Shopping

▲ Inside the John Smedley Mill Shop

If you fancy a break from outdoor pursuits, here’s a selection of interesting shopping experiences and outlets.

John Smedley Mill Shop, Lea Mills, Lea Bridge, Matlock DE4 5AG

This bargain-hunters’ paradise is located just two minutes from the door of Cotton House. Here you can snap up the world’s finest knitwear for a fraction of its retail price in Harrods or Selfridges.

Celebrities who’ve been spotted wearing Smedley garments include Tom Cruise, Idris Elba, Kate Winslet, Scarlett Johansson, Madonna and Stormzy!

Denby Pottery Village, Derby Road, Denby DE5 8NX

If you’re a fan of Derbyshire-made Denby Pottery, you can visit the Pottery Village and outlet store for some very attractive discounts (up to 60% off).

Bourne’s Coffee Shop & Bistro and The Ginger Cooks café are open for indoor dining and there’s no need to book a table in advance.

Other attractions include a craft studio for creative ‘play with clay’ and pottery painting fun every day of the week. Booking is advisable.

McArthur Glen East Midlands Designer Outlet, Mansfield Road, South Normanton DE55 2JW

The outlet is located near Junction 28 of the M1, so could be a convenient dropping off point on your trip to and from Cotton House.

The site houses over 65 high-end stores and eateries with plenty of parking.

De Bradelei Shopping Village Chapel Street, Belper DE56 1AR

This shopping village bills itself as “destination shopping in the heart of Belper.” It offers discounts on several women’s and men’s clothing lines as well as footwear and refreshments.

While you are out, you could treat yourself to fish and chips from George’s fish and chip shop (acknowledged to be one of the best in the area) or Ambergate chip shop, also excellent. Both are on your route back to Cotton House from Belper.

Chatsworth Estate Farm Shop, Pilsley, Bakewell DE45 1UF

If you’re planning a trip to Chatsworth House and gardens, it’s well worth calling in at the farm shop to pick up a few delicacies and eat in the excellent café. Be prepared to queue if you go at a busy time.

Hartington Cheese Shop, Market Place, Hartington, Buxton SK17 0AL

While visiting the White Peak area of the Peak District and River Dove, if you love cheese, make time to visit the Hartington Cheese Shop and sample some of its famous stilton cheese. You can read more about the cheeses made at the Hartington Creamery here.

Bakewell Monday Market, Bakewell town centre DE45 1DS

The award-winning Bakewell stall market is open every Monday from 9 am to 4 pm, including bank holidays.

Bakewell is an attractive market town bustling with cafés, pubs, delis and shops. This traditional market offers around 140 stalls, and the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly. It’s the only market in the Peak District National Park and attracts visitors from all over Derbyshire and beyond.

Take the opportunity to sample some delicious Bakewell tart while you’re there!

▲ The twisted spire of Chesterfield parish church

Chesterfield Market, Market Place, Chesterfield S40 1AR

Chesterfield market sells a wide range of products at exceptional value, including fruit and vegetables, clothes, fabrics and household goods. It operates on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays.

While in Chesterfield, you can marvel at the parish church’s famous crooked spire, as shown in the photo above.

Car boot sales

Local car boot sales are an absorbing way to while away a few hours on Sunday. One of the biggest local markets is Tansley Sunday market and car boot sale.