Melbourne is a market town of some antiquity and character, located in the bottom corner of South Derbyshire close to the border with Leicestershire in the heart of Middle England and the southernmost point of the Peak District.
Melbourne lies approximately 8 miles from the county capital of Derby and about half an hour’s drive from East Midland’s airport.
Although occupying a rural setting, surrounded by rich pasture and farmland, Melbourne is readily accessible by a network of main roads and motorways including the A42/M42, M1, A50 and A38.
Castle Donington race track is only a few minutes away from Melbourne, but for culture and heritage Calke Abbey and Staunton Harold Hall are only 3 miles distance.
St Michael & St Mary’s is the Parish Church in Melbourne. Stated by Pevsner as being “one of the most ambitious Norman parish churches of England”, it is referred to by locals as the ‘Cathedral in Miniature’.
Melbourne contains shops, pubs and a school but it is also known for its spectacular Hall – Melbourne Hall opens its doors to the public in August and its gardens from April until September. Although the present building dates back in parts to the 16th and early 17th centuries, Melbourne Hall was practically rebuilt in the early 18th century. However, Melbourne was originally the medieval residence of the Bishops of Carlisle.
Melbourne Castle stood at the centre of the medieval village and was built by Thomas, Earl of Lancaster. However it was dismantled in 1460 and all that is left now is a fragment of wall and references in the nearby Castle Mills, Castle Farm and Castle Square.