Whether you’re walking, browsing, or just soaking it all in, these 15 charming destinations are ideal for slow days and memorable detours.

Tucked away in the White Peak area of the Peak District National Park is the picturesque village of Alstonefield. It is located on the Derbyshire and Staffordshire borders, between the valleys of the Dove and the Manifold rivers and at the crossroads of ancient packhorse routes. Enjoy a drink with a view at one of the village's top pub, The George.

13. Alstonefield

Tucked away in the White Peak area of the Peak District National Park is the picturesque village of Alstonefield. It is located on the Derbyshire and Staffordshire borders, between the valleys of the Dove and the Manifold rivers and at the crossroads of ancient packhorse routes. Enjoy a drink with a view at one of the village's top pub, The George. | Visit Peak District & Derbyshire

Beautiful villages erected around a grand old hall, an ancient church and picturesque duck pond is home to the Fitzherbert family for over 400 years; it is also the family's magnificent Jacobean residence at the Hall. Of particular significance to visitors is the Tissington to Hartington route, which could be great for hikers to explore.

14. Tissington

Beautiful villages erected around a grand old hall, an ancient church and picturesque duck pond is home to the Fitzherbert family for over 400 years; it is also the family's magnificent Jacobean residence at the Hall. Of particular significance to visitors is the Tissington to Hartington route, which could be great for hikers to explore. | Visit Peak District & Derbyshire

Great Longstone is a quaint limestone village set around a pretty little green with an old cross.

15. Great Longstone

Great Longstone is a quaint limestone village set around a pretty little green with an old cross. | Visit Peak District & Derbyshire

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