Local Treasures
Ripley, with its easy access to major roads is a most convenient centre for surrounding places of interest and for some of the finest scenery in England – the hills, dales and high places of the Peak District. The proximity of Derby (10 miles), Nottingham (14 miles) and Sheffield (25 miles) is a magnet to those who love the attractions of the cities.
Midland Railway - Butterley
The nearest place of leisure interest is within Ripley’s boundaries – the Midland Railway - Butterley.
A great day out for all of the family with lots to see and do. Heritage train rides transport you to a bygone era. Explore two railway museums, the demonstration signal box, a Victorian railwayman’s church and much more. Plus there are narrow gauge, miniature and model railways, shops, buffets, children’s playground and country park. Free parking.
Heage Windmill
Heage Windmill in Derbyshire is the only six-sailed stone tower windmill in England.
The Derbyshire attraction is a Grade II listed building, sited on a hill providing spectacular views towards the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site. It was restored to working order in 2002 and looks as splendid as when first built in 1797. Visitors can go on tours with guides normally in costume. There is also an Interpretation Centre and a shop where can buy flour that is milled here.
Crich Tramway Village
Lovers of our transport heritage need only go on to the National Tramway Museum at Crich.
Be transported back in time on their vintage trams. Soak up the atmosphere in their period street with a visit to the shops and take refreshments in the tearooms. The kids can have a play on the adventure playground and take part in a nature trail. There's lots to do for all the family at Crich Tramway Village.
Crich Stand
Imaginatively developed beneath the beetling limestone cliff surmounted by Crich Stand, a lighthouse monument to the Sherwood Foresters who died in the Great War.
It can be seen for miles around when its revolving beam is lit on the anniversaries of their battles. It is in this area where the TV series ‘Peak Practice’ was filmed and the success of the series has attracted many visitors to the area.
Chatsworth House
Who hasn't heard of the beautiful Chatsworth House?
Chatsworth is home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, and has been passed down through 16 generations of the Cavendish family.
Situated in the picturesque Peak District in the village of Baslow (near Bakewell), it's a statley home you must visit.
You can walk around the vast surroundings where there are lots of walking routes, or you can visit the Chatsworth House itself and walk round the immaculate gardens. Stop off for something to eat in their restaurant, treat yourself to something from the shop or take the kids to the Adventure Playground and Farm - there's lots to do.
There's also Chatsworth Farm Shop just up the road and in the other direction, there's Chatsworth Garden Centre.
Peak District
With the enduring glory of the county and all of it is within an hour’s reach of Ripley, is the Peak District.
Many feet now trample the stepping stones of Dovedale, the heights of Kinder Scout, the more accessible beauties of Monsal Dale, the Manifold Valley and Beresford Dale.
The 542 square miles of the Peak District National Park lie largely within the county. Picturesque towns and villages abound; from prehistoric remains to the early workings of the Industrial Revolution, from potholes to sheer cliffs, it is infinite in its variety.