Sitwell Arms

Fan of classic cars? Vintage Adventure Tours (30 minutes' drive), a local outfit with a fleet of ace older autos, can sort you with car tours through the Peak District. For more transport-related nostalgia, home in on the National Tramway Museum (15 minutes), where over 60 vehicles from days gone by have been lovingly restored for guests. When you're not whizzing through the countryside, stop to take a breather at Press Manor Fishing Lakes (15 minutes), a peaceful fishery that can also supply lessons for those yet to try their hand at angling. Alternatively, take a lazy stroll through Matlock (15 minutes) to take in its simple pleasures, or take some time to simply sit and stare at the lovely Lumsdale Falls (15 minutes). Coming with kids? Keep the prospect of a trip to Alton Towers (an hour) up your sleeve to ensure best behaviour throughout your stay. Princelings and princesses may also appreciate a lordly look-around at Bolsover Castle (25 minutes), a Stuart-era mansion. Attractions in the same vein include Chatsworth House (30 minutes) and Haddon Hall (35 minutes).