Minninglow

Stone circles and Bronze Age burial mounds crown this windswept hillside, making Minninglow one of the Peak District's most atmospheric picnic spots. You'll climb through farmland to reach the summit, where ancient stones mark burial chambers dating back 4,000 years - though the views across the White Peak probably steal more attention than the archaeology.

Families with older children will manage the walk fine, but it's properly exposed up there when the weather turns. The site itself is free to explore, and you can wander freely among the weathered limestone slabs that once formed elaborate burial chambers.

History enthusiasts get the most from a visit here - there's something quite moving about eating your sandwiches where Bronze Age people once conducted their most sacred rituals. The panoramic views stretch across typical Peak District farmland towards Matlock, making it well worth the climb even if ancient monuments aren't your thing.

Allow a couple of hours including the walk from wherever you park. Best avoided on windy days unless you fancy your picnic taking flight. From holiday parks like Hoe Grange or Newhaven, both just two miles away, it makes a lovely morning expedition before exploring the market towns and caverns that draw most visitors to this corner of Derbyshire.