The sun is beaming, it’s the perfect time to plan a day out - and if you’re based in Derby, you’re in luck.
The National Trust has some brilliant spots within easy reach, ideal for making the most of the good weather.
From grand estates and tranquil gardens to peaceful woodland walks, these eight locations are perfect for a sunny escape.
There are plenty more out there, but we’ve picked our favourite eight day trips from Derby that really shine when the sun does.
So, grab your sunglasses and get ready to explore the best of the outdoors - right on your doorstep.
1. Sudbury Hall and the National Trust Museum of Childhood, Derbyshire
Ornately crafted 17th-century country manor also housing toys and interactive displays on childhood. The house and garden in winter at Sudbury Hall and the National Trust Museum of Childhood, Derbyshire. Sudbury Hall, Main Rd, Sudbury, Ashbourne DE6 5HT Photo: Robert Morris
2. Calke Abbey
With peeling paintwork and overgrown courtyards, Calke Abbey tells the story of the dramatic decline of a country house estate. The house and stables are little restored, with many abandoned areas vividly portraying a period in the 20th century when numerous country houses did not survive to tell their story. Calke Abbey may look somewhat neglected compared to the likes of Chatsworth, but the grand country house near Ticknall provides a fascinating insight into the lives of some of Derbyshire’s wealthiest figures. There is a 600-acre historic parkland with National Nature Reserves, ancient oaks including 1,200-year-old ‘Old Man of Calke’, deer park and secluded ponds. Photo: cc-by-sa/2.0 - © Alan Murray-Rust - geograph.org.uk/p/5860693
3. Hardwick Hall
An Elizabethan masterpiece. Doe Lea, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S44 5QJ Photo: Simon Hulme
4. Kedleston Hall, Near Quarndon, Derby, Derbyshire
Take a trip back in time to the 1760s at this spectacular neo-classical mansion framed by historic parkland. Designed for lavish entertaining and displaying an extensive collection of paintings, sculpture and original furnishings, Kedleston is a stunning example of the work of architect Robert Adam. The Hall was used as a key location for 'The Duchess', the Hollywood blockbuster starring Keira Knightley. Photo: Annapurna Mellor