Picturesque driving route near Nottingham takes you through the heart of the Peak District

With Easter just around the corner and longer days on the horizon, many of us are thinking about how to make the most of the upcoming long weekend.

Of course, there will be plenty of 'Eastery' activities for you to sink your teeth into taking place in and around the city, but if egg hunts aren't your thing, we've come up with a fun way to waste a day.

So load up your car, maybe even pack a picnic, and spend the day exploring the delights of the Peak District that are right on our doorstep.

READ MORE: What's On in Nottingham?

One of our favourite activities is going for a long drive, rolling down the windows, blasting the stereo, and enjoying those deep chats you only have when you're in the car.

Oh and don't forget everyone's favourite shared pastime shouting 'cows' every time you see one.

One picturesque driving route near Nottingham is the journey through the Peak District National Park, which takes in stunning views and rolling hills.

Here's a suggested route:

Start your journey in Nottingham and head north on the A60 towards Mansfield. From there, you can join the A619 towards Chesterfield. This road will take you into the heart of the Peak District.

As you enter the Peak District, you'll be surrounded by stunning scenery, including rolling hills, lush valleys, and charming villages. Take your time to enjoy the views and perhaps make a stop at one of the picturesque villages such as Bakewell or Castleton.

Continue your journey through the Peak District, following the signs for Buxton. This part of the route offers breathtaking views as you wind your way through the rugged landscape.

Once you reach Buxton, you can take a break and explore this historic spa town, known for its Georgian architecture and natural springs. Don't miss the chance to visit the famous Buxton Opera House or take a stroll through the beautiful Pavilion Gardens.

From Buxton, you can head back towards Nottingham via the A6, passing through more scenic countryside along the way. Alternatively, you can continue your exploration of the Peak District by following one of the many other picturesque driving routes in the area.

Remember to take your time and enjoy the journey, as the Peak District offers some of the most stunning scenery in England, perfect for a leisurely drive.

The duration of the drive will depend on several factors, including traffic conditions, how often you stop to admire the scenery or explore attractions along the way, and your driving speed.

However, as a rough estimate, the entire loop from Nottingham through the Peak District and back could take around 4 to 6 hours of driving time, covering approximately 120-150 miles (193-241 km).