"Derbyshire - The Amber Valley" a Derbyshire Travel Page by LizD

Included on these pages are some of the things to see and places to visit in and around my local area of Ripley in the Amber Valley.

As my page title is Derbyshire, I also mention some more famous towns to visit but as these are available on the travel map under their own name, I will review them there.

Tips on this page I have reserved for the smaller towns, and the activities worth seeing there.

The scenery here is breathtaking with some of the best valleys,hillsides and woodlands, to be seen anywhere in England. The main river is the Derwent which meanders through the countryside and towns. In many places it allows for very picturesque picnic spots.

It is dotted with small quaint towns and villages where, in the local pubs, many a good lunch can be found and often ale brewed by the local micro breweries.

There are a lot of famous places of interest nearby include, Bakewell, famous for its pudding, Chesterfield with its crooked spire, Matlock and Matlock Bath, with the Heights of Abraham, and Gullivers Kingdom with entertainment for the kids, also a favourite for bikers on a Sunday.
Crich Tram Museum, The Midland Railway with its steam trains, and The American Adventure theme park.

.There is shopping in the City of Derby, and both Nottingham and Meadowhall in Sheffield are only half an hour by car. There are also mill shops and retail parks and
a good selection of local retailers in the smaller towns.

If you like stately homes, we have Chatsworth with its magnificent house and gardens, (also visit the GardenCentre and farm shops), Hardwick Hall, Bolsover Castle, and Kedleston Hall to name
but a few. Many hold open air concerts in the summer.

Dovedale is only 20 miles away, the walk following the river is lovely. Ashbourne is a lovely town to visit near by.

In our local area, visit Darley Park, Markeaton Park, Belper and its River garden, Carsington Water for water sports, Cromford Canal for an afternoon stroll. Heage windmill or Denby Pottery

Lookout for the Venetian lights at Matlock Bath (September to October) Ripley Fun Fair,in the autumn. Local farmers markets, and continental markets

We have lived in the area now for 2 years, and each weekend we go exploring andare never disappointed.
Its like being on holiday every weekend and we feel so lucky to be here......