With the leaves turning gold and the days still long enough for exploring, autumn in the Derbyshire Dales is packed with culture, sport, and seasonal magic. Read about our four highlights for September and October 2025.
Wirksworth Festival
Dates: 12–21 September 2025
One of Derbyshire’s most distinctive arts festivals returns for ten days of exhibitions, live music, theatre, and its famous Art Trail weekend (13–14 September), when private homes and historic buildings open their doors to host hundreds of artists. Street performers, craft markets, and pop-up food stalls bring the town to life.
Derbyshire Dales Trail Run
Date: Sunday 14 September 2025
Starting from Bakewell Showground, runners can choose a Half Marathon, 15K or 9.5K route. All follow scenic stretches of the Monsal Trail, taking in viaducts, valleys, and a glimpse of Chatsworth House. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a keen walker, the atmosphere is both competitive and friendly.
Matlock Bath Illuminations
Dates: 6 September – 26 October 2025 (weekends)
A Derbyshire tradition for more than 130 years, this autumn spectacle sees the River Derwent lit up with illuminated, decorated boats every weekend. Enjoy live music, fairground rides, and food stalls as the cliffside glows with coloured lights.
MAGIC at Haddon Hall
Dates: 20 September – 31 October 2025
Step into a world of Elizabethan folklore, charms, and superstition. This atmospheric exhibition combines historic artefacts, immersive soundscapes, and projections to bring centuries-old beliefs to life inside one of England’s most beautiful medieval houses.
Where to Stay
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The Escape – A spacious five-bedroom luxury holiday cottage near Bakewell, perfect for gatherings. Games room, sheltered hot tub, and private parking for four cars
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Two Owls Lodge – A woodland-edged two-bedroom lodge near Matlock (Two Dales), sleeping three, with walking trails from the door.
- If you’re looking for other Matlock accommodation self catering options, check out Brookside Retreat and the 5 bedroom holiday cottage Derbyshire, the Haven available on our sister website, Luxury Holiday Homes Derbyshire.