Discovering Derbyshire's stunning waterfalls, perfect for exploring the Peaks for a winter adventure

As we officially enter the winter season, you may be thinking of things to do with the family and embracing the great outdoors.

How about enjoying a crisp winter walk with scenes that look as if you’re stepping into a postcard?

Luckily for us, Derbyshire, also known as ‘The Gateway to the Peaks’ has numerous beauty spots, all the more gorgeous in winter.

Some have simply gorgeous backdrops of serene country parks and grand, historic estates.

All of the waterfalls are less than 60 minutes away from Derby, listed in order of proximity to the city centre.

Here is our round-up of six stunning waterfalls to explore this winter.

Please do check the weather before venturing out to see if the area is safe to explore.

Belper River Gardens

Located just 25-minutes north of Derby city centre, outside the town of Belper, you can explore the Belper River Gardens.

The riverside promenade makes for a beautiful day out. There’s a children’s play area and good amenities such as public toilets for comfort breaks and car parking facilities nearby.

In the summer, you can also hire a rowing boat or pedalo to travel up and down the River Derwent.

Highfields Park

Based next to the University of Nottingham campus and just 30-minutes from Derby city centre, is this stunning cascade.

Highfields Park offers 121 acres of public land including exciting stepping stones across the water.

At the Grade II listed park, you can hire rowing boats, canoes, kayaks and katakanus on the lake. It also has a children’s play area and a cafe.

Lumsdale Valley

Located 35-minutes north of Derby city centre, on the edge of the Peak District National Park, you can find Lumsdale Valley.

Lumsdale Valley has an industrial past. The 2.5 mile route will take you past historic mill ruins ending up at the stunning Lumsdale Falls.

The waterfall itself flows into a rugged gorge and looks its best after a downpour of rain.

The trail is dog-friendly, but rather steep so it is best furry four-legged friends are kept on leads at all times.

Newstead Abbey

You can discover this superb waterfall just 40-minutes north-east of Derby city centre, in the quaint village of Newstead.

The waterfall is found on the grounds of the historic Newstead Abbey, set in 300 acres of land housing peacocks, swans and other wildlife.

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There is a charge to enter the grounds of Newstead Abbey.

Kingsmill Viaduct

Explore the Kings Mill reservoir and viaduct just outside the market town of Mansfield.

It is around 40-minutes north-east from Derby city centre.

Alongside one of the country’s oldest railway viaducts is a large waterfall, which was created in 1837, when 72 acres of surrounding land flooded.

Bradgate Park

This pretty country park is located just 40-minutes south-east of Derby city centre.

It is set between the villages of Newtown Linford and Cropston.

The 850-acre park is home to a picturesque waterfall and around 550 Red and Fallow deer.

You can also take a walk around memorial wood, explore the runs and marvel at the Old John tower.

Guided tours are available too, so you could make this is a fun and educational trip.