As summer approaches Derbyshire County Council are offering a wide range of events at our countryside sites across the county. And looking a bit further ahead September sees the 21st Derbyshire Woodland Festival – an ever-popular weekend at Elvaston Castle Country Park.
The events and workshops are held at our country parks, industrial heritage sites and canal-side venues, designed to appeal to all the family with some offering the chance to learn new skills.
The country parks at Elvaston Castle and Shipley along with the High Peak Trail, Cromford canal and Tapton Lock on the Chesterfield Canal have a regular programme of events and self-led trails suitable for all ages. Always popular are the open days at Leawood Pumphouse and Middleton Top Engine House on the High Peak trail which attract people interested in the rich industrial heritage of the area. Night sky explorations, park runs, canal trips, themed picnics and cycle hire are just some of the other attractions along with on-site cafés and gift shops. Any event charges are always very modest to help keep things affordable.
Derbyshire Woodland Festival celebrates traditional and contemporary woodland crafts and activities and entertainment for the whole family. Visitors can watch demonstrators and performers showcase their skills or perhaps have a go themselves. There will be storytelling, art, woodcarving, unique gifts, delicious food, lots of stalls, and much more besides all in a beautiful setting.
Alongside events, walking, picnicking, cycling, canal trips, horse riding and fishing are amongst other possible ways to enjoy the countryside sites.
Councillor Carolyn Renwick, the Cabinet Member for Infrastructure and Environment, said:
“The pandemic showed how important open spaces and fresh air are for our mental and physical wellbeing so it’s great to be able to offer a full programme of events again and welcome people back to the Derbyshire countryside.
“We’ve worked hard to organise a programme of events to suit all ages, but I would also encourage people just to enjoy being outdoors whether that be walking, cycling, having a coffee, or picnicking.
“And I’m particularly looking forward to the Woodland Festival – it’s a highlight on our events calendar.”
The County Council look after more than 120 countryside sites ranging from local greenspace to country parks, woodland and national trails. Some of the sites have Tramper scooters for hire so people with more limited mobility can get out and about in the countryside.
