The Kings Stone

Standing stones don't come much more mysterious than this solitary sentinel perched on the moors above Matlock. The Kings Stone rises from the Peak District landscape like a weathered finger pointing skyward, its origins lost to time and local legend.

Geologists reckon it's a natural limestone pillar, carved by wind and rain over countless centuries. The locals prefer more colourful explanations - some say it marks where a Saxon king fell in battle, others that it's a druid monument. Take your pick.

Walkers will appreciate the decent trek required to reach it, though the paths can be muddy after rain. It's not exactly Stonehenge, but there's something properly atmospheric about finding this lone monolith on the open moor. Kids might lose interest quickly unless they're the type who enjoy scrambling over rocks.

The views across the Derwent Valley are the real draw here. On a clear day you can see for miles, with Matlock Bath glinting in the distance below. Budget an hour for the round trip from the nearest parking, longer if you fancy exploring the surrounding moorland.

Perfect for stretching your legs if you're staying at Darwin Forest or one of the other nearby holiday parks. It's free to visit whenever you fancy, though I'd avoid it in thick fog - you could walk straight past without spotting it.