Calling all culture fans!

You might know Derbyshire for its stunning countryside, wonderful walks and famous historic houses, however, Derbyshire’s also home to some of the UK’s most fantastic cultural attractions, events and creations – so much so in fact, that Derbyshire’s even got its own Cultural Prospectus!

So if you’re a fan of culture, what can we recommend?

Derwent Valley Mills (www.derwentvalleymills.org) should certainly be on your ‘to do’ list! Registered as a World Heritage site in 2001, it’s the birthplace of the factory system and stretching 15 miles down the river valley from Matlock Bath to Derby it contains a fascinating series of historic mill complexes, including some of the world's first 'modern' factories.

If you’re looking for a fun-packed family time at then there’s no better time than each year during the October half-term school break. This nine day period is crammed with over 100 activities which allow people to enjoy the World Heritage Site in unusual, entertaining and informative ways so if you’re visiting Oaklands in October, it’s certainly worth a trip!

If you’re after tailoring a trip just for you, then why not take your pick of the best of Derbyshire by checking out the Made in Derbyshire website (www.madeinderbyshire.org)? Made in Derbyshire illustrates the wonderful diversity of Derbyshire and profiles some really interesting artists, inspiring exhibits and creative culture. Here you’ll find that the Arts Derbyshire-supported initiative hosts a wealth of information on independent artists as well as organised cultural events.

If you’re staying with us in September, then there are two key cultural events that you’ll not want to miss – the Wirksworth Arts Festival (www.wirksworthfestival.co.uk) and the Melbourne Festival of the Creative and Performing Arts (http://melbournefestival.co.uk). Both festivals are long standing events that attract thousands of visitors to the county each September and enable even the most local of artists to exhibit their work alongside award winning professionals.  

And we wouldn’t want to forget Derby’s historic and attractive Cathedral Quarter that houses the Derby Museum and Art Gallery (www.derbymuseums.org/museumartgallery) – both the Cathedral Quarter and the Museum & Art Gallery are certainly worth a visit. Our suggestions are just the tip of Derbyshire’s cultural iceberg, so why not log on to www.visitpeakdistrict.com for some more ideas – or ask us when you book your stay at Oaklands?