Curbar Playing Field

Curbar Playing Field sits on the edge of the Peak District proper, just outside Bakewell - it's grassland that's been left to do its own thing, which means wildflowers in spring and a proper haven for butterflies and birds if you know when to look. The field itself is fairly open, nothing dramatic, but that's rather the point. You're not here for a view or a walk that'll knacker you out; you're here to slow down and actually notice what's happening in the undergrowth.

Nature enthusiasts will get the most from this one, particularly if you're into butterflies or you've dragged the family along hoping to spot something with wings. Kids will manage it for maybe an hour before they start asking if you can go back for chips, but that's fine - it's not designed as an afternoon activity. The playing field aspect means there's proper access and you won't feel like you're trespassing.

It's free to visit, no faffing about with tickets, and you can turn up whenever you fancy, though early mornings in late spring tend to be when things are actually happening rather than just sleeping in the grass. Allow 45 minutes to an hour if you're actually paying attention. If you're based at any of the nearby campsites - Dale Farm, Derbyshire Hills, or Greenhills - it's a decent little detour between proper walks. It works better as a pause point than a destination in itself, but sometimes that's exactly what you need.