Famous for being the home of the Peak District National Park (three-quarters of its 550 square miles lies within the county), Derbyshire is filled with natural appeal. From the historic city of Derby to picturesque villages nestled in unspoiled countryside, this book takes the reader on a fascinating journey through bustling market towns, vast landscapes and special places of historic interest. Spectacular upland views, castles, museums and scenes of bucolic beauty attract millions of visitors every year, and all are included here in a lovingly painted picture of Derbyshire today. In 50 Gems of Derbyshire, author Mike Appleton explores the places that make this county special.

Mike Appleton has been a journalist, editor, author and media professional since 1998. He has received critical acclaim for his publications. Born in St Helens, but now living in Lancashire, he made regular trips to the Yorkshire Dales with his father and those early days bore an obsession with area and its people, resulting in his book Yorkshire's Three Peaks. He’s an active caver and walker, spending as much time as he can in the Yorkshire Dales, writing and photographing its unique landscape.