Belper Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Belper Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Belper punches well above its weight for sightseeing opportunities. The town's industrial heritage is fascinating - I recommend starting at Strutt's North Mill (DE56 1YD, open Wed-Sun 11am-4pm, 4/5 on TripAdvisor). This former cotton mill houses exhibits on the town's textile history and the Strutt family who transformed Belper.

Belper River Gardens (DE56 1BE, open daily, dawn till dusk, 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor) offers beautiful riverside walks and seasonal boat hire. The gardens date back to 1906 and provide excellent views of the East Mill - that massive red brick building dominates Belper's skyline.

For something different, check out Heage Windmill (DE56 2BH, open weekends April-October, 10am-4pm, 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor). It's the only working six-sailed stone windmill in England and sits just outside Belper with fantastic views. We love that volunteers give really informative tours.

The Ritz Cinema (DE56 1FD) is a proper old-school independent cinema in a 1930s building. Locals rave about its charm and reasonable prices compared to big multiplexes. Perfect for rainy evenings when you're not using your hot tub!

Pet Friendly

Belper is brilliant for dog owners. The Derwent Valley offers miles of riverside walks where your dog can splash about. Belper Parks Local Nature Reserve has woodland trails and open spaces perfect for ball games and sniffing expeditions.

Many local pubs welcome dogs. The George & Dragon (DE56 1BE) has water bowls and treats behind the bar. The Lion Hotel (DE56 1AW) allows dogs in the bar area and garden. Both serve good pub grub so you don't need to leave your four-legged mate behind.

Belper Farmers Market (2nd Saturday monthly) is dog-friendly and several stalls sell homemade dog treats. The town's pet shop, Ani-Mate (DE56 1FJ), stocks emergency supplies and local walking maps.

Top tip: The Beth's Poetry Trail in Derwent Valley has 20 poems displayed on plaques along a lovely 2-mile route. Dogs love the varied terrain and you get culture too - win-win!

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Belper

The Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site (DE56 1YD) isn't just one building but a collection of historic mills, workers' housing and industrial infrastructure. The visitor centre explains how this valley changed manufacturing forever. What makes this special is how the whole town developed around the mills - you're literally walking through living history. The guided tours (weekends only, book ahead) take you inside areas not normally open to the public.

Belper North Mill and River Gardens combine brilliantly for a full day out. The mill shows how cotton was processed, with working machinery demonstrations on Saturdays. The gardens provide perfect picnic spots with the backdrop of the weir. In summer, the bandstand hosts free concerts on Sunday afternoons. One visitor called it "the perfect mix of industry and nature" on TripAdvisor and I totally agree.

St John's Chapel (DE56 1FH) might look unassuming from outside, but this 13th-century church contains incredible medieval wall paintings only discovered during renovations in the 1980s. The paintings show biblical scenes and were hidden under plaster during the Reformation. They've been carefully restored and provide a rare glimpse into pre-Reformation English church decoration. Open Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, with knowledgeable volunteer guides.

Is Belper good for walking holidays?

Absolutely! Belper sits in the southern Peak District with dozens of marked trails. The Derwent Valley Heritage Way runs right through town. For spectacular views, try the 5-mile circular walk from Belper to Heage Windmill. After a day's hiking, that hot tub will feel amazing!

Where can I eat in Belper?

Belper has fantastic independent food options. Fresh Basil (DE56 1FZ) is a deli-café with amazing sandwiches. The Hurt Arms (DE56 2EJ) serves excellent gastropub food. For something special, Angelo's (DE56 1FJ) offers authentic Italian cuisine. The town also won a Great British High Street award partly due to its food scene.

Can I visit Belper without a car?

Yes! Belper has direct train connections to Derby (15 mins), Nottingham (30 mins) and Matlock (20 mins). The station is central and most attractions are within walking distance. Local buses connect to surrounding villages and beauty spots.

What's the best time to visit Belper?

Belper is lovely year-round, but May-September offers the best weather for enjoying your hot tub. The Belper Arts Festival in May features over 150 events. July brings the Belper Food Festival, which attracts thousands of visitors and showcases local producers.

Are there any unusual attractions nearby?

Crich Tramway Village (DE4 5DP, 15 mins drive) lets you ride vintage trams on a mile-long track. The National Stone Centre (DE4 4LS, 20 mins drive) sounds boring but is actually fascinating with its fossil trails and geo-walks. Both make great day trips from your Belper base.

What's the shopping like in Belper?

Belper won Best High Street in England awards because of its independent shops. King Street has vintage stores, craft shops and boutiques. The 1924 Building houses several artisan food producers. Monthly farmers' markets and seasonal craft markets add variety.

1. Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site
2. Visit Peak District Official Site
3. Belper Cottages Association
4. Love Belper - Local Business Directory