Further Afield
Exploring Derbyshire
Belper and our cottages are in the heart of the Derwent Valley World Heritage Site and a fabulous base to explore its treasures and those of the Peak District. A 5 minute walk away from the train station and bus station, our cottages are a great place to start your stress-free explorations of Derbyshire. Below are a few of the places to visit within easy reach of Belper for those wanting to explore for a week or more. Click on the links to the left to explore the things you can easily get to from Frith Cottage and Strutt Cottage.
Hop on a bus to Cromford and explore the Arkwright Mills, visit the charecterful Scarthin Books, one of the finest independent book retailers in the country or visit Matlock Bath on a Sunday and see the hundreds of motorcyclists that line the promenade and marvel at the high limestone cliffs that made it famous. Get a bus to Bakewell and enjoy one of its famous puddings and a cup of tea in one of the tea shops. Visit Chatsworth House, seat of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire or Haddon Hall, where the bus will drop you just outside its gates.
Of course there are endless walks both in the Derwent Valley and starting on your doorstep at Strutt Cottage or in the Peak District, rightly famous for the endless miles of paths and bridleways from the easy to the challenging. Why not stay with us and explore?
Below are listed a few of the options open to guests at Frith and Strutt Cottages.
Heage Windmill
Very close by, just 3 or so miles away, is Heage Windmill. Built in the late 18th century this magnificent building has fantastic views and great visitor facilities and some very committed guides. Restoration began in the 1970s but it was in the 1990s that the restoration really got underway and ensured its future survival. Excellent flour milled on-site is available to buy too. We use it at home occasionally! Visit the website to get their opening hours.
The Peak District & Derbyshire Dales...
If you fancy a days great walking or just mooching about a quaint town then the Peak District has got it all. Just minutes down the road, there is a whole host of activities that should satisfy everyone from the ardent adventurer to the gentlest shopper. High rugged moors, craggy climbs and gentle walks and tea and a genuine Bakewell pudding consumed in town itself. Its got it all. Click on the link below and begin planning your explorations.
Within an Hour...
There is a whole host of things to do and see in the area. From exploring the ramparts at Bolsover Castle, to delving into ancient cave archaeology and rock-art at Creswell Crags in the north-east corner of the county. To visiting Elvaston Castle Park and gardens and the National Trust's Calke Abbey in South Derbyshire.
Haddon Hall
Probably the finest, most original Great House in the UK with an amazing and epic historical feel. Still in private hands, the Haddon Estate of Lord Edward Manners is a must see on anyone's list of things to see in Derbyshire. House and gardens included in the price and the staff at the estate are super friendly and helpful.
The gardens are terraced, fragrant and simply beautiful. Well worth a visit.
I'll let the photos speak for themselves....
Hardwick Hall
Hardwick Hall, a National Trust property, formely owned by the Devonshire family of Chatsworth House is situated in the North East of the County and is just a short drive away. Take in Hardwick and nearby Renishaw Hall and gardens (also home to one of England's oldest revival vineyards!).
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hardwick/
Chatsworth House
No visit to this part of the East Midlands let alone Derbyshire is complete without a visit to what is arguably the jewel in the crown of Derbyshire tourism (apart from Strutt Cottage of course!), Chatsworth House. Home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire who play an important role in the day-to-day running of the house and estate; even regularly greeting guests. Well worth a visit and easy to get to by bus from Belper.
Vineyard and Wine Tasting Tours in the Amber Valley
Our amazing family business is just 8 miles form our two Belper cottages. Here, you can take a scheduled vineyard tour and a wine tasting with your host Barry as the guide. Arrive at The Little Vineyard and enjoy a tour and tasting onsite and you can order on of our superb locally sourced picnic or cream tea boxes. You can enjoy your food and wine in our beautiful Derbyshire orchard, or even under the cover of our amazing Orchard Pavilion, with expansive views of the Amber Valley.
