If you’re staying with us at the Hannah’s Hope Respite Lodge, you’re in a great spot to take a relaxing respite break. This corner of South Derbyshire offers a mix of water side walks, good pubs, wildlife and easy day trips that keep everyone happy without spending hours in the car.
Here’s our guide to making the most of your stay.
Life around the Marina
Mercia Marina itself is a destination, not just a place to sleep. It’s one of the largest inland marinas in Europe, and there’s plenty to do right on your doorstep.
A gentle stroll around the marina is a must. Its flat, scenic and ideal for spotting wildlife or watching boats come and go. Teenagers and young adults tend to enjoy the freedom of wandering between the shops and cafes, while adults will appreciate the relaxed pace and waterside views.
For something a little different, you can hop on a canal boat trip along the Trent & Mersey Canal. Trips range from short scenic cruise tot longer journeys towards Stenson Lock, making it an easy low effort activity that still feels special.
When its time or food or coffee, you’re spoilt of choice:
- The Beetroot Tree has a wide range of coffee and cake options, plus wonderful ice cream flavours.
- Boat Street Cafe offer a query floating cafe experience and canal trips.
- Willow Tree Tea Room is perfect for cake, coffee and a brother with a view.
- The Marina also has small independent shops that are fun to browse without feeling touristy.
Walk, Wildlife & Fresh Air
Just a short walk or cycle away Willington Wetlands Nature Reserve, a peaceful spot for stretching your legs and spotting birds, its ideal if your family enjoys nature without committing to a full hike.
You can also follow the canal towpaths in either direction from the marina, these are great for gentle walks, cycling or simply wandering until you find a bench or pub.
Local Pub worth a visit
Speaking of pubs, one of Willingtons strengths is its choice of welcoming village pubs, perfect for an easy lunch, a relaxed dinner or an evening drink.
- The Dragon – A canal side favourite with a proper pub atmosphere, good food, and a beer garden, ideal after a walk.
- The Green Man– A friendly village pub serving classic pub grub in the heart of Willlington.
- The Rising Sun – another classic village pub great for stopping by for a drink post walk.
Willington also has Aangan, an Authentic Indian & Nepalese restaurant with amazing food. Plus a great local village chippy.
Easy Day Trips (30-90 mins away)
One of the best things about staying here is how many great day trips are within easy reach.
Nature & Outdoors
- Peak District National Park – perfect for scenic walks, viewpoints, waterfalls and picturesque villages.
- Foremark Reservoir – a quieter option for walking, picnics and birdwatching.
- Elvaston Castle Country Park – beautiful ground, woodland paths and plenty of space to explore.
History & Culture
- Calke Abbey – a national trust stately home with vast parkland.
- Kedleston Hall – impressive architecture, landscaped grounds and a good cafe
- Bolsover Castle – dramatic, atmospheric and surprisingly fun for teenagers and young adults.
- Cromford Mills – a world heritage site and a great way to explore the story of the industrial revolution
Animal & Family Fun
- Peak Wildlife Park – a real highlight for families with rescued animals and walk-through enclosures.
- Matlock Farm Park – ideal if you’re travelling with a mix of ages
- Matlock Bath Aquarium and Arcades – a nostalgic, slightly quirky stop that works well on a raining day.
Caves & Adventure
- Pooles Cavern or Treak Cliff Cavern – fascinating guided tours underground.
- Go Ape (Buxton) – a brilliant option for thrill-seeking teen and young adults.
City Centre
Derby City Centre is less than a 15 min car drive away, plus there is a bus stop on the main road outside the marina that goes to the city centre bus station.
Derby city hosts lots of shopping in the Derbion Centre, museums, restaurants and cafes. Plus family friendly activities like bowling, mini golf, cinema, theatre & much more!
A few planning tips
- For a relaxed day: Marina walk > cafe or lunch > pub dinner in Willington
- For a full day out: Pick one. Big attraction (peaks, cake abbey or a wildlife park) and finish back at a local pub
- For bad wether: Museums in derby, Cromford mills or Matlock bath aquarium are solid backups.
- For balance: Mix active days with slower marina or canal days – it keeps everyone happier.