What's in the local area
Without having to drive or catch a bus....
Smith Hall Meadow is surrounded by walking routes, from easy strolls to more strenuous hikes. There are also a number of cycle routes including a 'non-main road' route into Ashbourne.
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Carsington Water can be reached on foot, cycle or car. It offers walking and cycling as well as the opportunity to relax at the cafes, picnic or buy an ice cream and take in the bird life. There is a playground for younger children and water sports activities for the more adventurous.
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In Hulland Ward there is a farm shop selling breads, fruit and veg and the usual local produce as well as offering pre-cooked take out food and afternoon teas.
Attached to the petrol station, there is a local shop for all essential provisions and further along the road there is a gift and flower shop (which also does good coffee). Within a short walk of Smith Hall Meadow is the first of two pubs, The Black Horse, The Nags Head is further down the road in the village itself. Both serve good food.
A short drive away...
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The White Peak, so called because of its limestone uplands and rolling dales, offers many walking routes and cycle paths.
There are a number of trails that have been created from the old railway lines, that now provide interesting, easy and safe walking or cycling paths, that boast glimpses of Derbyshires historic past. These include the Tissington Trail, High Peak Trail and Monsal Trail. All have cycle hire.
From the stepping stones at Dove Dale to swimming in the River Lantkill at Youlgreave, where ever you choose to go there is something of interest to capture your imagination.
If you'd prefer beautiful houses and grounds then look no further. Ilam Hall, Kedleston Hall, Haddon and Hardwick Hall are all worth a visit. Chatsworth House boasts a grand house to walk round, but also beautiful gardens, parkland, a farmyard and adventure playground.
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If it is history you want, then there are the Mills near Mat lock, which are thought to be were the industrial revolution began. While you are there take a cable car ride to the Heights of Abraham, for what has to be the most Spectacular view over the Derbsyshire Dales.
There are many interesting towns and villages close by to while away a few hours exploring their shops, cafes and historic pasts.
A little further afield,,,
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The Dark Peak is known for its more rugged gritstone landscape and moorland.
Here there is more adventurous hiking, It is where the Pennine Way begins (or ends) in Edale and where the ''Shivering Mountain' (Mam Tor) is found.
The caves in Castleton, provide adventure of a different kind, exploring deep underground by foot or by boat. Blue John, a mineral only found in this area of the world, is mined from these caves.
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For those who want more relaxing activities, the Dark Peak is home to a number of towns and villages that are of historic importance, such as Eyam, 'The Plague village' and Peak Forest, once the 'The Gretna Green of England' .
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The Longshaw Estate and Padley Gorge offer spectacular walks and views of the Peak District, ancient woods, parkland and moorland.