Melbourne Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide to Melbourne, including a list of places to visit, hiking and biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety and health, and transportation options.


Introduction to Melbourne

Melbourne is a charming market town located in the Derbyshire Dales, in the picturesque region of East Midlands in England, United Kingdom. It is a perfect base to explore the stunning Peak District National Park, which is just a stone’s throw away from the town.

Melbourne offers a mix of rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Visitors can explore the town’s numerous museums and historical sites, indulge in outdoor activities, go on a food tour, or shop for souvenirs and local products. There’s something for everyone in Melbourne.

List of Places to Visit in Melbourne

Here’s a list of must-visit places in Melbourne that caters to all interests and preferences:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Melbourne Hall: This beautiful historic house boasts exquisite architecture and stunning gardens. It’s a must-visit for history buffs.
  • St Michael’s Church: This magnificent church is situated on the town’s main street and has a rich history dating back to the Norman Conquest of England.
  • Thomas Cook Memorial Cottage: This quaint 17th-century cottage was the birthplace of the famous travel entrepreneur, Thomas Cook. Visitors can explore the cottage and learn about Cook’s life and travels.
  • Melbourne Market Place: This vibrant market square offers a range of shops and stalls that sell everything from antiques to fresh produce.

Natural Attractions of Melbourne: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Calke Abbey: This picturesque national trust estate offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and features beautiful gardens, an orangery, and a deer park.
  • Staunton Harold Reservoir: This scenic reservoir offers a variety of outdoor activities such as fishing, walking, cycling, and bird watching.
  • Melbourne Pool: This tranquil pool is perfect for a refreshing swim on a hot day or a quiet picnic by the water.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Melbourne

Melbourne boasts several beautiful hiking and biking routes that offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Here are a few:

  • The Melbourne Pool Walk: This 1.5-mile circular route takes hikers through beautiful woodlands and past the tranquil Melbourne Pool.
  • The Cloud Trail: This scenic 17-mile cycling and walking route connects Derby to Worthington and offers stunning views of the Trent Valley.
  • Ashby Woulds Heritage Trail: This 4.5-mile trail offers scenic views of the Ashby Woulds and passes through the historic village of Ticknall.

Best Things to Do in Melbourne: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of fun activities and tours to do in Melbourne. Here are some suggestions:

  • Melbourne Food Tour: Take a food tour of Melbourne and sample some of the town’s best local cuisine.
  • Melbourne Ghost Walk: Explore the town’s spooky history on this guided ghost walk.
  • Melbourne Secret Gardens Tour: Discover the hidden gardens of Melbourne on this guided walking tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Melbourne

Here is a week-long itinerary to explore the town’s history, culture and natural beauty:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Melbourne Hall and Gardens
Day 2 Take a hike along the Cloud Trail
Day 3 Explore the town’s historic sites: St Michael’s Church and Thomas Cook Memorial Cottage
Day 4 Visit Staunton Harold Reservoir and enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing and birdwatching
Day 5 Take a food tour of Melbourne
Day 6 Visit Calke Abbey and Deer Park
Day 7 Relax and take a dip in Melbourne Pool

Food and Drink Scene of Melbourne

Melbourne has a thriving food and drink scene that offers something for everyone. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bakewell Pudding: This local dessert is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. It’s a delicious combination of pastry, jam, and almonds.
  • Derbyshire Oatcakes: These savory pancakes made with oats, flour, and milk are a staple of Derbyshire cuisine and are usually served with bacon and cheese.
  • Melton Mowbray Pork Pies: These small pork pies are a delicious, portable snack and are perfect for a picnic or a day out.

Local Beverages

  • Thornbridge Brewery Beers: This award-winning brewery produces some of the best beers in the region and offers guided tours and tastings.
  • Wincle Brewery Ales: This small, family-owned brewery produces delicious craft ales using locally sourced ingredients.

Where to Stay in Melbourne: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Melbourne offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget. Here are a few suggestions:

  • The Coach House: This charming guesthouse is located in the heart of Melbourne and offers comfortable rooms and delicious breakfasts.
  • The Crewe and Harpur: This historic hotel offers cozy rooms, a restaurant, and a pub.
  • YHA National Forest: This hostel is located in a beautifully restored Georgian mansion and offers a range of rooms and dorms.

What to Buy in Melbourne: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Melbourne has several shops and markets that sell unique souvenirs and local products. Here are a few ideas:

  • Melbourne Antiques Centre: This large antiques center offers a range of vintage and antique items to browse and buy.
  • The Melbourne Cheese Shop: This artisanal cheese shop sells a variety of locally produced cheeses that make perfect gifts.
  • Wayne Fleet Butchers: This traditional butcher shop offers a range of locally sourced meats, including the famous Melton Mowbray pork pies.

Local Culture and Customs of Melbourne

Melbourne is a charming, small town that takes pride in its unique heritage and traditions. Visitors should keep in mind the following local customs:

  • Punctuality is important, so it’s always best to arrive on time for appointments.
  • Locals take their tea very seriously, and it’s a good idea to take tea breaks in the afternoon.
  • The traditional greeting in Melbourne is a friendly “Hello” or “Alright”.

Best Time to Visit Melbourne

The best time to visit Melbourne is in the summer months (June-August), when the weather is mild, and the town is bustling with activity. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, then spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November) are also good times to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Melbourne

Here are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Melbourne:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Explore the town’s rich history and culture.
  • Take advantage of the outdoor activities and scenic views.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Be disrespectful to local customs and traditions.
  • Be rude or aggressive towards locals or other visitors.

Safety and Health

Melbourne is a safe town with low crime rates. However, visitors should take the usual precautions to keep their belongings safe. It’s also a good idea to have travel insurance before visiting.

Safety in Melbourne

  • Keep your belongings with you at all times.
  • Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night.

Health in Melbourne

  • The town has several medical clinics and a hospital in the nearby city of Derby.
  • The tap water is safe to drink.

Getting to Melbourne: Transportation Options and Logistics

Melbourne is well-connected to the rest of the United Kingdom through several transportation options.

Airports Near Melbourne

  • East Midlands Airport (EMA): This airport is located 15 miles from Melbourne and offers flights to several destinations in the UK and abroad.

Bus Stations Near Melbourne

  • Derby Bus Station: This bus station is located 8 miles from Melbourne and has several connections to other towns and cities in the region.

Other Options

  • Train: The nearest train station is in Derby, which has connections to major cities in the UK.
  • Car: Melbourne is easily accessible by car and has several car rental options.

How to Get Around in Melbourne

Melbourne is a small town, and visitors can easily explore it on foot or by bicycle. The town also has several taxi services and a bus service that connects to other towns and villages in the region.

Where to Go Next from Melbourne: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Melbourne is perfectly situated to explore the stunning Peak District National Park, which offers stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Here are a few nearby destinations and excursions to explore:

  • Ashbourne: This charming market town is just a short drive from Melbourne and offers quaint shops and cafes.
  • Matlock Bath: This Victorian spa town offers stunning views and a range of outdoor activities.
  • Chatsworth House: This magnificent stately home is located in the heart of the Peak District and is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Melbourne is a charming, picturesque town that offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. From historical sites and outdoor adventures to delicious cuisine and local culture, Melbourne is a perfect destination for anyone looking to explore the beautiful region of East Midlands.

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