Artists Corner

Tucked into the woodland near Matlock, this little forest pocket gets its name from the creative souls who've long found inspiration among its trees. Artists Corner offers proper peace and quiet - just you, the canopy overhead, and the odd squirrel for company. The paths wind through mixed woodland where light filters through in those lovely dappled patterns that make you understand why painters pack their easels for spots like this.

Walkers looking for gentle terrain will find it just right, though families with very young children might struggle with some of the rougher ground underfoot. It's free to wander, as far as I can tell, and you could easily spend an hour or two here without getting restless. Early morning visits reward you with the best light and fewer people.

Staying at one of the holiday parks dotted around this part of Derbyshire makes Artists Corner an easy addition to your itinerary. Darwin Forest sits closest at just over three miles away, while Packhorse Farm offers the shortest hop at barely over two miles. The forest works well as a gentle warm-up before tackling some of the Peak District's more demanding walks, or simply as a quiet retreat when you've had enough of the crowds elsewhere.