The natural beauty of New Mills is a key draw. The town sits pretty in an area standing high above The Torrs, a natural rocky gorge, where the River Goyt and River Sett come together. There's a good offering of independent shops and eateries to explore on a day-trip in the area too.placeholder image
The natural beauty of New Mills is a key draw. The town sits pretty in an area standing high above The Torrs, a natural rocky gorge, where the River Goyt and River Sett come together. There's a good offering of independent shops and eateries to explore on a day-trip in the area too. | Visit Peak District & Derbyshire

Quietly magnificent Derbyshire market towns and villages well worth a visit in 2026

Ria Ghei
By Ria Ghei

Senior Reporter

Published 15th Dec 2025, 05:49 GMT

Must-visit locations across the region are perfect to explore this winter and beyond.

When planning days out or mini staycations, it is easy to go for popular tourist hotspots such as the Cotswolds.

However our great county of Derbyshire is filled with great spaces that are just begging to be explored - many of which offer an even more enjoyable day out.

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Plus there is none of that pesky travel that would usually see you make the three hour trek from Derby to the southern part of the country.

Derbyshire quietly boasts quiet market towns and sleepy villages that are incredible to visit this winter and beyond. We can imagine leisurely strolls over the cobblestone streets of Ashbourne, either this December, or during early 2026 as you start a fresh year with fresh possibilities.

Perhaps you could be charmed by the tiny town of Alfreton and spend an afternoon exploring the town’s folklore links to the Great King Alfred?

Here’s our gallery of top Derbyshire places to visit this winter.

Be charmed by gorgeous gabled houses and neat red-bricked cottages in Sudbury. All Saints is an historic 14th century church with a very special royal gift, a window which was a gift from Queen Victoria. Another must-visit place is the Children's Country House. It was crowned Visitor Attraction of the Year at the 2024 Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards, making it ideal to visit with the family over the autumn months.

5. Sudbury

Be charmed by gorgeous gabled houses and neat red-bricked cottages in Sudbury. All Saints is an historic 14th century church with a very special royal gift, a window which was a gift from Queen Victoria. Another must-visit place is the Children's Country House. It was crowned Visitor Attraction of the Year at the 2024 Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards, making it ideal to visit with the family over the autumn months. | Google

This small market town with a big heart has many winning features, including a heritage transport museum at Midland Railway Butterley. There is also a compact traditional outdoor market which has a fascinating history. It was established by Henry III by royal decree in 1250, making the Charter Market is one of the oldest in Derbyshire.

6. Ripley

This small market town with a big heart has many winning features, including a heritage transport museum at Midland Railway Butterley. There is also a compact traditional outdoor market which has a fascinating history. It was established by Henry III by royal decree in 1250, making the Charter Market is one of the oldest in Derbyshire. | Midland Railway

From the highly acclaimed Heanor Antique Centre stocking 200 independent antique dealers, to local florists and generations-old butchers on the high street, there are plenty of places to explore in Heanor. Do the visit Heanor Memorial Park which includes a bandstand too.

7. Heanor

From the highly acclaimed Heanor Antique Centre stocking 200 independent antique dealers, to local florists and generations-old butchers on the high street, there are plenty of places to explore in Heanor. Do the visit Heanor Memorial Park which includes a bandstand too. | Google

Tucked away Derbyshire's pretty Amber Valley, this picturesque market town has plenty to offer including high street stores, independent locals and a traditional indoor market hall. A big draw is Alfreton House, a cheerful tea room that hosts afternoon tea for just £12 per person.

8. Alfreton

Tucked away Derbyshire's pretty Amber Valley, this picturesque market town has plenty to offer including high street stores, independent locals and a traditional indoor market hall. A big draw is Alfreton House, a cheerful tea room that hosts afternoon tea for just £12 per person. | Google

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