Think cobbled streets, independent shops, country pubs, and walking trails that start right from the village edge.
Bakewell is famous for its tart but also its riverside charm. Ashbourne mixes antiques with outdoor access. Castleton’s caves and views are unbeatable, while Eyam’s haunting plague history gives it a quiet power.
Wirksworth is quietly artsy, and Tideswell boasts a grand church and great cafes.
From pretty Parwich and Hartington to the bustling Buxton and Matlock, each spot has its own draw—be it limestone cottages, local markets, or dramatic hillsides. In summer, everything feels more alive: village fêtes, open gardens, cold pints in pub courtyards.
Whether you’re walking, browsing, or just soaking it all in, these 16 destinations are ideal for slow days and memorable detours.
17. Wirksworth chosen by expert judges
Wirksworth is a highly rated Derbyshire market town, recently named by The Sunday Times as the best place to live in Derbyshire. With its grand stone buildings, pretty alleys and cobblestone streets, it is easy to see why. Its grand literary connections also include DH Lawrence who lived and wrote in Wirksworth. | Brian Eyre