A spectacular ravine, a Hollywood film set and a breathtaking view of Derbyshire: the National Trust’s best days

With the May bank holidays approaching, it could be the perfect time to spend a day alone or with family, taking in the beauty of some of Derbyshire’s famous natural sites.

If you’re a National Trust member chances are you’ve visited them more than once, however, if you’re not now is the time to go explore the great outdoors .

We’ve listed some of the Derbyshire National Trust sites for you to check out, with opening times and prices to see what appeals to you.

Dovedale

Dovedale is a renowned beauty spot with stunning scenery and plenty of walks. A spectacular limestone ravine, home to rare wildlife and wildflowers, impressive rocky outcrops, tranquil woodland and of course the much-loved stepping stones that cross the River Dove.

It is a national nature reserve owned and maintained by the National Trust, with significant woodland, wildflower meadows and impressive limestone rock features throughout the valley, it is certainly not to be missed.

OR: Dovedale car park is at Ilam, near Ashbourne, DE6 2AY

COST: £4.50 for up to 4 hours parking, £6 for more than 4 hours

Hardwick Hall and Gardens

Discover the majestic ruins of the birthplace of Bess of Hardwick, one of the richest and most notable women of Elizabethan England. On a trip to the site, run by English Heritage, you can climb four floors to enjoy spectacular views of the Derbyshire countryside and Hardwick New Hall.

Then, stroll through their famous gardens and soak up the historic atmosphere.

OR: Hardwick Hall, Doe Lea, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S44 5QJ

OPENING TIME: 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday to Sunday (March to September)

COST: Adults – £16, Children aged 5-15 – £8, Family (2 adults, 3 children) £40.00. All prices without Gift Aid.

Calke Abbey

Calke Abbey tells the story of the dramatic decline of a country house estate with peeling paintwork and overgrown courtyards. The house and stables feature many derelict areas, vividly illustrating a period of the 20th century when many country houses did not survive to tell their story.

There’s plenty to do, including nature reserve walks and fun family activities at Squirt’s Stable.

OR: Calke Abbey Calke, DE73 7LE

OPENING TIME: Nature reserve open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., the gardens and stables open from 9.30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and the house is open from 11 a.m. to 4.30 p.m.

COST: Entrance to the whole property costs £10 for adults and £5.50 for children. Entrance to the garden and stables only is £7.00 for adults and £3.50 for children. Entrance to the nature reserve is free.

Kedleston Room

This spectacular neo-classical mansion is surrounded by historic parkland and serves as a key location for The Duchess, the Hollywood blockbuster starring Keira Knightley.

It is a superb example of the work of architect Robert Adam and is still home to the Curzon family, who have lived there since the 12th century.

OR:Kedleston Room Derby, DE22 5JH

OPENING TIME: Park entrance gates open at 9:30 a.m. and close at 4 p.m. daily. The park exit gate closes at 5 p.m. The room is open from Friday to Monday only with last entry at 3:30 p.m.

COST: Entrance to the whole property is £14 for adults and £7 for children, including Gift Aid. Entrance to the grounds is £9 for adults and £4.50 for children.

Sudbury Hall and the Museum of Childhood

Sudbury Hall, the country home of the Lords Vernon, offers 17th century craftsmanship with the grandeur of the grand staircase and long gallery.

Meanwhile, the Museum of Childhood is a delight for all ages, exploring childhoods of yesteryear.

OR : Sudbury Room Main Road, Sudbury, Ashbourne, Derbyshire, DE6 5HT

OPENING TIME : Currently only open on weekends (and most school holidays) from May 7th. The room will be open later in 2022. You will need to book your visit, even if you are a member.

COST: Whole property: Adults – £11, Children – £5.50, Family – £27.50.

Duffield Castle

In 1266 King Henry III destroyed one of the largest medieval castles in England. Today all that remains of Duffield Castle are the foundations, the view and its stories.

The small one hectare site, near derby, is now bounded on all sides by dwellings and roads, but it is still a place to enjoy, relax and soak up history. Highly recommend doing your research before visiting this one as not much remains of the castle itself.

OR: Duffield Castle, Milford Road, Duffield, Derbyshire, DE56 4DW

OPENING TIME: Monday-Sunday 24 hours.

COST: Free