The stunning spa town of Buxton has been attracting crowds who enjoy its natural thermal springs since Roman times. Much of its beautiful Georgian and Victorian architecture is said to be rooted in the 5th Duke of Devonshire's ambitions to create a rival spa town to Bath in the 18th century. (Pictured is the view of the Old Hall Hotel and the Devonshire Dome.)placeholder image
The stunning spa town of Buxton has been attracting crowds who enjoy its natural thermal springs since Roman times. Much of its beautiful Georgian and Victorian architecture is said to be rooted in the 5th Duke of Devonshire's ambitions to create a rival spa town to Bath in the 18th century. (Pictured is the view of the Old Hall Hotel and the Devonshire Dome.) | Visit Peak District & Derbyshire

I fall in love with these Derbyshire market towns and villages every time I visit

Emma Walker
By Emma Walker

Editor

Published 23rd Jan 2026, 14:29 GMT

Explore the charm and allure of Derbyshire’s market towns and villages

Derbyshire is steeped in history and natural beauty, and there are many towns and villages that have preserved these aspects for future generations.

These historic and beautiful market towns are an easy drive from Derby and accessible by public transport.

If you are looking for a place to explore, here are nine historic market towns near Derby:

The historical and charming limestone village of Hartington is also home of cheese-making in Derbyshire. The famous duck pond is a key focal point, while fine buildings to admire include Market Hall and Hartington Hall.

5. Hartington

The historical and charming limestone village of Hartington is also home of cheese-making in Derbyshire. The famous duck pond is a key focal point, while fine buildings to admire include Market Hall and Hartington Hall. | Visit Peak District & Derbyshire

Based around six miles north of Matlock, the estate village of Beeley was originally inhabited by employees of the Duke of Devonshire. Beeley is home to several award-winning country pubs perfect places for sipping a pint (or two) as well.

6. Beeley

Based around six miles north of Matlock, the estate village of Beeley was originally inhabited by employees of the Duke of Devonshire. Beeley is home to several award-winning country pubs perfect places for sipping a pint (or two) as well. | Visit Peak District & Derbyshire

The pretty village of Hathersage boasts rich historical, industrial and literary associations, said to be the inspiration behind Charlotte Brontë's masterpiece Jane Eyre. In and around the village are also areas associated with the legend of Robin Hood, whose lieutenant Little John is buried in the churchyard of St Michael’s.

7. Hathersage

The pretty village of Hathersage boasts rich historical, industrial and literary associations, said to be the inspiration behind Charlotte Brontë's masterpiece Jane Eyre. In and around the village are also areas associated with the legend of Robin Hood, whose lieutenant Little John is buried in the churchyard of St Michael’s. | Visit Peak District & Derbyshire

The picturesque village of Castleton is known across the county for its stunning views, rare Blue John Stone, Norman castle ruins, the poetically named 'Shivering Mountain' Mam Tor, and the ancient Peveril Castle ruins.

8. Castleton

The picturesque village of Castleton is known across the county for its stunning views, rare Blue John Stone, Norman castle ruins, the poetically named 'Shivering Mountain' Mam Tor, and the ancient Peveril Castle ruins. | David Dixon / Geograph Photo: David Dixon / Geograph

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