Best Places for Autumn Family Photoshoots in Derbyshire (and Beyond)

Autumn might just be my favourite season for family shoots. The colours, the cosy layers, the excuse to kick through leaves. Derbyshire and the surrounding counties are full of beautiful spots for an autumn session.

Here are some of my favourites:

P.S Are you looking for some inspiration? I’ve written a blog titled ‘10 Activities to Do During Your Family Photoshoot Outdoors’… go check it out!

1. Calke Abbey & Parkland

Calke Abbey is full of atmosphere, with crumbling walls, ancient trees, and winding woodland paths. The parkland transforms in autumn, with golden leaves carpeting the ground and strong backdrops of red and amber trees. Park in Ticknall and walk in the main gates, the forestry before you get to the paid entrance is more than enough space!

Family tip: Pack a flask of hot chocolate or warm squash. A mid-session drink break gives children a reset and often leads to some of the sweetest, most natural photos.

Access and amenities: National Trust entry fee applies for non-members. Parking, toilets, and a café are available.

Address for SEO: Calke Abbey, Ticknall, Derby, DE73 7LE

2. Foxley Wood

Foxley Wood is a Woodland Trust site and completely free to access. This hidden gem is full of golden leaves in autumn, winding paths, and peaceful clearings. It feels intimate and easygoing, perfect for families wanting a relaxed session close to Derby.

Family tip: Let the kids choose one small toy or prop to bring along. A wooden airplane, a favourite teddy, or even a leaf crown they make on the spot can add personality to your photos.

Access and amenities: Free entry. Limited parking nearby. No on-site facilities so come prepared.

Address for SEO: Foxley Wood, Kedleston Road, Derby, DE22 2HB

3. Hardwick Hall & Estate

Hardwick’s grand estate grounds are surrounded by woodland walks and mature trees that turn the most incredible shades in autumn. There is plenty of space for children to explore, and lots of little tucked away paths.

Family tip: For variety, start the session in slightly smarter clothes (shirts, dresses with tights) and then switch into cosy jumpers and joggers halfway through. Easy layers work best when you’re changing in the middle of a forest.

Access and amenities: National Trust entry fee applies for non-members. Car parking, toilets, and a café are available.

Address for SEO: Hardwick Hall, Doe Lea, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S44 5QJ

4. Longshaw Estate & Padley Gorge

This is a dream for families who love adventure. Longshaw Estate is stunning and the gorge has streams, boulders, and mossy woodland, a little bit wild and very photogenic in autumn.

Family tip: Plan to play a simple chasing game. Tag, follow the leader, or running races down a safe path always result in laughter filled images.

Access and amenities: National Trust estate but with public footpaths through much of the land. Pay and display parking. Toilets and café at Longshaw Visitor Centre.

Address for SEO: Longshaw Estate, Sheffield, S11 7TZ

5. Lea Wood, Lower Derwent Valley

A hidden gem, Lea Wood is peaceful and full of character. It is ancient woodland, which means tall trees, twisting branches, and a real enchanted forest feeling when the light comes through the leaves.

Family tip: Think about timing your session for later in the afternoon. The low autumn light filtering through these tall trees creates a magical glow that is worth waiting for.

Access and amenities: Free entry. Small parking area nearby. No facilities on site.

Address for SEO: Lea Wood, Lea Bridge, Matlock, Derbyshire, DE4 5AA

6. Cannock Chase

A little further out, but worth it. Cannock Chase is a mix of heathland, pine forest, and winding tracks. The woodland here catches the light beautifully, and the variety of textures makes every corner photogenic.

Family tip: Build in a short walk between photo spots. It gives children a chance to reset, and the little in between moments often become some of the best photos.

Access and amenities: Free entry. Multiple car parks across the Chase. Toilets and cafés at visitor centres.

Address for SEO: Cannock Chase AONB, Marquis Drive, Hednesford, Cannock, WS12 4PW

7. Sherwood Pines

Known for its towering trees and wide open forest tracks, Sherwood Pines is especially beautiful in autumn. The scale of the trees gives photos a magical, almost cinematic backdrop.

Family tip: Bring along a bag of simple nature treasure hunt cards. Spot a red leaf, find a feather, look for a pinecone. It keeps little ones engaged and gives you relaxed, candid moments.

Access and amenities: Forestry England site. Pay and display parking. Visitor centre with toilets, café, and children’s play areas.

Address for SEO: Sherwood Pines Forest Park, Kings Clipstone, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, NG21 9JL

✨ Autumn is such a fleeting season, but it is one of the most beautiful times to capture your family.

If you would like to chat about booking your own autumn shoot in one of these spots (or any other!), get in touch here, or read more about my Derby family photographer style & approach here.