Our great city of Derby, the gateway to the Peaks is surrounded by stunning countryside, hidden hamlets, quaint villages and beautiful spaces.
A must-visit place to put your list to check out this year is Wirksworth, a charming market town close to Derby.
The small town with a big heart has the unique charm of being unassuming yet very cool - it has been recognised as the UK's top location to live in 2025 and no doubt this year too.
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.
9. Wirksworth
Cobbled streets and hidden courtyards will make you feel as if you are stepping back in time. | Visit Peak District & Derbyshire
10. Wirksworth StarDsic
The jaw-dropping Wirksworth StarDisc is a 21st century stone circle star chart. It sits above the town and illuminates the constellations at night. | Visit Peak District & Derbyshire
11. Wirksworth
Often described as the 'hidden gem of the Peak', Wirksworth has an incredible heritage and boasts buildings that feel as if they are old as time itself. | Visit Peak District & Derbyshire
12. Wirksworth
The traditional high street has some great independent, family-run businesses. | Visit Peak District & Derbyshire