Coach travel to Derby

Owned by the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, this beautiful estate is the ‘Palace of the Peak’. There’s 4,000 years of art and 30 grand rooms to discover in this exquisite house that has been inhabited by 16 generations of the Cavendish family. Stroll through the 105-acre garden which has been blooming for 450 years, or go off the beaten track inside the 1,000-acre farmland.

There is a rich calendar of events so check to see what is on before you pay a visit. There are also various restaurants and tea shops to sample a traditional afternoon tea. Still hungry? Pick up something to take home at their award-winning farm produce shop.

With a range of stores, coffee shops, eateries and bars there’s lots to keep you occupied.

The Cathedral Quarter boasts historical hotspots aplenty. Get lost in the magic of these medieval lanes and discover fascinating and quirky retailers. Feeling brave? Take part in the Ghost Walk, while history buffs should investigate elegant Derby Cathedral.

The city’s creative heart is also home to indie cinema Quad, as well as leading dance house, Déda. 

Over 25 million shopaholics per year are attracted to Intu Derby, home to a wide range of designer and high street brands. With over 160 stores, your favourite brands and new distinctive boutiques are waiting to be discovered.

You can then rest your heavy bag-leaden arms by having a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants. Choose from a selection of cuisines, ranging from Italian to Thai.

Even if you’d rather skip shopping altogether, the latest films can be seen at the Showcase Cinema de Lux screens.

Explore the exquisite craftsmanship of Royal Crown Derby with a factory tour. Watch how their iconic English Fine Bone China is created. Using real documents and surviving letters, the fascinating story of Derby and its inhabitants is brought to life in their onsite museum.

There’s even a rare 1700 clock that features Derby biscuit porcelain figures, proving that it’s always time for tea.

If you’re a shopaholic then be sure to visit the Cathedral Quarter. Hidden amongst the old lanes are entrances to independent boutiques and a vast selection of high street stores.

When you fancy a bite to eat, head to Jack Rabbits Kitchen where you can consume local food and international dishes at affordable prices.

Historic Derby is rich in well-preserved architecture and a great base to investigate the nearby Peak District. Easily viewed via walking tour, one of the tallest attractions on a visitor’s to-do list is the impressive 212-foot tower of Derby Cathedral.

Nearby sights include Bolsover Castle, a medieval manor house ruins and the glorious views of the Peak District from the Norman Hilltop Castle.

For curious minds, there’s the city centre Derby Museum, where local art and archaeological treasures can be discovered.

The 207-acre Markeaton Park is the perfect place to relax in after a busy day in the city, with a range of interactive kids activities and hidden gems to uncover, it’s worth a visit. You can soak up the parkland and garden scenery sitting at the café.

• London to Derby