You can’t beat a day out at a fabulous castle or ancient manor house this winter.
These magical places are where you can live out your Jane Austen or Bridgerton dreams for a few short hours.
There is something grounding, perhaps humbling, about being in a beautiful space in the presence of an ancient building.
Visiting castles and old buildings is more than just a fun day out for fans of popular culture. It also gives people the opportunity to connect with history and learn more about local heritage.
Here are a selection of striking castles and ancient homes near Derbyshire to visit this winter.
1. Chatsworth House, Bakewell, Derbyshire DE45 1PP
Chatsworth House, home to the Devonshire Family for 17 generations is a national treasure and one of the UK's top tourist attractions. There are over 20 rooms to enjoy while gardens are also fabulous to explore. | www.shoot360.co.uk
2. Bolsover Castle, Bolsover, Chesterfield S44 6PR
Bolsover Castle perched on a hill-top used to be the go-to place for the 'It Crowd' in the 17th century. Stroll around the ruins of terrace and appreciate the pretty fountain garden. | Brian Eyre
3. Haddon Hall, Bakewell DE45 1LA
Take a step back in time to the Elizabethan era as you explore one of the UK's elegant stately homes. When visiting don't forget to go to Haddon Medieval Park comprising ancient parkland of national significance. | Submitted
4. Renishaw Hall, Renishaw Park & Gardens, Chesterfield S21 3WB
Based in the north-east of Derbyshire, this stunning family home built in 1625 continues to provide a warm welcome. Take a walk through award-winning Italianate gardens and grab a bite to eat at the cafe in the stables courtyard. | Anne Shelley