A site 330 million years in the making...

We are the
National Stone Centre

An educational family day out exploring the wonders of geology and how the world around was formed.

 
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About Us

Visiting Us

What you can expect

Just 30 minutes north of Derby in the Derbyshire Dales, on the edge of the Peak District and easily accessible from the High Peak trail.

The National Stone Centre is a 40-acre site of natural landscape to explore. Open all year round and free to access.

Activities for the family include geo-trails to find fossils, gem-panning and a children's playground.

There is an onsite cafe for welcome refreshments and a Rock Shop with interesting objects that can be purchased as a memento of your visit.

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What's on at the NSC

There is always a warm welcome at the NSC. Keep an eye out for upcoming events, activities and special promotions.

To find out more information about each event, click the '+' or anywhere on the event listing tile.

Reset Wellness Treatment

Group Wellness Inner Strength Workshop: 7th November

If you are interested in learning about:
Astronomy and the Cosmos Evolution - where you came from, how we are all linked to everything within the living world and how you can apply this to help you cope in everyday life, this workshop is for you.

We will delve into our subjects, and find new
ways of approaching life's ups and downs by discussing evolution, the cosmos, and what it means to be Human through a series practical and theoretical sessions.

The session will be run on Saturday 7th November at Marquee located behind the Discovery Centre.

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Family fossil trails (Halloween) Website Banner

Family Fossil Trails: 26th - 31st October

Come and join one of our insightful and educational family fossil trails!

Led by Viv Smith, NSC Volunteer who holds wealth of knowledge and insights into the natural geology of the site as you explore the trail and its viewpoints.

Trails leave hourly from the Rock Shop.

Children go free
£4.00 per adult

Under 16s must be accompanied
Maximum 15 per group

Bugs n Bones Website Banner

Bugs & Bones: 26th, 28th & 30th October

Come and join Viv and Kirsty for critter and skeleton fun!

Tickets are available from the Rock Shop. Please purchase your ticket first before taking part.

Craft activities - £5.00 per child

Craft activities PLUS Gem Panning - £8.00 per child

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Schools, Groups and Services

Marquee Hire

Marquee Hire

Our on-site marquee is available to hire for a wide range of occasions, including birthday parties, group bookings of up to 40 people, wakes, workshops, and walking or cycling groups.

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NSC is a popular venue for school visits web page image-1

School Visits

We're proud to offer a variety of engaging and interactive educational activities for students and children.
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A dry stone wall.

Craft Courses

For those looking to expand their interest in stone as a material, we offer regular courses in Dry Stone Walling and Stone Carving. Both are ideal for beginners.
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Group of people sat on wide steps at different levels smiling for the camera.

Volunteering

The Stone Centre is a charity and dependent on a team of passionate volunteers and public donations. 

We're always on the lookout for volunteers to help in the following areas:

• Grounds maintenance
• School visits
• Rock Shop cashier
• Events support

If you feel like you could help in any of these areas, please get in touch with us today.

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