The English Midlands often get brushed aside — seen as neither north nor south, and somehow forgotten in the national conversation.
But that reputation is undeserved, especially when it comes to the East Midlands - especially Derbyshire.
In a recent article the The Economist reported on: “The English Midlands is unjustly overlooked: Not least by its own inhabitants.”
So we’ve taken this onboard and picked our top 15 beauty spots that prove Derbyshire is one of the best places in the UK.
5. Visit the ‘Dambusters’ training site
Local heritage fans will appreciate this Derbyshire site steeped in history. Visit Derwent Dam where RAF's 617 Squadron - famous for carrying out the famous ‘Dambusters Raid’ on the Ruhr Valley in 1943 - trained. Derwent Dam offered a landscape similar to the German dams, making it an ideal location for practicing low-level 'bouncing bomb' runs. | Johnston Press
6. Hardwick Inn, Hardwick Hall
You really can't beat sinking a pint in the sunshine, even better if the pub is close to an historic and beautiful Hardwick Hall. | Google
7. Winnats Pass, Castleton, Derbyshire
Take in gorgeous views across limestone gorges in the Peak with mythical status. Today, Winnats Pass is the sole route to Castleton from the west since the major landslip of Mam Tor in 1977 destroyed the A625 route. | Verdant Leisure
8. Show Caves includes Blue John Cavern
The Blue John Cavern is one of four show caves accessed by guided tour, and a rare treat to explore in Derbyshire. Expect to be wowed by beautiful caves with stalactites and rare Blue John Stone. | Jason Chadwick