Ashbourne

Royal Shrovetide Football kicks off here every Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday, turning the entire town into one massive playing field. Ashbourne's annual madness sees hundreds of locals chasing a hand-painted ball through streets, fields and the River Henmore in a tradition dating back centuries.

This proper Peak District market town sits right where Derbyshire meets Staffordshire, though locals will tell you firmly it belongs to Derbyshire. The cobbled marketplace feels properly historic, surrounded by Georgian coaching inns that once served travellers heading into the Peaks. St Oswald's Church dominates the skyline with its soaring spire - worth a peek inside for the medieval tomb sculptures.

Beyond town, you're spoilt for choice. Bunster Hill offers cracking views across Dovedale without the crowds, while Musden Low provides an easier climb with equally rewarding panoramas. The network of ancient woodlands - Ray Wood, Griff Wood, and half a dozen others - creates brilliant walking territory. Each has its own character, from the dense canopy of Dunkirk Wood to the more open glades of Stanton Wood.

Ilam Cross and the Saxon Cross remind you this landscape has been sacred for over a millennium. The River Dove carves through limestone valleys just minutes from the town centre, creating some of England's most photographed countryside.

Ashbourne sits about 13 miles northwest of Derby, easily reached by car via the A515. Regular buses connect to Derby and Buxton. The town makes an excellent base for Peak District exploration - close enough to Dovedale and Tissington Trail for day trips, yet far enough from tourist honey pots to feel authentically local. Stay at one of the nearby holiday parks and you'll have both town amenities and countryside access sorted.