Derbyshire boasts a wonderful mix of charming venues, stately homes and popular music festivals

With its rich mix of charming venues, stately homes and popular festivals, the county has so much to offer visitors and residents alike.

Last week Hull clinched the much sought-after title of city of culture – and influential names across Derbyshire think their county deserves a similar accolade.

David James, chief executive at Visit Peak District and Derbyshire, said: “Our county boasts a huge variety of cultural attractions and events throughout the year.

“Visitors and local people alike can enjoy a wealth of historic houses from Chatsworth to Calke Abbey, a rich seam of heritage and history at locations such as the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site and fabulous festivals ranging from the internationally-renowned Buxton Festival to colourful and popular Derby Festé.

“Set these within the context of some of Britain’s finest and specially protected landscapes and Derbyshire’s claim to be the UK’s county of culture is hard to contest.”

Cllr Ellie Wilcox, deputy cabinet member for health and communities at Derbyshire County Council, added: “Derbyshire is a county of culture, creativity and innovation.

“The Peak District was the UK’s first national park and the great houses and estates at Chatsworth and Hardwick are some of the finest in the country. It is the birthplace of the industrial revolution with the world’s first factory at Derwent Valley Mills which is a World Heritage Site.

“The National Forest covers part of Derbyshire which is also home to Creswell Crags and Elvaston Castle Country.”