Country Images Magazine

Explore Peak District and Derbyshire National Trust summer gardens
2026-06-24 08:00 - 2026-08-31 17:00 (Europe/London) | Kedleston Hall, Kedleston Road, near Quarndon,, Derby,, Derbyshire,, DE22 5JH
Early summer is the perfect time to reconnect with natures quiet rhythms. As borders burst into colour, National Trust gardens in summer invite visitors to slow down and linger a little longer.
Take in the sights and scents of flowers in full bloom and pause for a moment finding a peaceful escape from the pace of everyday life.
Visitors can while away hours in the sunshine meandering along tree-lined paths, through formal gardens and historic parterres, or basking in the warmth of walled kitchen gardens. Shady orchards are home to heritage varieties of fruit trees, and wildflower meadows buzz with life. Enjoy a solo stroll or share the moment with family and friends and pack a picnic for a full day out.
Each garden is looked after by a team of the charity’s staff and volunteers and is planted to not only add colour and interest, but support wildlife and nature too.
To celebrate the colourful, quiet days of early summer, the National Trust has pulled together a list of the best summer gardens to explore now in Peak District and Derbyshire.
To find out more visit: Gardens in the Peak District and Derbyshire | National Trust
Here are the details for the best summer gardens in Peak District and Derbyshire:
Ilam Park, Peak District
In summer, the Italianate Garden at Ilam Park provides a colourful focal point beneath the dramatic backdrop of Thorpe Cloud and the surrounding White Peak landscape. Formal planting, sweeping terraces and vibrant seasonal displays bring the historic garden to life, while the peaceful setting beside the River Manifold makes it an ideal place to pause, picnic and take in the views. Ilam Park is open daily, car park charges apply, free for National Trust members.
Hardwick, Doe, Lea, Chesterfield

Visiting the gardens at Hardwick, open daily.
Accessible garden walks, perfect for pushchairs or wheelchair users
Picnic under trees in the orchard amongst the wild grass meadow
Enjoy early summer colour along the South Border

As early summer arrives, the historic gardens of Hardwick are bursting with colour. From the vibrant floral borders to tranquil lawns, Hardwick is the perfect place to find a moment of calm and reconnect with nature. The herbaceous borders are coming into full bloom with displays of alliums, peonies and roses. The fragrant herb garden fills with summer colour and the orchards are a haven of tranquillity.
Calke Abbey, Ticknall

Visiting Calke Abbey’s garden | Derbyshire | National Trust, open daily.
Accessible walks, with buggy rides available to the garden entrance from the main car park
Walk beneath the sweetpea arch and relax under dappled shade in the orchard

Take a photo of the pelargoniums displayed on the auricula theatre
Smell the roses and admire bright colours in the herbaceous borders

Calke’s extensive gardens are in full bloom, with the potted pelargoniums taking centre stage on the auricula theatre. The sweetpea arch in the physic garden provides a perfect photo opportunity, and the slip garden is a quiet place to take a seat and enjoy the quiet, awash with colour from the wildflower borders. Find shade under the trees in the Pleasure Grounds, and cool off in the garden tunnels.
Kedleston Hall, near Quarndon, Derby

Visiting the park at Kedleston | Derbyshire | National Trust, open daily
On June 24th and July 21st, discover behind the scenes insights with Kedleston Hall’s gardeners, Evening Garden Tours | National Trust
On June 12th and 13th, outdoor theatre arrives with King Arthur and the Holy Fail, Outdoor Theatre at Kedleston Hall – King Arthur and the Holy Fail | National Trust
Leisurely strolls through vibrant 18th century Pleasure Ground flower beds
Garden walks with accessibility, ideal for wheelchair users and pushchairs
Historic features such as an 18th century Portland stone lion, an orangery and Summer House.
Enjoy sweeping views towards the house and surrounding countryside
Rest at a shady spot at the Loggia and enjoy views peering into the garden

As summer approaches and sunlight bathes Kedleston Hall’s historic garden, discover picturesque pot displays, scenic house viewpoints, and 18th century beds in full bloom. Across varied garden borders as the season develops, uncover vibrant varieties of echinacea, as well as colour pops of peonies, roses, and lobelia. Rooted in garden grounds for centuries, uncover mature tree species such as oak and flowering sweet chestnut – perfect for finding a shady corner to pause and admire Kedleston’s garden at its best.
The Children’s Country House, Sudbury, Ashbourne, DE6 5HT

Children’s Country House Garden | Derby | National Trust, check online for summertime opening days
An accessible Sunken Garden for pushchair and wheelchair accessibility
Stroll along historic terraces highlighted with pots of colour
Experience a mindful moment at Lilypond fountain in the centre of the garden

Across The Children’s Country House as we head into summer, look out for early colour highlight in flowering alliums. As the season comes into its own, woodland geraniums blossom and terrace beds feature roses in full bloom. At the Sunken Garden, colour will continue to build with clusters of peonies and heuchera. A garden season highlight, don’t miss flowering tree canopies of pink horse chestnut and scented lime trees – ideal for a peaceful spot to rest at out of the summer sun.
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Shipley Country Park Food Festival Shipley Country Park, Heanor?
2026-06-20 10:30 - 2026-06-21 16:00 | Shipley Country Park, Heanor Slack Lane Heanor Derbyshire DE75 7GX, Heanor Slack Lane, Heanor, Derbyshire, DE75 7GX, United Kingdom
Get ready for a delicious day out at the Shipley Country Park Food Festival, where great food, local producers and a relaxed festival atmosphere come together in the beautiful surroundings of one of Derbyshire’s most loved country parks.
At Shipley Country Park, Heanor
From Sat 20th June 2026 To Sun 21st June 2026
From 10.30am To 4.00pm

Visitors can explore a fantastic selection of street food vendors, artisan food stalls and local producers, offering everything from sizzling global street food and gourmet burgers to handmade cakes, sweet treats and speciality drinks. Whether you’re craving something savoury, indulgent or a little bit different, there will be plenty to tempt your tastebuds.
Alongside the food, the festival will feature craft stalls, local traders and family-friendly entertainment, making it the perfect day out for all ages. Bring your friends, bring the family, and enjoy a relaxed festival vibe surrounded by nature.
With live music, tasty food, refreshing drinks and plenty of space to sit back and enjoy the atmosphere, the Shipley Country Park Food Festival is a great way to spend the day outdoors while discovering some fantastic local food and drink.
Event Highlights

A wide range of street food and artisan food traders
Local producers showcasing delicious handmade products
Craft and gift stalls
Live music and entertainment
Family-friendly atmosphere in a beautiful park setting

Come hungry and make a day of it at the Shipley Country Park Food Festival.
Shipley Country Park, Heanor
Slack Lane
Heanor
Derbyshire
DE75 7GX
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Derby concert fundraising event - First Steps ED charity in city
2026-06-19 19:30 - 22:00 | Derby Cathedral, 18-19 Iron Gate,, Derby,, Derbyshire, DE1 3GP, United Kingdom
Acclaimed classical duo to headline Derby Cathedral ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ concert in aid of local eating disorder charity on Vernon Gate in Derby
First Steps ED, Derby’s nationally recognised eating disorder charity on Vernon Gate, has announced its most ambitious fundraising event to date – a spectacular concert at Derby Cathedral featuring internationally acclaimed classical duo the OperaBabes’ on Friday 19th June.
The evening, which will form part of the OperaBabes’ 25th anniversary celebrations, is expected to draw an audience of 500-600 people and will raise vital funds for the charity’s early intervention and specialist support services.
For OperaBabe Karen England, who grew up in Derby, the concert carries a deeply personal significance. Her daughter lives with an eating disorder, giving Karen a first-hand understanding of the urgent need for accessible, specialist support.

She said: “First Steps ED does extraordinary work. This is a cause very close to my heart and I’m proud that our anniversary tour can play a part in supporting it.”
Founded in Derby in 2004, First Steps ED has grown from a locally rooted initiative into a charity supporting individuals and families across the UK. Eating disorders carry one of the highest mortality rates of any mental health condition, yet timely intervention can be life-changing – and lifesaving.
Daniel Magson, CEO at First Steps ED, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to be staging what will be the largest fundraising event in our charity’s history. The OperaBabes’ bring real prestige to this occasion, and every ticket sold, every partnership secured, will directly help us support more people with eating disorders.”
The concert programme will showcase an outstanding line-up of performers, including a professional string quartet led by internationally acclaimed violinist Dora Chatzigeorgiou, the mixed-voice choir A Choir’d Taste, the renowned Dalesmen Male Voice Choir, the OperaBabes’ daughters, and a special performance from a choir representing The Ecclesbourne School – the Derby school attended by Karen England. Musical accompaniment will be provided by Alexander Binns, Director of Music at Derby Cathedral, with the concert under the musical direction of Paul Marshall.
Tickets are on sale now with all proceeds going directly to First Steps ED. You can buy tickets here: You’ll Never Walk Alone – OperaBabes Charity Concert Tickets, Friday, Jun 19 from 7:30 pm to 9:45 pm | Eventbrite
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Ashbourne Summer Programme - Family Community Events in Market Place
2026-06-17 08:00 - 17:00 | Ashbourne Market Place., Buxton Road,, Ashbourne, Derbyshire, DE6 1ES, United Kingdom
Ashbourne is preparing for a summer packed with family-friendly entertainment, community celebrations and town centre activity as local volunteers, businesses and organisations come together to launch a major programme of events in the town’s newly regenerated Market Place.
Following the completion of the town’s regeneration improvements and wider £15 million Levelling Up investment, the refurbished Market Place is set to become a vibrant focal point for community life, helping attract visitors, support independent businesses and create new reasons for people to spend time in the town centre.

Three major Sunday events have now been confirmed for Summer 2026:

Ashbourne Dog Day Out – Sunday 14th June
Ashbourne Classic Car Festival – Sunday 2nd August
Ashbourne Big Fashion Day Out – Sunday 6th September

The events are being coordinated by Ashbourne Town Team and Discover Ashbourne CIC in partnership with Ashbourne Town Council and the Ashbourne Festival, alongside local businesses, volunteers and community organisations, helping bring new energy, footfall and activity into the town centre throughout the summer months.
The programme aims to showcase Ashbourne as a vibrant destination market town whilst encouraging residents and visitors alike to enjoy the newly improved public spaces created through the regeneration programme.
The refurbished Market Place is already beginning to establish itself as an important hub for community events and activities, with the regular Makers Market now taking place in the town centre and future plans also being explored for a Food Market and After Dark Market.
All three summer events are designed to have strong family appeal, creating welcoming and inclusive days out for all ages whilst supporting local cafés, pubs, retailers and hospitality businesses across the town centre.
The first event, Ashbourne Dog Day Out, taking place on Sunday 14 June from 11am, promises a fun-filled community day bringing together dog lovers, families, visitors and local businesses in the heart of the town.
The event will feature a variety of dog show classes including Waggiest Tail, Fancy Dress, Best Rescue and Child Handler, alongside music, entertainment, local business stalls, refreshments and community activities throughout the day.
Organisers say the event is not only about celebrating dogs and the local community, but also about making full use of the newly upgraded public spaces and helping drive increased footfall into Ashbourne over the summer season.
The Ashbourne Classic Car Festival will then bring a stunning display of classic and vintage vehicles into the town centre during the height of the summer season, creating a major attraction for visitors and motoring enthusiasts from across the region.
Special recognition is being given to Ashbourne Car Enthusiasts, who are leading the organisation and coordination of the Classic Car Festival event.
The summer programme will culminate with the return of the Ashbourne Big Fashion Day Out in September, following the huge success of last year’s inaugural event which attracted hundreds of visitors into the town and generated widespread positive publicity for Ashbourne businesses and the wider town centre.
Anne Wright, Chair of Ashbourne Town Team, said:
“These events are about far more than simply putting on entertainment. They are about creating pride, energy and confidence in Ashbourne and making full use of the fantastic new Market Place space that has been created through the regeneration programme.
“We want Ashbourne to be known as a vibrant, welcoming and creative town which supports local businesses and gives people reasons to visit, stay longer and enjoy everything the town has to offer.
“There has been a huge effort from local volunteers, businesses and organisations to help make these events happen and we are incredibly grateful for all the support being shown across the community.”
Organisers are now encouraging local traders, hospitality businesses and community organisations to get involved, support the events and make the most of the increased visitor numbers expected throughout the summer.
Sponsorship opportunities, stallholder enquiries and volunteer support are also being welcomed.
Tickets for the Ashbourne Dog Day Out show classes will be available to purchase on the day, with advance tickets also available from Henmores in Ashbourne and Peak Village.
Further details about all summer events can be found on the “What’s On” pages of the Discover Ashbourne website and through participating businesses’ social media channels over the coming weeks.
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National Gallery masterpiece returns to Derby for Joseph Wright reunion
2026-06-17 08:00 - 17:00 | Derby Museum & Art Gallery, The Strand,, Derby, Derbyshire, DE1 1BS, United Kingdom
This month, two of Joseph Wright of Derby’s most celebrated masterpieces will be reunited in the artist’s hometown for the first time in 80 years—forming the centrepiece of a new exhibition.
Opened at Derby Museum & Art Gallery on 13 June 2026, Joseph Wright: From the Shadows is the world’s first exhibition dedicated to Wright’s famous candlelight paintings. Free to the public in Derby, the exhibition brings together twenty-one items from Derby Museums’ internationally significant Wright collection alongside the return of An Experiment on a Bird in the Air Pump (1768) on loan from The National Gallery, London.
Displayed next to Derby’s own A Philosopher Lecturing on the Orrery in which a Lamp is put in the Place of the Sun (1766), the pairing reunites two of the most iconic images in British art—seen together in Derby now for the first time since 1947.

Widely regarded as one of the most exciting and innovative painters of the 18th century, Wright’s paintings capture dramas of spectatorship and learning; when science is theatre, discovery is spectacle, and human curiosity is at its most profound. Here, we see demonstrations of the workings of the Solar System and the properties of air and its importance to life.
Two 17th-century Dutch candlelight paintings, The Concert by Hendrick ter Brugghen and A Man Offering Gold and Coins to a Girl by Godfried Schalcken, now also join the show on loan from the National Gallery, to explore Wright’s wider influences for the first time. Wright’s rarely seen An Academy by Lamplight (1769, private collection) will also join, supported by the National Gallery Trust. The exhibition loans are supported by the Weston Loan Programme with Art Fund.
The paintings’ return to Derby—where Wright was born and built his career—marks a significant cultural moment for the UK’s summer arts calendar.
The exhibition follows an acclaimed ticketed presentation at The National Gallery in 2025, before arriving in Derby for its final, uniquely meaningful chapter.
Alongside the exhibition, Derby Museums will launch a city-wide celebration of Wright’s legacy, including a new self-guided trail through places connected to the artist’s life and work, as well as partnerships with local businesses to welcome visitors exploring Derby as a summer cultural destination. The celebration marks the finale of Derby’s Year of Wright, which began with the exhibition Life on Paper exploring the artist’s lifelong love of drawing.
Lucy Bamford, Senior Curator for Art at Derby Museums, said:
“These paintings are among the most powerful. They are unforgettable images of British art. Seeing them reunited in Derby—where Wright’s story began—is a rare and inspiring experience.
From the Shadows in Derby offers both local and national audiences the chance to take a closer look at Wright’s extraordinary mastery of light, drama, and human emotion in this landmark touring exhibition”.
Tony Butler, Executive Director of Derby Museums, said:
“This exhibition places Derby at the centre of one of the most significant cultural moments of summer 2026. It is a celebration not only of Joseph Wright’s legacy but of the city that shaped one of Britain’s most original artistic voices. Our Year of Wright finale will show that there is no Wright without Derby.”
Derby Museums is grateful to its generous supporters who have made this exhibition possible: the government’s Museum Renewal Fund via The Weston Loan programme, Arts Council England, the National Gallery Trust, organised by Garfield Weston with Art Fund, The Ampersand Foundation, as well as a small number of individual supporters.
Sophia Weston, Deputy Chair of the Garfield Weston Foundation, said:
“The Weston Loan Programme with Art Fund, currently celebrating its tenth year, is the first ever UK-wide funding scheme to enable smaller and local authority museums to borrow art and artefacts from national collections. We are delighted that it is supporting the display of these important works in Derby, as part of this timely exploration of Joseph Wright’s candlelight paintings.”
Liz Johnson, Midlands Area Director at Arts Council England, said:
“Derby is known for its rich heritage of making, and this history is captured by Joseph Wright in his many and varied works of art. It’s great to be supporting Derby Museums in celebrating the ‘Year of Wright’ through the Museums Renewal Fund, encouraging national audiences to discover one of Britain’s most important artists in his hometown of Derby.”
The Trustees of the National Gallery Trust said:
“The National Gallery Trust is delighted to support From the Shadows in Derby with marketing and loan costs, enabling a rarely seen version of Academy by Lamplight to travel to Derby”
Flor Souto, CEO of The Ampersand Foundation said:
“At The Ampersand Foundation, we are proud to support Derby Museums in reuniting some of Joseph Wright’s most celebrated works in the artist’s hometown. This exhibition offers a rare opportunity for audiences to experience these remarkable paintings together, and we are pleased to help bring its design to life.”
Joseph Wright: From the Shadows runs from 13 June to 1 November 2026 at Derby Museum & Art Gallery. It is curated by Christine Riding at the National Gallery and Lucy Bamford at Derby Museums. Admission is free.
Please credit all attached images © Derbymuseums/Pictoria pictures
For further press information, interviews, or images, please contact:
Jenny Lea — jenny@culturecommscollective.com | 07787 773344
Morag Wood — morag@culturecommscollective.com | 07976 081004
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