Cumberland Cavern

Finding yourself in the limestone heart of Derbyshire, this natural cave system offers a proper underground adventure just outside Matlock. The cavern stretches deep into the hillside, with impressive rock formations and narrow passages that'll have you ducking and weaving through millions of years of geological history.

Families with older children will get the most from this one - the cave isn't suitable for pushchairs and requires a bit of scrambling in places. Anyone claustrophobic might want to give it a miss, but for those comfortable in tight spaces, it's a cracking alternative to the more touristy caves in the area.

Without confirmed opening details, it's worth checking locally before making the journey. The Peak District has plenty of cave systems, and this one sits well off the beaten track compared to the show caves near Castleton.

Staying at Darwin Forest or one of the sites around Carsington Water puts you in prime position for exploring Derbyshire's underground world. The location works brilliantly as part of a walking holiday too - the surrounding countryside is classic Peak District territory with proper hiking trails spreading out in all directions from Matlock.