Matlock

Perched on the River Derwent's banks, this proper Derbyshire spa town splits personality between genteel Matlock and its brasher cousin Matlock Bath. The A6 winds through limestone gorges here, making for some cracking driving, while the Heights of Abraham cable car offers panorormal views that'll have you reaching for your camera.

Matlock Bath feels like Blackpool squeezed into a Peak District valley - all amusement arcades and fish and chips, anchored by the Matlock Bath Aquarium where tropical fish swim against a backdrop of Victorian architecture. The Peak District Mining Museum tells the proper story of lead mining that built these communities, while Temple Mine gives you a taste of going underground yourself.

Wander the Derwent Gardens on a sunny afternoon, then tackle the steep climb up Masson Hill for views across the valley. Black Rocks provides some of the area's best rock climbing, though it's equally good for a Sunday stroll. The Lovers' Walks nature reserve offers gentler terrain through woodland, perfect after a heavy pub lunch.

Cromford station puts you on the heritage railway line, while nearby caves like Devonshire Cavern and Cumberland Cavern showcase the limestone landscape that defines this corner of Derbyshire. Gulliver's Kingdom keeps the kids happy with its theme park thrills set against the dramatic gorge backdrop.

The M1 junction 28 gets you here in under an hour from most Midlands cities, though the A6 approach through Bakewell shows off more of the Peak District scenery. Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks - from traditional camping at Yew Tree Farm to glamping pods at Slate House Farm - puts you right in the thick of the Peak District, with Chatsworth House and Haddon Hall just down the road.