The must-visit historic market town with thriving community spirit in Derbyshire

Derby, the gateway to the Peaks is surrounded by pretty countryside, hidden hamlets, quaint villages and beautiful spaces.

A must-visit place to put your list to check out this year is Wirksworth. This charming market town is just 15 miles or a 30 minute drive away from Derby.

The small town with a big heart has the unique charm of being unassuming yet very cool - it was named one of the UK's top places to live last year.

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Wirksworth was praised for its community spirit, independent stores and excellent schools by experts at The Sunday Times.

They analysed various factors including house prices, schools, air quality, transport, broadband speeds, culture, green spaces and the health of the high street to compile a definitive list.

Its charming streets, lined with independent shops, cosy cafés, and artist studios, create an atmosphere that’s both welcoming and creatively inspiring.

Wirksworth boasts a wonderful, close-knit community spirit that offers a slower pace of life without sacrificing a bustling, buzzy vibe.

An unmissable location is StarDisc an intriguing art installation and stargazing site.

Since opening in 2011 the location has welcomed thousands of visitors each year who flock for the views.

The installation features a stone circle measuring 12m across with star charts engraved into black granite stone along with the names of constellations visible from the Northern hemisphere.

Beyond its charming streets, Wirksworth boasts an enviable location, surrounded by the breath-taking beauty of the Peak District National Park.

Here are some photos celebrating Wirksworth and its beautiful surrounding countryside.