The Peak District boasts some of the most beautiful scenery in England, such as the limestone ravines in the White Peaks Estate and the heather-clad moores of Kinder. The Peak District is a national park that everyone will fall in love with.
As well as being home to striking vistas, the area is rich in history with many stately homes such as the magnificent Chatsworth House with its splendid gardens. There are endless reasons why it’s a top destination on everyone’s England itinerary!
Whatever your interests, there really is something for everyone in the Peak District.
About The Peak District
Covering an area of 1,440 square kilometres, the Peak District is a national park, a protected area of outstanding natural beauty. Many of the historic buildings and the White Peaks Estate in the south of the Peak District are owned and operated by The National Trust.
The main attractions in the Peak District include picnics, scenic walks, hikes and climbing as well as visiting historic buildings and gardens and exploring charming villages and towns.
I often like to pair walking in the beautiful countryside with exploring a local town or village and visiting one of the many tea rooms and pubs for something to eat and drink.
Where Exactly is The Peak District?
The Peak District is located in central England, mostly in north Derbyshire but also extending into parts of Cheshire, Staffordshire, and South Yorkshire.
The Peak District is around 45 miles east of Manchester and 120 miles north of London.
Is The Peak District Worth Visiting?
Yes, the Peak District is worth visiting as it has some of the most diverse landscapes in the UK! These include rolling hills, deep limestone valleys and plateaus. There are caves to explore, hills to climb, rivers to paddle in, villages to wander and much more!
The only real downside of the Peak District is its popularity as it can get very busy at peak times. For the most popular attractions I would recommend visiting outside of peak times such as school holidays and weekends. Or if you must visit at those times, arrive early to ensure you find parking.
7 Best Things to do in The Peak District
There are hundreds of things to do and see in the Peak District but to get you started, I’ve shared some of my favourite things below along with local tips to ensure your visit goes smoothly.
As I mentioned earlier, some of the most popular attractions can get really busy at peak times so I’ve also included a few hidden gems which are typically much quieter.
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1. Explore Thor’s Cave
Located in the White Peaks area of the Peak District National Park, Thor’s Cave is a mystical cave which has been used as a shelter by humans since mediaeval times.
The history of the cave dates back over 360 million years ago when the Peak District was a shallow reef and Thor’s Cave was underwater. The Cave itself was formed around 2 million years ago when water freezing and thawing caused the cave to form.
The shortest hiking route to Thor’s cave takes about 1 hour by foot. Try to visit in dry weather as the entrance to the cave can become slippery during wet periods. It is a little bit of a scalable to get inside so make sure to wear appropriate footwear if you’re planning to go inside.
Local tips
There is no food or toilet facilities at the cave. So, I’d recommend planning ahead and taking some sandwiches and water. There’s also no phone signal so download an offline map for the walking route.
2. Go for a Walk Along the Monsal Trail
Following the path of a former railway, the Monsal Trail is an extremely popular walking and cycling route.
The trail spans 14km and passes through some of the most beautiful scenery in the Peak District. Some of the highlights include:
The Monsal Head Viaduct is an impressive bridge-like structure with a series of arches which previously carried trains over the Wye Valley.
Just after the Monsal Head Viaduct is the longest tunnel on the Monsal trail known as the Headstone Tunnel. This tunnel is 490m long and travelling through it is quite a surreal experience with its distinctive lighting and echoey sounds.
Just off the Monsal trail, near Miller’s Dale is a hidden gem known as the Chee Dale stepping stones. There are actually two separate sets of stepping stones allowing walkers to pass over the River Wye at points where the overhanging limestone cliffs would otherwise make it unpassable.
The stepping Stones are great fun – just try to visit during a dry spell as the walk to them can get very muddy in wet weather. Plus, during periods of heavy rainfall the stones can become submerged.
Local tips
The Monsal trail is great for families with kids, and there are plenty of amenities along the way such as toilets, cafes and picnic spots. For those planning a family trip, the Monsal trail is one of the top things to do in the Peak District UK. You’ll even find a play area at Hassop Station.
3. Visit Chatsworth House and Gardens
One of England’s most famous country houses and a jewel of the Peak District, Chatsworth House makes for an unforgettable visit.
The house is currently the seat of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire and one of the finest examples of English Baroque architecture.
One of my favourite things about visiting Chatsworth is the amazing artwork on display in the house which dates back 4,000 years including Roman and Egyptian sculptures.
There are over 25 rooms to explore in the house including the splendid painted hall, grand state rooms and fascinating sculpture gallery.
The 105-arce garden at Chatsworth is just as impressive as the house itself with waterworks, sculptures and Victorian rock gardens. You can explore at your leisure or pre-book onto an estate walk where an expert guide will take you through the most popular parts of the estate.
If you’re anything like me, you’ll fancy something to eat after exploring the house and the great news is Chatsworth has three options. Carriage House Cafe which is great value. Cavendish Restaurant which is a more upmarket place and finally the Estate Farm Shop Cafe where you can sample the items for sale in the shop.
There is a fantastic estate farm shop where you can pick up local produce, much of which has been produced on the Chatsworth estate. The shop includes meat and fish, handmade pastries and bread and craft ales.
If you book your tickets through their website, you receive free car parking.
Plus, if you’ve read Pride and Prejudice and watched the 2005 film adaptation, you’ll recognize the estate as the one where Mr. Darcy lived.
Local tips
There are always lots of events at Chatsworth which you can find on their website. These include Estate walks, Christmas tours and a lamb feeding experience.
4. Visit Bakewell and Enjoy a Bakewell Pudding
In the heart of the Peak District, on the banks of the River Wye, sits a charming market town called Bakewell. Bakewell is famous as the home of the Bakewell pudding – a delicious dessert made from puff pastry, jam, and almond filling.
Bakewall is a great place to visit for food and drinks after going on one of the local walks. Due to its location at the start of the Monsal trail, I usually visit the town before or after walking or cycling the trail
The Rutland Arms does a fantastic afternoon tea which requires pre-booking. Alternatively, if you fancy a pint or pub lunch, there’s also no less than 9 pubs in the centre!
You can’t really visit Bakewell without trying their delicious bakewell puddings! There are lots of bakeries selling the puddings along with lots of other sweet treats.
I’d recommended visiting All Saints Church, one of the finest mediaeval parish churches in England. The Church is packed full of historical features and the carved door is something to behold.
There is an outdoor market every Monday with lots of local produce on sale at great prices.
If you’re a history buff then I’d recommend the Old House Museum which is located in a tudor house.
Bakewell is within walking distance of the Chatsworth Estate. This makes for a great walk that takes you through lovely woodland.
Local tips
Parking in the centre especially at peak times such as weekends and school holidays can be challenging. I’d recommend using the car park next to the Agricultural Business Centre instead and walking into the centre from there. Also, be sure to check opening times of the bakeries, as they vary and aren’t open every day.
5. Walk Over the Dovedale Stepping Stones
Dovedale stepping Stones have been famous ever since Victorian times and it’s little wonder given their incredibly beautiful location in Dovedale valley. The stepping stones cross over the River Dove and draw the crowds on hot summer days.
I enjoy the 3 hour circular walk from the stepping stones to Milldale village which, unlike the stepping stones, is a real hidden gem which I’ll cover in more detail below. However, many visitors simply enjoy a short 5 minute walk to the stepping stones from the carpark where they paddle in the River Dove and picnic on the banks.
Another great walk is up Thorpe Cloud which is an isolated limestone hill which overlooks the stepping stones. On the summit of the hill, you are rewarded with panoramic views across the Dovedale valley over to Bunster hill on the other side of the river.
During the summer months there is an ice cream stand at the carpark which sells other drinks and snacks too as well as great little certificates for children certifying they have crossed the stepping stones or climbed Thorpe Cloud.
Local tips
The stepping stones can get really busy at peak times, such as school holidays and sunny weekends. If you must visit at a peak time, I’d recommend arriving at the main car park before 9 am to ensure parking is available. You can also consider parking at Ilam park, and walking to Dovedale from there. Whilst there are toilets at the Dovedale car park they require coins to enter. So, be sure to take some loose change.
6. Explore Milldale Village
Very few of the visitors to Dovedale stepping stones make it to the other end of the valley which takes around 1.5 hours. However, for the small numbers that do there is an incredible hidden gem waiting for them. The stone village of Milldale is arguably the most beautiful village in the Peak District.
Milldale village is accessed via a small former packhorse bridge called Viator bridge. During the warmer months the village has a small takeaway cafe called Polly’s Cafe, which serves hot drinks and snacks.
It’s a great place to reward yourself for the walk, with some tea and ice cream. Then sit by the water and watch the ducks.
There is a National Trust information barn in the village where you can learn more about the history of Milldale.
Local tips
There are toilets and also a water refilling station which comes in handy after the 1.5 hour walk. Whilst it is possible to drive directly to Milldale and park just inside the village, the walk from Dovedale Stepping Stones is the best way to visit the village as there are so many great points of interest along the way such as Tissington Spires and Reynard’s Cave.
7. Hike to Lud’s Church
Near the better known Roaches Trial is a hidden gem called Lud’s Church. This mysterious landmark is hidden within dense forests, and is steeped in history. Lud’s Church is in fact a rock chasm and not actually a church. It was however used as one in the past.
In the early 1400’s it is said to have been used as a secret place to worship for Lollards who were prosecuted for their beliefs. The name ‘lud’ comes from Walter de Lud Auk who was taken captive when their church was raided. The ravine is said to be haunted by his daughter ‘Lady Lud’ to this day.
Prior to the Lollards, it’s believed that the Pagans used Lud’s Church as a place of worship and it may have even been used by Robin Hood as a place to seek refuge.
Lud’s Church can be accessed via a number of walks with the most popular starting point being Gradbach or it can be combined with the longer 12.4km Roaches walk.
Local tips
The dark chasm gets very muddy if there has been any strong rainfall recently. There are planks which make crossing possible in muddy conditions but it’s much easier to visit in dry spells. At times of extremely wet weather the amount of mud can make it unpassable.
More Things to do in the Peak District UK
Explore Buxton
Buxton is a thermal spa town has been attracting visitors for millennia! The Natural Mineral Baths date to Roman times and are one of the top things to do in Buxton.
Other top sights and experiences include taking in a performance at the Buxton Opera House as well as visiting Poole’s Cavern and the Pavilion Gardens. Plus, pop over to the Buxton Crescent, a grand Georgian building that’s reminiscent of the one in Bath. It’s also home to the visitor’s centre.
Climb Solomon’s Temple
While in Buxton, take a walk to Solomon’s Temple. This hilltop tower dates to 1896 and is also known as Grinlow Tower. There are multiple footpaths leading up to the tower, from Temple Fields and Pool’s Cavern.
At the top of Grin Low hill stands this magical tower. You can even climb the 20-foot tall for epic 360-degree views of the Peak District from the top!
Visit Ladybower Reservoir
If you’re looking for more incredible places to visit then add Ladybower Reservoir to your Peak District itinerary! This y-shaped man-made reservoir is located in the Upper Derwent Valley.
Both the dam of the Ladybower Reservoir and its surroundings are picturesque. The Ashopton Viaduct that crosses the reservoir, offers another added scenic attribute. So, it’s no surprise that there’s plenty of cycling and walking routes in the area.
Explore Matlock Bath
If you’re looking for more places to visit in the Peak District head to the village of Matlock Bath. Located in the Derwent Valley, Lord Byron referred to it as ‘Little Switzerland.’
Visitors will find plenty of things to do and there’s something for everyone. Attractions include the riverside gardens, Peak District Mining Museum, and the Great Masson Cavern.
One of the coolest attractions is a cable car that takes you up to Heights of Abraham. Here you’ll find a long list of fun activities. Plus, epic views from the cable car and the hilltop! Another great nearby attraction that’s great for families is the Matlock Farm Park.
Walk or Climb Stanage Edge
Adventure seekers will love visiting Stanage Edge! Known as one of the best spots to rock climb in England, it’s also popular with hikers.
Situated on the Peak District National Park’s eastern edge, Stanage Edge is a section of steep cliffs with pathways running through it too. It’s one of the best places in the Peak District for the incredible sights it holds. There’s everything from stunning views to Robin Hood’s Cave!
Visit Blue John Cavern
Known as one of the most spectacular caverns in Great Britain, visiting the Blue John Cavern is one of the top things to do in the Peak District!
Located in Castleton, the Blue John Cavern is a series of limestone caves. The cavern is home to incredible stalactites and marine fossils. It’s also the site of the rarest mineral in Britain called Blue John. First discovered by Romans around 2000 years ago, the cavern is one of two places where the rare stone exists. The other is Treak Cliff Cavern.
Be sure to pop into their shop where you can buy jewelry made with blue john stone!
Explore Haddon Hall
Another one of the top things to do in the Peak District is visit Haddon Hall. This Bakewell gem is the home of Lord and Lady Edward Manners. More like castle or grand estate!
Haddon Hall was originally built in the 12th century as a Norman fortress. Now you can visit and explore the manor house and the Elizabethan gardens. Enjoy one of the free guided tours to learn more about the incredible grand rooms and painted ceilings. The magnificent terraced gardens are a must!
Hike Mam Tor
Rising up nearly 1700 feet is one of the top places to hike in the Peak District, Mam Tor! The hill near Castleton looks down upon many other smaller hills, which leads to its name, Mother Hill. And from the top you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Castleton and the Hope Valley!
A popular trek is the Mam Tor Circular Walk which takes about 2 hours. The walk is considered moderate, but has steep areas up the Tor, and is 3 miles. Plus, around the base and nearby are a number of caves like Blue John Cavern and Peak Cavern.
Visit Treak Cliff Cavern
Another Castleton attraction is Treak Cliff Cavern. Running a length of 1,000 feet, the limestone cave system is similar to Blue John Cavern. Plus, it also is home to the Blue John mineral.
Inside the cavern you’ll discover picturesque stalagmites, stalactites, and the mineral. They run a variety of experiences that range from self guided tours to polishing activities. In addition, the cavern hosts numerous events. One of the most magical is the Carols by Candlelight that takes place in their Witch’s Cave.
Places to Stay in the Peak District
There are plenty of Peak District places to stay across the region. Plus, there’s something for everyone’s budget and style of travel.
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese Inn – In the village of Castleton in the western end of Hope Valley is one of the best Peak District hotels. The Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese Inn is set in a half-timbered former coaching inn that dates to 1660. It’s a typical village pub with accommodation but full of charm and a fantastic breakfast.
Roseleigh Guest House – The Roseleigh Guest House in Buxton is close to many of the town’s attractions. Plus, it overlooks the Pavilion Gardens. This bed and breakfast is set in a beautiful 1870’s home with Victorian furnishings. There are various rooms available, all of which have a private bath.
Hassop Station Apartment on the Monsal Trail – For those walking the Monsal Trail, this Hassop Station Apartment is perfect! Located right along the trail in Bakewell, its close to many of the top things to do in the Peak District. The apartment features a separate bedroom as well as a kitchen, living room and bathroom.
The Greyhound Inn – Enjoy a historic accommodation that’s close to Thor’s Cave at the Greyhound Inn. Located in the village of Warslow, this 1750 inn offers comfortable rooms with ensuites. Plus, its home to a restaurant and bar.
Conclusion: Why you should visit and the best things to do in the Peak District
There are so many incredible things to do in the Peak District, from lengthy walks to strolling through gorgeous stone villages. These are just a handful of my personal favourites!
Frequently Asked Questions about the Peak District
The Peak District is famous for its stunning landscapes, picturesque towns and scenic walks. It’s also well-known for being home to some of the purest natural mineral water in the world.
3 days in the Peak District is good to see many of the top sights and towns. To explore the Peak District fully, I recommend spending at least a week.
Monsal Head and Monsal Dale are often considered the prettiest part of the Peak District! It’s also one of the most photographed too!
Manchester is the closest city to the Peak District. In addition, the city of Derby is in the heart of the Peak District.
What has been your best experience in the Peak District?
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