We may still officially be in winter however today (Wednesday, February 25) Derby is set be as hot as Greece.
We reckon warm days filled with sunshine are the perfect time to explore our beautiful county.
You may perhaps feel a little spoiled for choice as the region has plenty of serene villages and hidden hamlets to explore.
Castleton is one of the Peak District’s hidden gems and a real beauty spot to check out this year.
Various glowing Tripadvisor reviews include people saying the village is ‘unbelievably scenic’ a ‘chocolate box village’, with ‘beautiful lanes and roads around the amazing village’, and ‘delightful, where a photograph can be taken on every corner’.
Castleton really comes into its own thanks to its location in the heart of the Peak District National Park.
Visit the atmospheric Medieval ruins of Peveril Castle, built in 1086 for William Peverel, who was one of William the Conqueror’s most honoured knights.
Another big tourist draw is the village’s four feature caves of Blue John Mine, Treak Cliff Cavern, Speedwell Cavern and Peak Cavern.
Here you can spot the rare mineral Blue John and see breath-taking stalactite and stalagmite formations during you visit to the caves.
Here is our photo gallery capturing the beauty of Castleton.
5. Castleton
Located at the footsteps of Mam Tor, the village is a perfect starting point for a walk with routes including the Mam Tor climb, Great Ridge, the Cave Dale trail, Winnats Pass and more. Photo: Derbyshire Times
6. Castleton
Winnats Pass, Castleton, looks stunning all year round. Photo: Phil Sproson, courtesy of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire Photo: Phil Sproson
7. Winnats Pass, Castleton
This impressive limestone gorge is said to be haunted by a young couple who were murdered whilst eloping. In 1768 a runaway pair Henry (Allen) and Clara, were married at the extra-parochial chapel of Peak Forest. While on their way to Castleton they were seized by five miners in the Winnats, dragged to a barn and murdered and the bodies were hidden in a cave. The couple's remains were eventually buried at St. Edmund's Church in Castleton. It is said that their ghosts still roam Winnats Pass, and their screams can sometimes be heard on dark nights. Clara's red leather saddle is now reportedly on display at the Speedwell Cavern Museum. Photo: Phil Sproson - Visit Peak District and Derbyshire
8. Castleton
Castleton is a great base for tourists looking to take in some of the Peak District’s most popular attractions - including the likes of Winnats Pass, Cave Dale, Mam Tor, Blue John Cavern and Peveril Castle. Photo: jason chadwick