[Advertisement]
May half term is just around the corner and we’re all hoping to be able to make some time for fun in the sun with the family! To help you make the most of your leisure time during the school break, we’ve partnered with Enterprise Rent-A-Car to bring you inspo on staycations that will fill your holiday with adventure.
Our chosen destination for you lot is Bakewell, a quaint market town famous for being the birthplace of a certain delicious pudding and only approximately 1.5 hours drive outside of the city. With over 400 branches in the UK, Enterprise Rent-A-Car is such a convenient option for planning a spontaneous road trip. From compact cars to people carriers, you can find the perfect vehicle to suit your family. Keep reading for inspo on your half term road trip itinerary…
Find your Enterprise Rent-A-Car now!
1. Poole’s Cavern & Country Park
There’s nothing like an expedition beneath the earth to encourage some family bonding, and at Poole’s Cavern & Country Park you’ll take a journey back in time, walking chambers once inhabited by Stone age settlers! These vast cathedral-sized caverns now house mesmerising crystal stalactites which have grown over thousands of years. Once you’re done exploring this hidden wonder, there’s also country park woodlands and fantastic views of the Peak District from Solomon’s Temple nearby to explore. Green Lane, Buxton, SK17 9DH, Derbyshire, United Kingdom
2. Cromford Mills
This 18th century landmark is the world’s first ever successful water-powered cotton spinning mill, and played an instrumental role in the industrial revolution. Surrounded by stunning Derbyshire countryside, Cromford Mills is also free to explore and makes a great starting point (or pitstop!) on a scenic walk. If you are stopping for lunch, there’s two lovely cafes in the millyard, along with some independent shops where you can find souvenirs for your holiday. Mill Road, Cromford, Matlock DE4 3RQ
3. Bolsover Castle
Once an extravagant pleasure palace for Stuart aristocracy, this hilltop mansion is steeped in history, making for a truly fascinating day out. Across lavishly decorated rooms, a riding school and a beautifully recreated garden you can immerse yourself in the history with help from costumed storytellers. You’ll also find breathtaking countryside views along the restored wall walk, and the interactive exhibition in the stables is always a winner with families. Castle Street, Bolsover, Chesterfield S44 6PR
4. Monsal Nature Trail
Following the former Midland railway line, the Monsal Trail is a traffic-free route that offers unprecedented views of the surrounding countryside. Whether it’s a leisurely walk or a long cycle, you can adjust your route to suit your agenda for the day. Along the way you’ll encounter an old railway station, now home to a cafe serving delicious meals and irresistible treats. At Hassop Station Cafe you’ll also find a children’s play area, a woodfired pizza trailer and a bike rental shop, in case you didn’t bring your own! Hassop Station, Hassop Road, Bakewell DE45 1NW
5. Peak District National Park
There’s nothing like spotting wildlife from the water, and on your travels in the Peak District National Park you can do exactly that. Peaks and Paddles Outdoor Adventure offers an array of boating experiences, perfect for experiencing the gorgeous surrounding nature from a new perspective. You can sit back and relax in an instructor-driven canoe ride, or why not take the reins yourself in a kayak, which can hold up to two people per boat? 3 Lime Grove, Darley Dale, Matlock, DE4 2GS
Need some wallet-friendly suggestions for where to stay the night? Mandale campsite is a lovely family-friendly place to pitch a tent, located on a working farm with plenty of animals grazing in surrounding fields.