When it comes to planning day dates with my husband (because as parents, date nights strictly happen at home nowadays) getting outdoors is always highest on our priorities list. It's a good job really as we're both really outdoorsy people. Here's a list of day dates in Derbyshire, that will be perfect for you if you're an outdoorsy couple like us.

[Photo by Robert Bye on Unsplash]
10 Day Dates in Derbyshire
1. Poole's Cavern
Poole's Cavern is a 2 million year old natural limestone cave on the edge of Buxton in the high peak or Derbyshire. You can explore what's described as 'the finest underground scenery in the UK' with an expert guide who will chaperone you through the vast, beautifully illuminated rock sculptures. You could even combine your visit to Poole's Cavern with a walk to Grin Low Viewpoint and lunch at the Cavern Cafe.
2. Heights of Abraham
Take a spectacular cable car flight to the 60-acre Heights of Abraham estate. Once at the top you have the choice of three eateries, the Vista Restaurant, Terrace Cafe or The Tavern. Failing that there are plenty of secluded locations which would be perfect for a home made picnic.
3. Dovedale stepping stones
Dovedale is located right in the heart of the Peak District in Derbyshire and is famous for its stepping stones crossing the river Dove. You can make the stunning walk along the river Dove as long or as short as you want to. I'd really recommend packing a picnic and walking from Dovedale stepping stones up to Thors cave. It's a full day out, but one which on a clear day is perfect for Derbyshire dating.

[Chatsworth House: Photo by Tom Podmore on Unsplash]
4. Chatsworth House
Chatsworth House is a stately home located a couple of miles North of Bakewell (home of course to the the infamous Bakewell tart). The house itself is stunning, but for me it's the views from the grounds which really appeal to me. The gardens cover 105 acres and are full of historic and modern water features as well as a Victorian rock garden. If you can't escape the kids (I feel you!) there's a great farmyard & playground there which is sure to keep them occupied.
5. Calke Abbey
If like us you're National Trust members a day out to Calke Abbey is a must when planning day dates in Derbyshire. The grade I listed country house boasts amazing architecture, stunning grounds and even a deer park. Even if you're not members, the pricing is really reasonable for what the space has to offer.
6. Go Ape
You'll find one of the more challenging Go Ape sites situated in Buxton. It's one of the highest Go Ape courses across the UK and will definitely give you and your date a thrill. There's zip lines, Tarzan swings and treetop assault courses which will no doubt bring out a bit of friendly competition between you both... Just try and not get too competitive right?

[Stannage Edge: Photo by David Tip on Unsplash]
7. Sett Valley Trail
The Sett Valley Trail is 4km cycle path and bridleway in Derbyshire. It's ideal for a day date on the bikes as it's not too strenuous and passes some beautiful scenes along the river Sett.
8. Kedleston Hall
Kedleston Hall is another National Trust site located in Kedleston, just a few miles north of Derby. The 18th century mansion is set within miles and miles of beautiful parkland. There are various view points from the woodlands which would make stunning picnic spots for your day dates in Derbyshire.
9. Black Rocks
The Black Rocks are a small outcrop of natural gritstone between Cromford and Wirksworth in the Derbyshire Peak District. The area has become renowned for rock climbing with two of the most popular climbs being the Hard Grit and the Gaia. If climbing is your thing, Black Rocks should definitely be on your list for Derbyshire dating.

[Monsal Dale: Photo by Ste Clayton on Unsplash]
10. The Monsal Trail
The Monsal Trail is a cycling, horse riding and walking trail in Derbyshire. The 8.5km trail runs from Buxton to Chee Dale & can be picked up along various entry points. You travel through four different railway tunnels all of which are approximately 400m long. It's such an interesting walk and one that shouldn't be forgotten when looking for day dates in Derbyshire.
Have any of these day dates in Derbyshire peaked (see what I did there) your interest? Are you an outdoorsy type of person?



Hi Claire,
Some great ideas there, thank you.
It's been a while since we've been to Derbyshire. Last time, my wife was on a photography course and me and Harvey (our Labrador) were left to entertain ourselves for the day. We did the Monsal Trail and really enjoyed it (even though I did begin to think that we were never going to reach the other side of some of those tunnels!). Even found a lovely pub to eat at mid-way. Do keep your wits about you - some of the cyclists there are absolute cretins and treat it as a race track.
Oh I know! Haha. The tunnels can be quite daunting can't they! I've never really walked anything like that before / since.
Love all of these ideas Claire! I have never been to Derbyshire, so adding some of these to my travelling list! I would love to go on a date to visit Chatsworth House, only from the picture it looks amazing and the gardens sound like a must-see! Also, Go ape sounds like a fun idea, I don't like height, but for some weird reason, I would love to try a zip line once! x
I've not been before, but my parents rave about it! It's definitely on our to go to list. I was really surprised with Go Ape. I booked it for my hen party as an ice breaker type thing for everybody to get to know one another, and it was brilliant! I was terrified going up, but by the end of it I really enjoyed it! X
I've never been to Derbyshire but I'd love to pop up there for a long weekend this summer!
Rosie
It's gorgeous. There's so much to see and do there. X
I blog about Derbyshire so feel like I know the area pretty well - but you’ve even given me some ideas! Chatsworth House is my absolute fave. Thank you for sharing.
Ahh amazing! That's so lovely to hear. I've not actually been to Chatsworth before, but my parents rave about it. It's definitely on the to go to list! X
I've never been to Derbyshire and I didn't realise how incredible it was! The sights look amazing and there is so much to see and do xx
Oh it's lovely! Somewhere you could definitely spend a week mooching around. So many hidden gems. X
Great post! I have to be honest, I prefer dates to be more sitting down and less outdoor adventures- but I know lots of couples who love outdoor dates! Thank you for sharing x
Thank you for reading! X
These are great date ideas for Derbyshire Claire! x
Lucy | http://www.lucymary.co.uk
Thanks Lucy! X
Oooh some amazing places here! I wish I lived closer to Derbyshire!
Thank you! It's really stunning. You could definitely spend a weeks holiday here. X
Ooo the stepping stones sound fab! We tend to go for walks down the shore, coffee etc but a good walking break would definitely do us some good right now xx