Anchor Church Caves

The caves themselves are small - just three chambers carved into the sandstone cliff above the River Derwent - but they've got proper history behind them. Anchor Church Caves are thought to date back to medieval times, possibly earlier, when hermits or monks used them as a refuge. You won't find much signage or visitor facilities here, which is either refreshing or slightly annoying depending on your temperament.

The walk to reach them is the main event. From the car park, you'll head down through woodland alongside the river, and the caves emerge suddenly from the rockface - that moment of spotting them is genuinely satisfying. Inside, the chambers are tight and atmospheric rather than vast, but kids find them thrilling because you can actually clamber around in them without feeling like you're in a museum.

Allow an hour for the whole thing, including poking about and taking photos. It's free to visit, and there's no charge for entry or anything silly like that. You'll want sturdy shoes - the ground gets muddy and the final approach is a bit of a scramble.

It works well as part of a wider walk along the Derwent Valley, especially if you're staying at Hill Farm Camping or Broadleaves just up the road. History enthusiasts will appreciate the medieval angle, but honestly, it's the riverside setting and the adventure of finding the caves that makes it worth the trip. Not a day-long attraction - more of a two-hour diversion that punches above its weight.