SUMMER FUN: The 8 best gardens to see in Derbyshire

Today is the official start of the meteorological summer so what better way to celebrate than to experience the beauty of nature in all its glory?

Wherever you look everything is so lush and colourful that it makes you just want to get out and enjoy it, weather permitting.

But where are the best places in Derbyshire to see the very best mother nature has to offer?

We put together a list of the eight best gardens you can visit in our beautiful county to give you a few ideas.

1. Chatsworth House, Bakewell

Peter Johnson on Google said: “A great place to visit. Some fantastic walks on the grounds. The gardens are really beautiful and you never really know what to expect around the corner.”

2. Lea Gardens, Matlock

Richard Heyes on Google said: “Absolutely love Lea gardens. Visit from mid May through June to get the rhododendrons and azaleas at their best. We’ve been a few times at this time of year and enjoy it every time.”

3. Melbourne Hall, near Derby

G6ued on TripAdvisor said: “Even though it was a bit late in the year, the gardens were looking lovely and very well kept. Beautiful vistas across the lake and many small pools. Lots of statues and things of interest to look for in the gardens.”

4. Hardwick Hall, near Chesterfield

Andrew Archibald on Google said: “The grounds show off the Derbyshire countryside at its best and the National Trust has created a welcoming experience for visitors with the cafe, shop and well prepared walking routes.”

5. Haddon Hall, Bakewell

Branda Murphy on Google said: “Simply wonderful! Staff here were so friendly and helpful! The grounds were also awesome! A fantastic place to visit!”

6. Kedleston Hall, near Derby

A Google user said: “I love the grounds which are a photographers paradise, the wild life and the Hall it self is superbly looked after with wonderful information available by the caring National Trust.”

7. Bluebell Arboretum and Nursery, near Ashby-de-la-Zouch

Rob N on TripAdvisor said: “A beautiful place to wander round , full of beautiful trees and shrubs, many of them rare. The planting is well thought out and you don’t have to be a keen gardener to appreciate it.

8. Pavilion Gardens, Buxton

Mike H on TripAdvisor said: “Really beautiful gardens in the heart of the town. Immaculately looked after with a small river running through it. Plenty of amenities, cafe, toilets etc and within a 5 minute stroll of the city centre.”