Explore this underrated gem, a charming market town in Derbyshire, perfect for a day trip or staycation.

Derbyshire’s charm gets plenty of attention - from lifestyle hubs like Muddy Stilettos to travel giants like Condé Nast Traveller.

And honestly, it’s well deserved. One visit to Ashbourne, the picture-perfect market town tucked into the Derbyshire Dales, and I was completely smitten.

It’s got that rare combo of beauty and buzz. Whether you’re popping over for a day trip from Derby or planning a proper staycation, Ashbourne has this magnetic pull that makes you want to linger.

You can easily spend hours just wandering the high street - it’s packed with indie gems and has such a good vibe. I wasn’t expecting to find my full summer wardrobe there, but I did.

A potential plan to pull Ashbourne out of the Derbyshire Dales and in with a new “Greater Derby” council has been met with “disgust” and dubbed “totally disastrous”.

placeholder image — A potential plan to pull Ashbourne out of the Derbyshire Dales and in with a new “Greater Derby” council has been met with “disgust” and dubbed “totally disastrous”.

And if you're into sustainable shopping or love a vintage treasure hunt, Ashbourne nails that too.

That whole stretch of the high street is full of character. Think fudge shops, rustic pubs, boutique cocktail bars - basically, something for everyone, whether you're shopping, snacking, or sipping.

Ashbourne doesn’t try too hard - it doesn’t need to. It’s just effortlessly great.