Courtyard Holiday Rental & Apartments

Things to Do in Belper & Beyond

Explore, Taste, Discover – All from Your Courtyard Base

Welcome to Belper, Derbyshire’s award-winning market town nestled at the heart of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site. Staying at Courtyard Holiday Apartments puts you right in the centre of it all – history, culture, countryside, artisan food and unforgettable experiences. Here’s your handpicked guide to the best Belper and the surrounding area has to offer.


A Town Full of Charm

Historic & Cultural Highlights

  • Strutt’s North Mill: Step into the Industrial Revolution at this iconic cotton mill and discover Belper’s game-changing history.
  • St John’s Chapel Heritage Centre: Dating back to 1250, this gem offers vintage photos and a peaceful moment of local reflection.
  • Heage Windmill: A working six-sailed windmill with panoramic views and fascinating heritage.

  • Duffield Castle: Explore the remains of this Norman motte-and-bailey castle.
  • The Great British Car Journey: An award-winning museum and motoring memory lane. Over 150 classic cars, an audio-guided tour, and even a chance to Drive Dad’s Car (including a DeLorean ✨).
  • Open 7 days a week | From £8 entry | Unit 4 Derwent Works, Ambergate DE56 2HE

Nature & Scenic Walks

  • Chatsworth House Grounds: Majestic gardens, fountains and woodland walks.
  • Belper River Gardens: Just a short stroll from your apartment. Perfect for riverside walks, summer concerts and peaceful picnics.
  • Belper Park Local Nature Reserve: Woodlands, wildlife, and winding trails through nature.

  • Dovedale: Famed for its stepping stones, dramatic limestone ravines and stunning views.
  • Carsington Water: Cycling, walking and bird watching just a short drive away.

The Best of Belper’s Town Life

Independent Shopping & Artisan Finds

  • Browse boutiques and gift shops along Bridge Street, Strutt Street, and Market Place
  • Discover hand-crafted jewellery, local art, antiques, and artisan bakeries
  • Farmer’s Market: Every second Saturday on the 200-year-old Market Place
  • Food & Drink Fairs: Summer & Winter, twice a year ✨

Dining & Nightlife

  • Micropubs, bistros and live music
  • Fill your evenings with atmosphere
  • From cosy cafes to cocktail lounges, Belper has it all
  • Award-winning art deco cinema for film nights with a vintage twist

Annual Highlights & Events

  • Arts & Heritage Trail – Celebrating local makers & stories
  • Belper Food Festivals – Summer and Winter crowd favourites
  • Live River Garden Concerts – Alfresco music with a view

All From Your Front Door

Staying at Courtyard Holiday Apartments means you’re always just steps away from:

  • Scenic walks & riverside views
  • Local artisan food & award-winning pubs
  • Unmissable history & iconic attractions

Belper truly offers the perfect balance of countryside and cultural buzz. Whether you’re staying for a weekend or a while, you’ll never be short of things to do.


Ready to explore? Book your stay today and make Courtyard Holiday Apartments your base for discovering the very best of Derbyshire.