Local Attractions & Explore Derbyshire Discounts

A visit to Great British Car Journey is just the beginning. Located in the heart of the Peak District, we’re surrounded by fantastic attractions, beautiful countryside and plenty of opportunities to turn your trip into a memorable getaway. Whether you’re planning a day out, short break or weekend adventure, there’s something nearby for every kind of visitor.

We’re proud to work with some fantastic local attractions to offer exclusive discounts and special offers at selected venues. Participating attractions are marked below, and simply showing a valid receipt from one participating venue at another will unlock your 10% off discount. Even beyond the special offers, there’s plenty nearby to help you make the most of your visit.

National Stone Centre

Distance from GBCJ: 5.9 miles
INCLUDED in Explore Derbyshire 10% off!

The National Stone Centre is a 40-acre site on the edge of the Peak District featuring 330-million-year-old geological formations and is a site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for geology. Set on the site of six former limestone quarries, it is a unique space to explore a beautiful natural landscape. Indoor and outdoor activities are also available year-round, including Gem Panning and Fossil Trails. The Quarry café serves delicious home cooked food made with local produce and the Rock Shop offers a range of crystals, minerals, and gifts. Well behaved dogs are also welcome both onsite and in the visitor centre and cafe.

National Tramway Museum

Distance from GBCJ: 2.8 miles
INCLUDED in Explore Derbyshire 10% off!

The National Tramway Museum in Crich offers a unique day out, combining a fascinating open-air museum with a living heritage transport experience. Step back in time as you explore historic street scenes, discover collections celebrating the history of tram travel, and enjoy the chance to ride beautifully restored vintage trams through the picturesque Derbyshire countryside. A fantastic attraction for families, transport enthusiasts and anyone looking for something a little different.

Peak Rail

Distance from GBCJ: 7.5 miles
INCLUDED in Explore Derbyshire 10% off!

Just a short drive from Great British Car Journey, Peak Rail offers a charming heritage railway experience through the heart of the Derbyshire countryside. Step aboard beautifully restored vintage trains and enjoy a nostalgic journey along the scenic line between Matlock and Rowsley, taking in stunning views along the way. A fantastic day out for families, railway enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience a little classic British transport history.

Bakewell Old House Museum

Distance from GBCJ: 13 miles
INCLUDED in Explore Derbyshire 10% off!

Discover the rich history of Bakewell Old House Museum, one of the oldest surviving Tudor houses in the Peak District. Set within a beautifully preserved 16th-century building, the museum brings local history to life through fascinating artefacts, recreated period rooms and hands-on exhibits exploring everything from childhood and domestic life to the traditions and industries that shaped Derbyshire over the centuries. A hidden gem in the heart of Bakewell.

Poole’s Cavern

Distance from GBCJ: 26 miles
INCLUDED in Explore Derbyshire 10% off!

Explore the natural wonder of Poole’s Cavern, a spectacular two-million-year-old limestone cave hidden beneath the hills of Buxton. Guided tours take visitors deep into the cavern to discover impressive crystal formations, fascinating geology and the legends surrounding its history, while the surrounding woodland trails and views from Grin Low make it a fantastic day out for families, walkers and curious explorers alike.

Creswell Crags

Distance from GBCJ: 28 miles
INCLUDED in Explore Derbyshire 10% off!

Step into prehistoric Britain at Creswell Crags, a remarkable limestone gorge home to Britain’s only known Ice Age cave art. With fascinating guided tours, museum exhibits and dramatic caves to explore, it offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the people and animals that inhabited the area thousands of years ago. A truly unforgettable day out for history lovers, families and anyone curious about Britain’s ancient past.

Masson Mills

Distance from GBCJ: 4.3 miles
INCLUDED in Explore Derbyshire 10% off!

Discover the story of Derbyshire’s industrial heritage at Masson Mills, Sir Richard Arkwright’s historic textile mill on the banks of the River Derwent. Explore fascinating exhibits showcasing the history of cotton spinning, engineering and working life during the Industrial Revolution, making it a great day out for history enthusiasts and families alike in the heart of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site.

Cromford Mills

Distance from GBCJ: 4.6 miles
INCLUDED in Explore Derbyshire 10% off!

Visit Cromford Mills, the world’s first successful water-powered cotton spinning mill and the birthplace of the modern factory system. Set within the heart of the Derwent Valley Mills UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cromford Mills offers a fascinating insight into Derbyshire’s industrial past, with historic buildings, exhibitions, shops, cafés and scenic riverside walks to enjoy.

Heage Windmill

Distance from GBCJ: 2.9 miles
INCLUDED in Explore Derbyshire 10% off!

Step back into Derbyshire’s rural past at Heage Windmill, a beautifully restored 18th-century six-sailed windmill and one of the few working examples of its kind in the UK. Join a guided tour to uncover the fascinating history of traditional flour milling, explore the inner workings of this remarkable landmark, and if you visit on a milling day, see the sails turning and machinery in action for a truly memorable experience.

Buxton Crescent Experience

Distance from GBCJ: 26 miles
INCLUDED in Explore Derbyshire 10% off!

Experience the story of one of Derbyshire’s most iconic landmarks at The Buxton Crescent Experience, an immersive attraction that brings the fascinating history of Buxton’s famous Georgian spa heritage to life. Through interactive exhibits, captivating storytelling and beautifully restored surroundings, visitors can discover how Buxton became a fashionable destination for health, wellness and high society through the centuries.

Midland Railway – Butterley

Distance from GBCJ: 5.4 miles
INCLUDED in Explore Derbyshire 10% off!

All aboard at Midland Railway – Butterley, a heritage railway attraction offering a nostalgic journey through Britain’s rich transport history. From vintage train rides and historic locomotives to railway exhibits, period buildings and family-friendly events, it’s a fantastic day out for rail enthusiasts, families and anyone who loves a step back in time.

Peak District Mining Museum

Distance from GBCJ: 5.4 miles
INCLUDED in Explore Derbyshire 10% off!

Unearth Derbyshire’s rich industrial past at Peak District Mining Museum, where the fascinating story of lead mining and life underground is brought to life through hands-on exhibits, historic artefacts and immersive displays. For an even more memorable experience, visitors can also explore the nearby Temple Mine on a guided tour and discover what working beneath the Peak District was really like.

White Peak Distillery

Distance from GBCJ: Same site!
INCLUDED in Explore Derbyshire 10% off!

Conveniently located on the same site as Great British Car Journey, just across the river, White Peak Distillery offers the perfect addition to your visit for those who enjoy great spirits and unique local experiences. As Derbyshire’s first full-scale craft whisky distillery, visitors can discover the fascinating process behind modern whisky-making through guided tours and tastings, with the chance to sample their award-winning spirits in a distinctive riverside setting. Ideal for turning your trip into a full day out, it’s quite literally just a short stroll away.

Matlock Farm Park

Distance from GBCJ: 11 miles

Matlock Farm Park is a fantastic family-friendly attraction offering hands-on animal encounters, outdoor play and plenty of countryside fun. From meeting farm animals and enjoying feeding experiences to play areas, tractor rides and seasonal activities, there’s plenty to keep younger visitors entertained. Set in the beautiful Derbyshire countryside, it’s a great option for families looking to make even more of their day out in the area.

Chatsworth House & Gardens

Distance from GBCJ: 15 miles

Chatsworth House is one of Derbyshire’s most iconic attractions and well worth a visit if you’re making a day or weekend of your trip. Home to magnificent interiors, world-class art collections, beautifully landscaped gardens and a popular farmyard and adventure playground, Chatsworth offers something for all ages. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, stunning countryside walks or simply a great family day out, it’s a true Derbyshire must-see.

NB: While we’re delighted to recommend local attractions and accommodation to help you plan your visit, please note that all listings featured are independently operated third-party businesses. Great British Car Journey is not responsible for their pricing, availability, services, experiences, or any changes to information shown, so we’d always recommend checking directly with the provider before booking.