Dream big. That's what Chatsworth House* is. A house of dreamers. Of creators. That is your destination today.
First though, you must drag yourself away from vibrant Manchester. It will be worth it, since you enter one of Britain's most famously beautiful regions. The Peak District National Park is rich in limestone, moorland plateaus, iconic villages, and... harrowing stories of murder and death. From the Christmas Eve murder in Hassop in 1866 to the Legend of Lovers Leap, it makes one wonder... is there something in the water?
Your first stop is in the lovely spa town of Buxton. Walking among the ornamental gardens and world-famous Georgian and Victorian architecture, you'll come away from this vibrant town refreshed and inspired... and ready for more.
In the early afternoon you'll reach the impressive Chatsworth House. You'll have several hours here to explore. What you do and see is up to you. Maybe you'll take in the beauty of the estate's gardens? Maybe you simply can't miss the collection of masterpieces inside, artworks from Rembrandt, Reynolds, Veronese. Maybe the kids are begging you to head straight for the farmyard and playground, because who doesn't love cows and a zip line? You'll need to refuel after taking it all in. There are plenty of places at the estate to stop for a treat, whether you just need a quick bite or a full meal.
Your return journey to Manchester will be an interesting one, stopping at some viewpoints along the way.