As seen from Fox Cottage window on a clear day! Probably one of the most famous homes in the country, Chatsworth is home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire. It beholds stunning architecture and the gardens are not to be missed – it’s a full day out. Chatsworth has something for the whole family. Its farmyard and playground are ideal for the little ones to explore and enjoy. The house, extensive gardens and the grounds are superb for the older children in us.

They have an array of events throughout the year, including horse trials, country shows, the Christmas market and many more.

Hosting fun and fast rides, Alton Towers could be an ideal day out for you if you like all things theme park! Smaller children can also meet their favourite characters in Cbeebies Land and there’s even several acres of beautiful landscape gardens – a rare treat in a theme park.

Set in the heart of the historic town of Bakewell, the Old House Museum is an original Tudor dwelling.  After nearly 500 hundred years of continuous use, the house was rescued from demolition in the 1950’s.

It contains a wide range of artefacts telling the story of Bakewell and the surrounding Peak District.

Set in a proud position with spectacular views over Derbyshire, Bolsover Castle allows you to explore the lavish rooms of the Little Castle, the ruined terraces and the fountain gardens. This Stuart Mansion was built to impress guests and it is still fulfilling this purpose today. There is an audio guide available if you want to hear all about the history of the Castle and a tearoom onsite for a nice cup of tea.

With a wide range of water sports, cycle hire and fishing, Carsington Water has activities aplenty.  Explore the vast network of paths and trails that circumnavigate Carsington Water – explore on foot or bike.  There is an adventure playground and an array of wildlife to see.  There is also a visitor’s centre and a couple of shops on-site.  Mobility scooters are available to hire as are electric bikes.

Castleton is home to the four ‘show caves’ – essentially four old underground caves that have proved enormously popular due to their fascinating heritage and wonderfully interesting interior.  They are called Peak Cavern (also known lovingly as The Devils Arse), Speedwell Cavern (with an underground boat trip), Treak Cliff and Blue John Cavern.

The site includes a working farmyard with animal handling and milking demonstrations. In addition, it hosts a woodland playground with a rope park, trampoline, slides, water and sand play.

There are also special activities during school holidays.

Set in a dramatic location, the Crich Tramway Village is a great day out for all the family and dogs are welcome too!  You can explore by riding the trams, visit the exhibitions and step back in time along the recreated period street.  It’s easy to get lost in the ‘days gone by’ here.  There is also an indoor and outdoor play area for the little ones to enjoy.  There are a range of place to eat and drink, including the Red Lion pub serving cask ales.

There are also special activities during school holidays.

The home of Denby pottery, this pottery village has a lot to offer – with factory tours, pottery demonstrations, paint a pot experiences and an outlet shop too.

Gulliver’s Theme Park is perched on the hillside of Matlock Bath.  It features over 60 rides and attractions – ideal for children from toddlers to early teens.  It hosts a wide range of rides and attractions – from the Western World and Pirates Play Area, to the Log Flume and Drop Tower.

''We aim to offer farmyard fun for all ages, all year round, in the fresh air and tranquillity of the countryside! We have a plethora of lovely animals to meet, feed and cuddle, an indoor play barn to have fun in, outdoor play areas including the UK's largest Jumping Pillow* & go-karts to ride around on, a shop to browse and our cosy cafe to visit. Our Riding School is also open all year round and offers lessons for all abilities and hacks for more experienced riders. At weekends and school holidays we offer short pony rides for the little ones too!''

''With 900 years of history, Haddon has much to offer. Brimming with history and stories of old, a remarkable tapestry collection; an early English furniture collection reputed to be the best of its kind in England; and stunning Elizabethan Walled Gardens, recently redesigned by Arne Maynard, Haddon is one of the most significant and oldest heritage destinations in the country, and we welcome friends, families, groups and societies to join us for a memorable and fascinating day out. Our restaurant provides delicious, home cooked, locally sourced seasonal produce meals and comes highly recommended by our visitors across all categories, ages and nationalities.

Our Gatehouse Artisan Pop-up will showcase the work of some of the wonderful artisans and makers who take part in our Mercatum events.  Call in to see them at work and discover the inspiration behind their creativity and invention.''