We walked (appx 6.5 miles) through beautiful Derbyshire countryside, along the banks of the river Wye, past Litton Mill (the notorious mill which inspired Charles Dickens to write Oliver Twist), past Arkwright's Cressbrook Mill, and through the Monsal Dale (and over the viaduct) to Monsal Head.

Then a lovely lunch at the Peacock at Rowsley - www.thepeacockatrowsley.co.uk

before spending the afternoon touring Haddon Hall - probably the most unspoilt medieval manor house in England. (Even if you have never been to Haddon you will recognise it as it has featured in numerous films and TV programmes). www.haddonhall.co.uk

ITK - try nearby Hardwick Hall next, a gem.

'More glass than wall' they said when it was built in the 1590's.

Owned by the same family as Chatsworth, also closeby; arguably, the latter is the finest house/home in the UK.

Good luck.

Thanks, Martha - Hardwick is down for tomorrow !