When planning day-trips and mini breaks, it is easy to go for popular tourist hotspots such as the Cotswolds.
However our great county of Derbyshire is filled with great spaces that are just begging to be explored - many of which could yield an even more enjoyable day out.
Plus there is none of that pesky travel that would usually see you make the three hour trek from Derby to the southern part of the country.
Derbyshire quietly boasts quiet market towns and sleepy villages that are incredible to visit this autumn.
Imagine enjoying a leisurely stroll over the cobblestone streets of Ashbourne.
Perhaps you could be charmed by the tiny town of Alfreton and spend an afternoon exploring the town’s folklore links to the Great King Alfred?
Here’s our gallery of top Derbyshire places to visit this autumn.
1. New Mills
The natural beauty of New Mills is a key draw. The town sits pretty in an area standing high above The Torrs, a natural rocky gorge, where the River Goyt and River Sett come together. There's a good offering of independent shops and eateries to explore on a day-trip in the area too. | Visit Peak District & Derbyshire
2. Belper
Belper is the perfect alternative to the Cotswolds, for anyone planning a day out this autumn and beyond. It is also the only market town based in Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site. The high street has a great array of independent shops. Farmer’s markets and food fairs are also held throughout the year in Belper’s 200-year-old marketplace. | Brian Eyre
3. Ashbourne
Ashbourne is in the middle of a £13m transformation project which means extensive work is being undertaken in the town centre. Never has there been a more apt time to support your local and enjoy a visit to Ashbourne which has acclaimed bakeries, over 200 listed buildings, and the pretty St Oswald's Parish Church with its giant 212 feet high spire, described by author George Eliot as the 'finest single spire in England'. A special shout out to jaw-dropping views from the vantage point of The Bowling Green Steakhouse, which also offers sublime food and warm hospitality. | Ria Ghei
4. Wirksworth
Magnificent stone buildings, cobbled streets and narrow alleys makes Wirksworth one of Derbyshire's quaintest towns. Marvel at the quirky Wirksworth StarDisc which illuminates the constellations at night. | Visit Peak District & Derbyshire