Tom Fearn memorial

Standing quietly in the countryside near Ashbourne, this simple stone memorial marks the spot where Tom Fearn met his end - though the exact circumstances remain something of a local mystery. The weathered inscription tells part of the story, but locals in nearby pubs will happily fill in the gaps with tales that may or may not be entirely accurate.

History enthusiasts and those with a taste for rural folklore will find this worth a brief detour. The memorial itself takes all of five minutes to examine, but it's the sort of place that gets you thinking about the countless untold stories scattered across the Derbyshire countryside.

Best approached as part of a longer walk rather than a destination in itself. The surrounding footpaths offer proper Peak District views, and you're only a short drive from Carsington Water if you fancy making a day of it. Families staying at nearby holiday parks like Callow Top or Sandybrook Lodges could easily combine this with a ramble, though don't expect it to hold the children's attention for long.

Free to visit, naturally, and accessible year-round. Just don't expect any facilities or interpretation boards - this is rural Derbyshire at its most understated.