peak district day tour

10 beautiful places to visit in the Peak District for the perfect Peak District day trip itinerary

If you are looking to visit the England of storybooks with green rolling hills and quaint villages then planning a Peak District itinerary is a must. There are so many things to do in the Peak District and it can be slightly overwhelming trying to decide what to see first, especially if you only have 1 day. So to help you plan we have put together this guide with some of our favourite scenic locations and attractions, as well as top tips on the best places to see in the Peak District.

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When to plan your 1 day in the Peak District

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If you only have 1 day in the Peak District then summer is the optimum time to visit. The weather is obviously a lot warmer and the days are brighter longer, which is important because you will do a lot of walking. That being said we recommend avoiding visiting in the school holidays (August particularly) as it gets very busy. Weekends particularly in the summer months can be incredibly busy, which isn’t a huge problem because there is plenty of space around the Peak District but it just means parking spaces are limited.

Autumn or spring are also good times to visit, as it isn’t too hot. We actually visit a lot in winter which is nice although a bit cold and blustery. That being said there is nothing like a hike on a cold day and then a visit to the pub to complete your Peak District itinerary. If you visit in winter wrap up warm and make sure you have solid hiking boots as the paths can be quick mucky. It’s worth noting as well that some of the roads in the Peak District can be dangerous and impassable particularly during icy weather or after heavy rain.

Wondering when the  best and worst time to visit England  is as a whole? Here is a helpful guide.

Below is a checklist of things we think you should bring on your day trip to the Peak District. The weather can be quite temperamental in the Peaks so make sure you are wearing appropriate clothes, including waterproofs. Bring plenty of water and wear sunscreen. Also one thing that we wish we had of brought on our hike was lip balm, as windburn is not our friend!

✓ Waterproof jacket

✓ Comfortable shoes/ hiking boots

✓ Plenty of water

✓ Hiking snacks

✓ Sunglasses

This guide has been put together as a Peak District driving itinerary and is intended to guide you to plan your own day trip to the Peak District. You won’t be able to visit all these sites in 1 day but depending on how you plan you can probably visit a few in the same day. If you are relying on public transport you will probably be only be able to visit 1 site maybe 2 at most. Ideally if time is no issue you probably want to spend at least 2 – 3 days exploring the Peak District. There are so many villages and scenic spots and you will find yourself wanting to stop in between locations.

If you are short on time though 1 day in the Peak District is possible and you will still be able to see a lot if you plan well. A lot of people think that things will be close together in the Peak District, but you can be looking at over an hours drive to get from one place to the other. Roads can also be narrow in places which is another thing to keep in mind when getting from A to B.

If you are wanting to visit more of the Peak District or some of the other incredible national parks in the UK , you will obviously need a lot longer.

If you are trying to decide between the  Lake District or Peak District  here is a handy guide.

Whilst this itinerary specifically caters to those who are driving, you can also plan a Peak District day trip by doing an organised tour. One of the examples below leaves from Manchester , which is a great base.

A number of key spots in the Peak District also have links to public transport particularly the train network. Your best best is to get to Manchester and hop on a train from there.

Here are some of our top tips for planning your day trip to the Peak District

• Plan what you want to see in advance as well as your driving route
• Be prepared to turn back as some roads particularly to more obscure places can be impassible in bad weather
• Bring a jacket as even in the summer it can get cooler in the evenings
• Wear comfortable shoes you will do a lot of walking
• If there is a particular place you want to eat try book this in advance otherwise you might miss out (particularly in summer)
• Be prepared for winding roads, and make sure you fill the car with petrol before you go as you might not always find a petrol station close by.

Driving really is the best way to see the Peak District. Especially of you are doing a Peak District day trip it’s going to be the most economical way to get around. If you are renting a car we have a separate article to with everything you need to know about renting a car in the UK .

• A lot of the roads around the Peak District are narrow so take care when driving
• Don’t feel pressure to do the maximum speed limit. If someone is close behind you pull to the side and let them pass if it is safe to do so
• Listen to the SatNav but also trust your gut. The SatNav directed us down a dirt track which we immediately knew was wrong so we turned around very quickly
• Have a look at the weather conditions before you go, as this will have an impact on the drive.

Best places to visit in the Peak District

Here are some of the best places to visit in the Peak District. This guide includes parks, villages, and hiking spots to give you a real taste of what the area has to offer. So here are some of our favourite things to add to your Peak District itinerary.

Ok so technically Lyme Park is nestled on the edge of the Peak District, but once you take a walk away from the house and garden you will experience the vast landscapes and beauty the Peaks have to offer. The Park is a National Trust site , so you do need to pay for parking and to visit the house. It is worth it though because you will feel like you have walked into an old British drama. Speaking of British drama the reason this is one of the best places to visit in the Peak District is because Pride and Prejudice (the Colin Firth edition) was actually filmed here. And yes that does include the pond scene!

If you venture past the house and gardens you can do one of the walks of the surrounding area, and get an incredible view of Manchester in the distance whilst you are at it.

You probably want to schedule in a good half day at Lyme Park at the very least, especially if you plan to venture out and do a bit of a hike. There is a cafe where you can purchase food and drink, and there are also toilet facilities – basically everything you need to start off on your Peak District itinerary.

Located about a 30 minute drive from Lyme Park is Buxton, or more specifically Poole’s Cavern and Buxton Country Park which sits at the edge of Buxton. Poole’s Cavern is an almost 2 million year old natural limestone cave. For around £15.00 you can book yourself a guided tour of the caves, which is well worth it. The tour lasts about 45 minutes and is really informative. It is recommended that you book tickets in advance to avoid missing out.

We also recommend making some time to do the wooded walk around the caves. About 20 minutes from the cavern you will Solomon’s Temple and some breathtaking views across the high peak.

Again there is paid parking here, and several facilities such as toilets and a cafe to purchase light refreshments. All in all your probably want to spend a couple of hours here, which makes it a great place to stop as part of your Peak District itinerary.

If you decide to visit Buxton one of the best places in the Peak District near here is Chee Dale. It’s essentially a valley in the middle of the Peak District and there is a fantastic circular walking trail here. It’s an easy enough walk with no big hills and some really scenic spots. In fact this is one of our favourite easy Peak District walks .

You will pass through gorgeous greenery, a number of archways, and our favourite the Chee Dale stepping stones . The stepping stones are cool as they are large rocks in the water that have been placed here to help hikers get past.

The best place to park is Millers Dale Car Park and you can do a circular walk in about an hour or so. It isn’t a huge car park so our advice would be to get here early. There are toilet facilities by the car park as well as a cafe, so this one is perfect for a Peak District Day trip if you are also wanting to stop for lunch.

Famous for its Bakewell Tarts – which are incredibly tasty by the way, the market town of Bakewell is another great place to add to your Peak District itinerary. It’s a great place to go for lunch especially if you are visiting Chee Dale as there are a lot of lovely pubs and cafes here. There are also some really cool markets here with fresh produce as well as quirky shops to explore.

For something a little bit different we recommend visiting Lud’s Church. It’s an 18 metre deep chasm caused by a giant landslip. It’s only 100 metres long but it is a really fascinating bit of nature to explore which is what makes it one of the best places in the Peak District. It does get incredibly muddy so do make sure you have appropriate footwear. The walk through and around Lud’s Church isn’t too strenuous either so perfect for anyone that wants to add a chilled out walk to their Peak District itinerary.

Another cool thing about Lud’s Church is the history. It was once a secret place of worship, and is also the source of many myths and legends. Some say that the chasm was actually created by the devil’s fingernail as he scraped parts of the earth.

I should also add this is one of those places that the photos just don’t do it justice and you have to see it for yourself.

Of all the things to do in the Peak District a visit to Castleton has to be our favourite. Castleton is a very picturesque village located in the heart of the Peak District National Park. Here are some of our top things to do in Castleton:

• Visit Peveril Castle
• Visit one of the 4 caverns
• Hike Mam Tor

If all that exploring has you looking for a good feed, you are in luck. There are a number of pubs and cafes selling everything from homemade cakes and hot chocolate to proper British pub food. If you go during peak times or at a weekend we recommend making a pub reservation in advance especially if there is somewhere you desperately want to eat at. There are also a number of quirky shops selling all sorts of trinkets so plan some time to pop inside.

In terms of practicalities there is pay and display parking near the Castleton Visitors Centre which is centrally located. This is probably a place where you want to spend a good few hours, and if you are planning to go on a hike especially up Mam Tor you will need to spend a full day here.

The Dovestone Reservoir is another spectacular place to add to your 1 day Peak District itinerary. It’s located on the western edge of the Peak District and is great especially if you are driving from Manchester as it is quite close. You can do a nice walk around the reservoir, or you can climb one of the hills for some amazing views. It’s quite an easy walk as well compared to other hikes in the Peak District so we recommend this one for beginners.

There is paid parking close to the reservoir, which is handy especially if you are doing a quick stop off. Make sure you bring plenty of water and snacks as there are not a lot of places that sell these, particularly if you are visiting on a summer evening.

You can tell that this is one of the best places to visit in the Peak District because the car park gets incredibly full especially on a weekend.

Another of the best places to visit in the Peak District, particularly if you are into hiking is the Trinnacles. There are a few different hiking paths that you can take to get here, and the walk itself is moderate in terms of intensity. The trinnacle is a group of very unique stones along Dovestone Edge. If you want to do a long hike you can walk here from Dovestones Resevoir, otherwise there are closer spots to park along the road towards Holmfirth.

Take a packed lunch and plenty of water with you on this walk because there are not many food and drink stops around. This is a great Peak District day trip for people who love nature and want to take in some incredible views.

This is one of the best places in the Peak District for hiking. This is especially good if you are wanting to do a Peak District day trip that involves a moderate hike and incredible views. It’s not a hugely popular route, which is nice because at times we felt like we had the place to ourselves completely. This is a bit of a strenuous hike so if you aren’t an experienced hiker, it might not be for you. After heavy rain there are some parts of this hike that are impassable so it’s best done in dry weather. The circuit takes about 4 hours or so. Make sure you pack a lunch and bring decent hiking gear as you may get muddy.

One of the lesser known places to visit in the Peak District has to be the B29 Overexposed Crash Site. I know it sounds incredibly morbid visiting a plane crash site, but this is a really fascinating thing to add to your Peak District Day trip. Located in the hills above Glossop this is where you will find the wreckage of a U.S. Air Force bomber that crashed here in 1948. A lot of the wreckage is still scattered here to this day, so it’s a very unique walk.

The best way to get here is via Snake Pass. Parking spaces are few and far between so do get here early. The best way to find the parking spot is to pop the postcode into your SatNav which is SK13 7PQ.

These are just some of the places we have visited but honestly there are so many more incredible places to see and things to do in the Peak District. In all honesty you won’t be able to do everything in 1 day, but that is what return trips are for. If you are lucky enough to live close by like in Manchester then it’s easy to plan a Peak District day trip.

When putting your Peak District itinerary together we recommend maybe sticking to two sites at the most for a day trip. You don’t want to rush things and especially if you are planning on hiking you might spend quite a bit of time in each spot.

Below is a map with all the key places mentioned in this article so you you can see the distance between each one.

Sample Peak District Day trip itinerary

Here are some example Peak District day trip itineraries to help you plan your own trip.

If you want a very relaxed Peak District day trip then we recommend starting by visiting Lyme Park. This National Trust site offers you the chance to walk around and enjoy the beautiful green gardens.

After spending a few hours here you should then drive to either Castleton or Buxton to visit the caverns. Both locations are great for this and they both have some great pubs for a hearty meal after a day filled with exploring.

If you are wanting to do a Peak District day trip and spend some time outdoors without a strenuous hike this is our recommended itinerary.

Start in Chee Dale and do the circular walk via the stepping stones. Head to Bakewell for some lunch before making your way to Lud’s Church for a later afternoon walk.

For those wanting to do a proper hike in the Peak District you probably really only want to choose one location and stick to it.

Dovestones is great for hikes especially if you incorporate The Trinnicle into this. You can do a decent hike out here that will take a good part of a day to complete.

Another great hiking trail is the Crowden and Black Hill Circular. It’s only a few hours but it’s a lovely hike so you will probably stop along the way. You may also want to bring a packed lunch and sit and enjoy it along with the views.

If you are wanting to plan a Peak District day trip that involves some walking, but also an opportunity to explore a village and enjoy a pub dinner then this is our recommendation. Start by visiting the B29 crash site. You will want to get here early enough as parking is limited. It’s not a super long walk which will give you time for some low key exploring afterwards. We then recommend heading to Glossop which is a lovely place to walk around and enjoy some pub grub.

Wondering if you should do a Peak District day trip? Hopefully after reading this post your answer is absolutely! The Peak District is one of our favourite day trip destinations, especially because we live so close in Manchester. It’s such a beautiful place to visit and gives you a chance to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. The rolling hills, incredible lakes, and countryside setting make it the perfect place to get lost, unwind, and just have a great time.

You can be creative with your Peak District itinerary, and it definitely is one of those places you will want to come back to time and time again.

If this guide to the best places in the Peak District has been useful make sure you pin it for later.

If you are looking for some more UK day trip ideas you can check out these articles:

1 day in York

Chester day trip itinerary

Robin Hood’s Bay day trip

1 day in the Lake District

Visiting Portmeirion

Wanderlust and Life is a blog for those that love to travel.

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Idyllic England: Derbyshire & the Peak District 1 day tour

Experience the delights of Derbyshire on this day tour to the Peak District.

Tour Highlights

Castleton - This stunning village shelters in the shadow of the Shivering Mountain.

Monsal Headstone Viaduct - A landmark viaduct and walking route that spans the serene Monsal Dale.

Bakewell - The attractive stone buildings and courtyards attract artists and photographers from around the world.

The Peak District National Park - England's first national park is a beautiful mix of rolling hills and cosy villages.

Peak's Cavern -  Giggle or raise your eyebrows when you discover the nickname of this dark and mysterious cave that was used as a hideout by robbers and outlaws. 

Your journey

This region encapsulates everything everybody loves about England .

There are rolling hills so green that you wonder whether there’s something unusual in the soil, there are rural towns with more quaint cottages than you can count, and caves with tales of robbers and witches.

On this tour, you explore the most fascinating spots in the area of Derbyshire.

You see the gently towering hillocks of the Peak District, experience the traditional streets and treats of Bakewell village, and journey into the natural wonder of Peak's Cavern.

Join this tour and experience England in miniature.

Tour Details

Students, seniors over 60, and children between 5 and 15 (unfortunately, we don't carry children under 5 years old).

• Pack your waterproof clothing 
• Peak's Cavern is wet and muddy at times so please wear sturdy shoes
• Some attraction tickets can be purchased in advance when you book your tour. You’ll have the option to add at check-out. Other attractions will not be available to book beforehand, instead you can purchase those while on tour.
• Transportation by a 16 seat Mercedes mini-coach
• Air conditioning as standard
• The stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guide
• Attraction entry tickets

It’s time to leave the big city behind and travel to the Peak District; the region of wild peaks, rugged moorlands, and pretty time-worn cottages.

Your first stop is in Eyam, a village that faced unimaginable adversity when the plague broke out here in 1666. Moved by the story of solidarity and strength, you travel onwards to Bakewell.

Not only is this town delicious to look at, but it’s also the home of one of England’s most famous desserts, the Bakewell Pudding.

With life feeling a bit sweeter now, you venture to Monsal Head. There’s an old rail line viaduct that emerges from green hills to create a unique vista. It’s a gorgeous structure with an impressive history.

We’ve got another treat for you, a stop in Castleton. This quaint old town attracts travellers from all over the world for its traditional English charm. You can wander the streets, enjoy a beautiful view up a valley, and learn its history at an insightful information centre. You will also have a chance to go on an optional visit to the Peak’s Cavern. This cave has an outrageous nickname, the largest natural entrance, used to be a hideout for robbers and now it sometimes acts as a concert venue.

After a day of delicious treats, spectacular views, and poignant history, you travel back to Manchester and arrive in the late afternoon.

Do you offer hotel pickups in the departure cities?

The UK and Ireland's historic city centres are full of narrow streets and winding roads. So, to speed up your departure, we only pick up from our central meeting points. What's more is leaving the city using the most direct route also reduces the carbon footprint of our tours.

Is there parking close to the departure point?

We don't recommend bringing your car into the centre of our departure cities. It can be hard to find parking, and there are excellent public transportation services.

When should I get to the departure point?

Arrive 15 minutes before your departure time. Due to waiting restrictions, we can't wait for you if you're late.

What happens if I'm late or miss the tour?

If you're late for your tour, our cancellation policy applies. 100% charges are applicable, and you will not be entitled to a refund or alternative.

What are your cancellation policies?

For one-day tours: You'll receive a full refund if you cancel 24 hours or more before the tour departure

For tours of between two and nine days: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 15 or more days before the tour departure

For tours of 10 or more days: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 21 or more days before the tour departure

For all European packaged tours: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 42 days before the tour departure.

If you cancel inside these notice periods, full charges will apply and no refunds will be issued.

To cancel your booking, email [email protected] as soon as possible. The effective date of cancellation will be the date we receive written confirmation from you.

Click here to view terms and conditions

Can Itineraries change?

Your tour will always follow the itinerary as closely as possible. Your driver-guide will keep you up to date on the road, and we'll try to get in touch about any large changes prior to your departure.

Can I pre-book a specific seat?

Due to logistical reasons, we're unable to let you pre-book a seat on the bus. But our comfortable 16-seat mini-coaches have huge windows. So, you'll always get a good view.

Are there toilets on the bus?

Unfortunately, we have no on-board toilet facilities, but you'll have regular comfort breaks.

How do you cater for people with accessibility needs?

We aim to accommodate everyone. To read more information on how we do this, click here to go to our accessibility guide.

Do you take children on your tours?

We regret we don't carry children under the age of five on our scheduled tours.

You can ask us about the tours we recommend for younger children. And if your child is less than 1.35m tall, you should let us know, so we can provide them with a suitable booster seat.

How much time do I get off the bus?

We want you to enjoy Britain and Ireland. And we believe the best way to do this is to get you off the mini-coach and out exploring. So, we give you plenty of time to take photos, go walking, and explore ancient ruins.

Why do you exclude visitor attractions?

We exclude visitor attractions in your tour price because it lets you travel your way. It means you can pamper yourself with a luxury lunch or skip an attraction whenever you feel like it.

Do we need to bring our own lunch?

You don't need to. We stop in small towns, villages, and rural eateries where you can choose whatever meal pleases both your taste buds and your budget.

Should I tip the driver-guide?

Let's be honest, our driver-guides would never refuse a cheeky bonus. But it's up to you, and the amount is entirely at your discretion.

What about travel insurance?

We advise you take out travel insurance.

What is ABTOT?

You're protected by ABTOT when you chose to let us reserve your accommodation on a multi-day tour. This means you can claim back anything you've paid us if we become bankrupt. Read our terms and conditions for more information.

I have more questions, who can help me?

If you have any more questions, call us on +44(0)131 226 3133, email [email protected] , or check out our full FAQs .

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Peak District Tour

• 4 nights / 3 days
• Independent
• Great British Tours
• 1 week or less

Discover a region of contrasting natural beauty, with moors and dales, rivers, springs and caverns in the Peak District National Park. The area is known and loved by many for its breath-taking views, bustling market towns and pretty villages, historic houses, famous attractions and traditional events, such as the unique Derbyshire custom of Well Dressing.

From the high, moorland plateaus in the north, to the steep-sided, deep dales and rolling green hills in the south of the area, the Peak District has just about any landscape you can imagine in Britain, making it one of the finest areas in the country to explore.

As well as opportunities to enjoy the stunning landscapes, the tour will also visit some of the famous, historic villages that line the valleys of the Peak District.

Tour Highlights

• Explore the beautiful Peak District
• Stay in a fabulous country house hotel
• Visit the renowned Chatsworth House & Estate
• Visit stately & historic houses such as Haddon Hall
• Indulge in some Bakewell Pudding & see the original pudding shop
• Drive the famed roads of Winnats Pass, Snake Pass, Woodhead Pass, Cat & Fiddle Pass & other great driving roads
• Learn about the plague village of Eyam
• Head underground in a boat at Speedwell Cavern
• See the unique Blue John Cavern
• Discover the lovely spa town of Buxton
• See the famous dams of the Upper Derwent Valley
• Cultural delights such as historic castles & churches, ancient towns & villages, & fascinating museums

Arrive anytime after 3pm to check-in to the hotel in Baslow – your base for the next four nights.

Spend the day touring the western part of the Peak District, starting with a visit to Bakewell, famed for the unique and eponymous pudding. Idyllically situated on the banks of the river Wye, the biggest town in the Peak District National Park’s mellow stone buildings, medieval five-arched stone bridge and quaint courtyards are a magnet for painters, photographers and sightseers alike.

Continue to picturesque Ashford, with its much-photographed medieval Sheepwash Bridge, and then past Buxton and over the famed Cat & Fiddle Pass. Then loop north and drive back to Buxton, the spa town famed for its beautiful Georgian and Victorian architecture.

The route then winds back to Eyam, renowned as the Plague Village, and learn more about the story at the museum. It’s then a short drive back to the hotel for dinner.

Explore the northern part of the Peak District with a lovely drive up to Castleton. Visit the Norman ruins of Peveril Castle, or the famous Blue John Cavern, where the semi-precious stone Blue John is found – the only place in the world, or Speedwell Cavern, where there are underground boat trips.

Drive through the gorge of Winnats Pass and past Mam Tor, one of the highest peaks in the area at 517m, to Edale, then loop round to the pretty village of Hope.

Head across Snake Pass and back across the Woodhead Pass and then back to Baslow.

Start the day with a visit to the pretty estate village of Pilsley before enjoying a scenic drive around the southern part of the Peak District. Many of the villages around here were renowned for lead mining.

Visit Haddon Hall, a medieval and Tudor manor house gem with a fine medieval kitchen and Elizabethan long gallery.

Then drive through the gorgeous Chatsworth Estate and visit the sensational Chatsworth House, home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire and home of the Cavendish family since the 1550s.

Return to the hotel.

Depart for home after a hearty, full English breakfast.

Where we'll stay

Located on the Chatsworth House Estate, in the small town of Baslow, The Cavendish Hotel restaurant offers locally-sourced food. The excellent restaurant has won an AA two Rosette Award.

The Cavendish Hotel, originally the famous Peacock, is steeped in history, with perfect views and peaceful surroundings. Throughout the hotel you will find open fires, oak beams, antique furnishings, fresh flowers and friendly staff on hand to make your experience enjoyable.

Indulge in beautiful, well-appointed rooms with a view. All are luxuriously appointed & come with all the features you would expect – crisp linen, fluffy towels & robes – all the little touches that make the difference. Rooms have twin or double beds, private bathrooms with bath & shower.

What's included

• Tour Book – includes a brief history of the region, maps and directions, and a detailed account of everything there is to do, see and visit each day.

Requirements

The Peak District Tour is open to classic, vintage and sports cars of any age. However, the most important requirement is that you take pleasure in motoring through fabulous scenery, deserving of the vehicles we love, relish character hotels and enjoy the company of like-minded travellers.

Price from Tour Book: £120 incl UK P&P

Founded 2003

Since 2003 Classic Travelling has  specialised in driving tours and motoring holidays for classic, vintage, and sports cars of all ages in the UK, Europe, USA and South Africa.

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Plan your next break to the Peak District and Derbyshire and discover a place of wild peaks and rugged moorland with views that stretch forever. A place of chocolate-box villages nestling in gentle countryside, with the prettiest cottages and dogs lazing by the pub fire. Explore country houses, castles and the stateliest of stately homes, and find the most welcoming market towns, with quality independent shops and delicious local food and drink.

This is the home of Britain's original National Park and the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site. A place to refresh and recharge, with adventures to suit everyone from gentle ramblers to adrenaline junkies. Discover hiking, biking and beauty spots galore. Enjoy festival days (whatever the weather), country shows, eccentric traditions and the loudest Bhangra nights. Getting to the Peak District and Derbyshire has never been easier. At the heart of the UK and just 90 minutes by train from London, it's easily accessible from all corners of the UK. You can simply sit back and enjoy the ride. This is a place for new adventures with old friends. A place for surprising discoveries, hidden gems and heart-pumping experiences. A place that has everything.

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Hoe grange gorgeous glamping pods and gypsy….

Go glamping in style with stunning views of the Peak District countryside from your pillow. Spacious ensuite shower and every luxury you need for a…

Chatsworth Farm Shop and Café

Fresh, quality produce from the Chatsworth Estate, tenant farms, Derbyshire suppliers and small food producers.

Heights of Abraham

Take a cable car flight to the Heights of Abraham 60-acre hilltop park, with cavern tours, exhibitions, adventure play and much more.

Weathericks and Bradstone

Two charming 5-star cottages set in beautiful countryside with spectacular views over Carsington Water on the edge of the Peak District National…

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Peak District Holidays welcomes you to a delightful 5 star Holiday Apartment on the edge of the Peak District.

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Ideas & inspiration

Accessible guide: how to spend a day in castleton.

How to spend an accessible day out in Castleton.

Castles, Markets & Spires

Explore the lesser-known North East of Derbyshire, near Chesterfield.

How to spend 48 hours in Bakewell

This itinerary is based in the historic market town of Bakewell, famed for its sweet confection, and includes some Peak District classics!

Travelling by bus

Travelling by train, getting here, closer than you think.

Right at the heart of England, with great public transport links, the Peak District and Derbyshire is easily accessible from across the UK.

• Birmingham Airport
• East Midlands Airport
• Hull Ferry Port
• Harwich Ferry Port

We recommend travelling by public transport wherever possible. Find travel times for getting here by rail below.

2 hours, 3 stops on average

It’s easy to get here from all major road routes in the UK. Find travel times for getting here by road below.

Places to visit

Visit the charming market town of Belper to discover the rich industrial heritage at the centre of the Valley that Changed the World.

Amber Valley

Just a stone's throw from the Peak District, the Amber Valley offers a huge choice of accommodation and things to do as well as mouth-watering…

At the eastern end of the Hope Valley, Hathersage is known as the 'outdoor hub' of the Peak District.

This historic and traditional English town is brimming with heritage and boasts an imposing castle, independent shops and friendly places to eat and…

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10 great walks in the peak district and derbyshire, great days out by bus in the peak district & derbyshire.

Your next adventure is just a bus ride away! Check out these great visitor attractions you can explore by bus...

What's On: Things to do this summer in the Peak District & Derbyshire

There's always so much to do in the Peak District & Derbyshire, this summer is no exception. Read on to discover some of our highlights.

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Peak District Day Out IDEAS – 15+ Ways To Have a Peak District Day Trip!

Categories England , Peak District , U.K

The Peak District is full of attractions, caves, walks, villages, towns and more and you can easily see a lot on a Peak District day out!

In this Peak District travel blog, I’m going to give you lots of ideas for things to do in the Peak District which you can create the perfect day trip to the Peak District out of.

Whether you want to take the family hiking for the first time , you want to see pretty villages, towns and tearooms , keep the kids entertained by visiting caves , or see Polar Bear s (yes really!), you can do this on a Peak District day trip!

Peak District Day Out

Some of these ideas of things to do in the Peak District will take you a full day , others will only take an hour or so , so I have advised the rough length of each and you can then add more things onto your one day Peak District itinerary depending on how long you want your day out to be.

I have also given you ideas of how to pair things together like visiting Speedwell Cavern and the village of Castleton on the same day as hiking Mam Tor because they are all really close together and altogether these things will make a full day out in the Peak District !

You can also use this post if you are spending the weekend in the Peak District or a multiple days because there are so many best places to visit in the Peak District in this list!

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Map of Peak District Days Out

Here is a map and I have detailed all the below ideas for a day out in the Peak District so you can plan your day.

Although the Peak District is relatively small, the roads are very small and windy in places which means it takes awhile to cross the Peak District .

Therefore, I’d recommend picking a particular area of the Peak District to see and visit a few places within that area with one day in the Peak District rather than going back and forth.

Peak District Day Tours

Organised day tours to the Peak District are quite limited unfortunately but there are some options from Manchester if you want to do a day trip to the Peak District with organised transport and a guide:

From Manchester: Derbyshire and Peak District Day Trip

From Manchester: Chatsworth & the Peak District

From Manchester: Peak District & Poole’s Cavern Includes Admission

From London: Chatsworth House Tour

Peak District Day Trip Ideas

So let’s get into how to spend a day in the Peak District.

1. Mam Tor Hike, Nearby Caves & Castleton Village

Time Needed: From 1 hour to 6 hours

Mam Tor is easily the most famous walk and point in the Peak District. Many people think it’s the highest point in the Peak District which isn’t actually true but at 517m this is one of the highest hills and a great hike to do.

Mam Tor Hike

Whether you’re into hiking or not, a walk up Mam Tor can be enjoyed and actually, it’s a perfect walk if you want to get into hiking .

We took my stepsons on a hike in the summer and they really enjoyed it, they found the step incline to the top tough but it’s very do-able for most people .

What I love about hiking Mam Tor is that there are lots of options . We parked at Speedwell Cavern Car Park, walked up the steep hill to the side, across the fields and then up Mam Tor, but you can park in this car park very close to the summit and just take the short (but steep-ish) path to the top.

From here you can continue the walk all the way to the ridge doing a circular walk of Mam Tor like this or you can enjoy the view and head back down the short way you came up.

Caves close to Mam Tor

One of the big reasons Mam Tor is such a great day out in the Peak District is because of the nearby caves and caverns that you can visit.

Blue Johns Cavern , Speedwell Cavern and Trek Cliff Caverns are all ticketed Peak District attractions that offer entertainment and education as you plunge into them.

For ideas for family days out Peak District , one of these is a winner!

Things to do in Castleton

Castleton Village is the closest village to Mam Tor and they are connected by the very impressed Winnets Pass road . Driving this road is a must!

Castleton is small but it’s a good place to get some nice food. I recommend Peveril Tearooms , and you can visit Peveril Castle which will entertain the kids more than the villages pretty buildings.

If you’ve been to the popular show caverns mentioned like Speedwell Cavern and Blue Johns Cavern before, check out Peak Cavern in Castleton Village and Cave Dale .

2. Buxton Town, Pooles Cavern & Solomon’s Temple

Time Needed: 4-6 hours

Buxton is the main and biggest town in the Peak District with lots going on. It’s not as pretty as the villages but the amenities it offers makes up for it and once you are near the Pavilion and park you will be impressed with the Victorian buildings and the park on offer.

Things to do in Buxton

During the school holidays, Buxton puts on lots of events in the park, great for families and days out with the kids in the Peak District .

To add to your day in Buxton, I’d recommend visiting Pooles Cavern just outside the town centre. I took my stepsons here in the summer with my mum and we really enjoyed entering inside the cave, hearing how it was created and looking at the unique features.

Once in the carpark for Pooles Cavern you can walk through the woodland to Solomon’s Temple, this is one of the easy walks in the Peak District I recommend because its a small incline and then opens up into a lovely meadow with Soloman’s Temple at the top which offers views all over Buxton.

3. Buxton Go Ape and Nearby Caves

If you are looking for one of the Peak District activities , there is a Go Ape in Buxton!

I love including an activity like Go Ape in my day out ideas because it gives the day some structure and as the organiser you can let the activity entertain everyone for a few hours instead of you!

For how to spend the day in the Peak District , Go Ape Buxton is located next to Pooles Cavern which I mentioned above in this list of Peak District day out ideas so you could easily take to the high ropes challenge at Go Ape and then book tickets for Pooles Cavern afterwards.

If you want a cheaper day out in the Peak District , after Go Ape instead of spending money on another set of tickets for the Cavern, you could take the walk up to Solomon’s Temple through the woodland next to Go Ape!

Go Ape is just a few minutes from Buxton town where you can play in their park, have a meal and look around the shops.

4. The Heights of Abraham

Time Needed: 4-7 hours

For a full day out in the Peak District full of activities and attractions in one place, head to the The Heights of Abraham .

The Heights of Abraham is a 60-acre Hilltop Estate which you access via a cable car from the car park! Once at the top there are showcases to visit on guided tours, theatre and exhibition rooms to learn about the past of this area, play areas, walking paths and picnic areas. Dogs are welcome too.

This is one of the family days out in the Peak District I highly recommend and being located in Matlock Bath in the very south of the Peak District it is easily accessible from Birmingham, Leicester, Nottingham and Derby as well as Manchester .

5. Peak Wildlife Farm & Thor’s Cave

I recently visited Peak Wildlife Farm with my stepsons and mum and we really enjoyed it and recommend it for a Peak District day out.

The best way to describe it is being in-between a zoo and a petting farm . It’s a unique wildlife attraction that combines conservation, education, and entertainment.

This is another one of the great family days out in the Peak District especially if your children like animals as you can get close to many of them here with petting opportunities too.

One of the most unique things about Peak Wildlife Park right now though is that they have Polar Bears ! Seeing Polar Bears within the Peak District is a bit strange I admit but you can read here what the initiative is for them and the reason for their relocation.

It was raining when we visited so we visited pretty quickly and the boys were a bit too old to enjoy the play area but for younger children on a nice day, you could easily spend a few hours here and tickets are quite pricey so you want to stay for awhile to get your monies worth!

Places near Peak Wildlife Park

Thor Cave is one of the top places to visit in the Peak District and another one of my recommended easy walks in the Peak District,

Thor Cave is just a 20 minute drive from Peak Wildlife Park so they are great to visit together in one day in the Peak District.

Here’s how to visit Thor’s Cave including where to park and how to do the walk.

6. Chatsworth House & Bakewell

Time Needed: 3-5 hours

Many of these suggestion for Peak District days out have been centred around families with children but this idea is a good one for couples , friends and even on your own.

Visit a stately home and pretty village in one day in the Peak District by visiting Chatsworth House and Bakewell .

Chatsworth House is a stately home in the heart of the Peak District and is open for visitors to see its house, gardens, farmyard and playground.

What I like is that Chatsworth offers different ticket options so if you don’t have much time you can buy the gardens only ticket which is cheaper than the ticket that includes house entry.

Chatsworth is great if you want a typically English day out and to live out your Pride and Prejudice moments as it was the filming location of the 2005 production of Pride and Prejudice !

Things to do in Bakewell

15 minutes away from Chatsworth House is the pretty market town of Bakewell. Here you’ll find lots of independent shops and bakeries selling, yes, Bakewell Tart!

Bakewell is small so there are only a few things to do in Bakewell , it’s mostly enjoyed at a slow pace wandering around. if you haven’t had enough of stately homes after visiting Chatsworth House, Haddon Hall is another one of the places you can visit.

Looking for a Peak District day tour from Manchester? Here are some options:

7. Stanage Edge, Bamford Edge & Hathersage Village

Time Needed: 3-8 hours

Stanage Edge and Bamford Edge are 2 of the iconic places to visit in the Peak District because they offer great photo opportunities and views of the hills and Ladybower Reservoir below.

There’s a perfect 11 mile circular route than takes you up to Bamford Edge and Stanage Edge starting and ending ay Cutthroat Bridge Car Park (what a name, I know!). Here’s a great blog post on how to do the walk !

If you want a bit of a shorter walk in the Peak District , you can stick to Stanage Edge only and follow this 7.7km Stanage Edge walk which won’t disappoint!

Whilst in this area, I also recommend visiting Hathersage village which is very close by because it is one of the prettiest villages in the Peak District and a great base to take a walk from.

Things to do in Hathersage

Hathersage is a great village to fuel up for a walk or relax after a walk as it has many restaurants and cafes . Just outside the village is David Mellor Design Cafe which is one of my favourites, as is Hathersage Kitchen .

Hathersage is very unique as it has an outdoor swimming pool open to the public as well as members. If you want to do something different whether it’s a summer swim to cool down or a hot winter outdoor swim , this makes a great day out in the Peak District, especially for children!

Tickets for swimming do go fast and the tickets go on sale every Friday morning for the following week so this is one of the Peak District activities you’ll need to plan in advance.

For a nice walk around Hathersage you can walk by their outdoor swimming pool and then across the village up to the Grave of Little John .

8. Ilam Park National Trust

Time Needed: 2-4 hours

The Peak District is home to a few National Trust sites and these always offer great days out, especially if you have younger children or people who cannot walk as far because they have  designated parking, toilets and cafe facilities  in most and this is true for Ilam Park.

Ilam Park is a National Trust site in the Peak District located close to Derby, Stoke on Trent and Nottingham making it one of the perfect Peak District day trips from these cities where you can enjoy its gardens and woodlands  as well as being in walking distance to the popular areas of  Dovedale and the White Peak .

I recommend Ilam Park as one of my easy Peak District walks and although the easiest walk you can do will be around the  Italian Gardens and Woodland at Ilam Park , it’s worth going a bit further and visiting the  famous Dovedale Stepping Stones  from Ilam Park.

Here is a  step-by-step guide  provided by the National Trust, it is an easy route to follow as it  follows one main path  from the National Trust site to the Stepping Stones and back the same way taking about 30 minutes each way.

9. Lyme Park National Trust

Time Needed: 2-6 hours

On the edge of the Peak District closest to Stockport and Manchester is Lyme Park National Trust .

This is one of the good day trips in the Peak District to make if you want to visit an old Stately home and pretty gardens , as well as go on a good woodland and nature walk all whilst having the facilities of a cafe, shop and designated car park.

Lyme Park offer family friendly activities during the school holidays making it one of the good day trips for families to the Peak District.

I recommend going inside the house but also taking a walk up to the ‘Cage’ on the hill. The kids will love the free-reign of running up there!

After a few hours of exploring the outdoors, you can easily head to one of the nearby villages like Whaley Bridge and Chapel-en-le-Frith for a nice warm meal!

If you live in Manchester check out the National Trust sites in Manchester that we’re lucky to have!

10. Dovestone Reservoir & The Trinnacle

Time Needed: 2-5 hours

Another one of the perfect walks in the Peak District is Dovestone Reservoir and if you want to go further you can add on hiking up to The Trinnacle too,

This is one of my easy Peak District walks because the Reservoir is not too big and it’s a flat, circular walk easy on the legs with minimal navigation required.

Here’s my full guide on how to do Dovestone Reservoir walk along with another guide for how to walk the Trinnacle Trail if you are looking to extend your walk.

Another reason this is a great Peak District day trip is because of its location on the North Western side of the Peak District National Park . Dovestone Reservoir is close to Oldham and North Manchester if you are travelling from this way.

I hope this post has helped you plan your Peak District Day Out with ideas for Peak District Day Trips!

• For more of my Peak District and Northern England posts see:
• 10 EASY Peak District Walks! Short, Flat, Beginner & Child Friendly!
• How To Do Dovestone Reservoir Walk, Easy Circular Walk in Peak District.
• 23+ Fun Family Days Out NEAR Manchester
• 25+ FUN Family Days Out IN Manchester
• 19 BEST Day Trips From Liverpool & Day Tours From Liverpool!
• Full Lake District Day Trip! How to Spend 1 Day in the Lake District!
• 20 TOP Day Trips From Birmingham By Train, Car & Coach!

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Peak District Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: December 3, 2022

Our Peak District Travel Guide includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for one of the most beautiful areas of England. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to the Peak District!

Let’s plan your visit to the Peak District

The beautiful Peak District National Park in the East Midlands of England is a favourite destination for visitors from all over the UK.

Although the bulk of the Peak District is found in northern Derbyshire it spreads into a number of other English counties including Staffordshire, South Yorkshire, Cheshire and Greater Manchester towards the north west.

The Peak District National Park was the first National Park to be established in the UK in 1951. It is divided into the southern area known as the White Peak and the northern area referred to as the Dark Peak.

Both are areas of natural beauty and feature dramatic landscapes, valleys and moorlands, ridges and hills. The White Peak is characterised by areas of limestone and is located primarily in Derbyshire and Staffordshire while the Dark Peak is found to the north and has a wilder and more desolate character.

If you love the outdoors the Peak District is the perfect holiday destination.

What you will find in this complete Peak District Travel Guide

Peak District Map

When is the best time of year to visit the peak district, how much time should i plan to spend in the peak district, what are the very best places to visit in the peak district, how can i get around the peak district, what is the best way to get to the peak district from london, what traditional english foods originate from the peak district, attractions and things to do in the peak district, places to stay in the peak district, books to read about the peak district, enjoy your visit to the peak district.

FAQ’s for visiting the Peak District

The Peak District is a wonderful destination throughout the year though can at times parts can be less accessible due to weather conditions (especially during the cold winter months when snow is common) If you do head there in winter it is perfect for long walks and cosy pubs!

If you visit at the end of August into the first week of September expect to see purple as the heather flowers across the landscape.

You can easily spend a week touring the Peak District and exploring the area by car or on foot if you enjoy hiking.

Book accommodation in a central location in one of the pretty towns and villages such as Bakewell or Matlock and use this as a base for day trips to surrounding areas.

The Peak District is the perfect destination for a weekend break or staycation . Accommodation options include cottages and cabins perfect for a relaxing countryside stay.

To provide a quick snapshot these are my top places to visit and things to do in the Peak District:

• Visit beautiful Chatsworth House and estate home to Lord and Lady Devonshire.
• Sample Bakewell Pudding in the pretty market town of Bakewell
• Take a hike along the Tissington Trail, High Peak Trail or Ridge Walk Mam Tor to Losehill
• Take a trip to the picturesque Dovedale Valley and cross the River Dove using the famous stepping stones
• Visit Cromford Mills the location of the world’s first water powered spinning mill and birthplace of the modern factory system (Arkwright’s Mill) and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Take the cable car from Matlock to the Heights of Abraham for amazing views of the countryside
• Visit Treak Cliff Cavern in Castleton famous for its Blue John Stone

The Peak District is famous for its walking trails to suit all fitness levels and interests from short strolls to longer hikes. Kinder Scout, the Limestone Way, the Bakewell to Chatsworth walking route and the Cromford Mill and Village Walking route are just some of the walks popular in the Peak District.

Public transport is available in the Peak District with buses and trains connecting the larger towns and most popular areas.

In the summer the Hope Valley Explorer (a hop on hop off bus) runs from Edale, Hope, Bamford (change at Sheffield for these train stations) or Chesterfield and Dronfield. (Please note that the bus was cancelled in 2020 but hopefully should make a return soon)

The Peak District National Park is spread across a large part of England so identifying your first destination will influence the best method of transportation.

If the train is your preferred method of transportation to the Peak District I recommend travelling to one of the larger train stations such as Derby, Chesterfield, Buxton, Sheffield or Manchester and picking up a hire car to make the most of your visit to the Peak District.

If you drive from London allow around 3 hours (from central London to Matlock in the heart of the Peak District)

Tours to the Peak District are available from Manchester including:

• Derbyshire and Peak District Day Trip

Experience the delights of Derbyshire on a full-day tour from Manchester. See the rolling hills of the Peak District, taste the traditional treats of Bakewell, and journey into the natural wonder that is Poole’s Cavern.

• 3-day Yorkshire Dales and Peak District Tour

Travel through the best of Northern England on this tour to York, Chatsworth House, the Peak District and more. On this 3-day small-group tour from Manchester, you explore all of it in the comfort of a luxury, 16 seat mini-coach.

Read more – Complete transportation guide to the UK

There are many famous Derbyshire dishes that must be sampled when visiting the Peak District. These include:

• Bakewell Pudding or Tart
• Hartington Stilton Cheese
• Ashbourne Gingerbread
• Buxton Pudding

Don’t miss a visit to a farmer’s market or farm shop to purchase locally grown produce. Chatsworth Farm Shop (located on the estate) and the Bakewell Farmers Market (held on the last Saturday of the month) are particularly noteworthy!

PLACES TO VISIT IN THE PEAK DISTRICT (AREA & ACCOMMODATION GUIDE)

PEAK DISTRICT ITINERARY

THINGS TO DO IN BAKEWELL

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN THE PEAK DISTRICT

Find more special stays in my Accommodation Guide for England.

This guide to visiting the Peak District will have answered all your questions and helped you plan your trip to one of England’s prettiest regions.

You can find more practical tips, resources and advice in all my UK travel guides which include:

• York Travel Guide
• Cornwall Travel Guide
• Bath Travel Guide
• Jurassic Coast and Dorset Travel Guide
• Cotswolds Travel Guide
• Lake District Travel Guide
• Best UK staycation destinations

Looking for more inspiration for your travels in England? Check out my England Travel Planning Guide which has loads of ideas, tips and resources to plan your itinerary.

Day trip ideas for exploring the Peak District

The Peak District attracts all sorts of visitors from the keen outdoor explorers to the culturally interested individuals and families looking to retreat to the peaceful surroundings of the most beautiful peaks in the world.

Most people will need more than a week to do the Peak District National Park justice due to the sheer amount there is to do in this amazing region. Outdoor and extreme sports are very popular with visitors here; you could choose to spend all your time mastering a paragliding course or learning how to go cave exploring or rock climbing. All these pursuits are available, and you get to ply your new sporting skill sets in some of the very best locations in England. You can’t find that many spots to rival locations like Stanage Edge, The Roaches along the Pennine Way , or the Monsal Trail in the UK. 

Sightseers amongst you who love a good stroll are in for a treat as well. Whether your pace is full-on fast or relaxed and steady, the Peak District definitely has something for you to throw yourself into with its great range of walks . Take on some personal challenges at some of the best theme parks in England or walk into the wilderness for views you will never forget . Whether you come to the Peak District with your best friend, partner, a group of pals or your family, there is something for everyone here.

We have pulled together our top 5 days out in the Peak District which offer a nice variety for a range of different interests…

Chatsworth Estate

Experience one of the many stately houses in the Peak District

On the banks of the River Derwent sits Chatsworth House , a 16 th -century mansion that is open to the public to enjoy of a day. Built in 1553, many of the historical features have been restored to immaculate condition and it one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Peak District.

This makes a lovely day out as not only can you marvel at the craftsmanship of this amazing yellow-stone structure; you can enjoy the surrounding grounds of gardens and woodland where the little ones can stretch their legs. There is a on-site tearoom serving tea, coffee and cake as well as light bites for lunch and there are also a range of family-fun events hosted throughout the year – keep an eye on their website for updated information.

• The house has over 30 rooms containing significant collections of artwork, ancient artefacts and sculptures spanning 4,000 years.
• Some of the gardens were designed by Capability Brown, with so many interesting features both restored and modern for you to experience, like the Hunting Tower, the Seahorse Fountain (on the South Lawn), The Cascade, The Emperor Fountain, and Angela Connor’s Revelation sculpture too.
• For children, there is a farmyard where they can watch milking demonstrations and burn off some energy in the adventure playground.

Fun fact:  Chatsworth House was chosen to be the fictional Pemberley in the 2005 production of Pride and Prejudice starring Keira Knightley. Exteriors and interiors of the house were used for sets and today you can visit the stately house and enjoy all it has to offer.

The estate is massive and rewards repeat visits, so if the weather is clement, a day out at Chatsworth should be your top pick. Even on hot days, there are plenty of places to rest in the shade with an ice cream!

Stay close by to Chatsworth house in one of our Bakewell holiday cottages and for more ideas, read our blog on historic houses and castles in the Peak District.

The Roaches

Hunt down some wallabies and yaks during your day trip in Derbyshire

The Roaches is a wind-carved outcrop of gritstone rocks straddling the parishes of Leekfrith and Heathylee in the Peak District National Park, about 4 miles north of Leek and 8 miles south of Buxton.

Many might not believe that there are still wallabies roaming the land here, but there are many that still do! Whilst the last confirmed sighting of a wallaby was in 2001, there have been unconfirmed sightings over the years and they still occur to this day. This unusual colony thrived for over 50 years after the original five broke out of a private zoo in the mid-1940s. The last male died in 1996, and we’re told that the average age of a wallaby is 12-14 years. The yaks are fondly remembered by locals but perished long ago. But it still fun to encourage the little ones to use their imagination!

The Roaches are easily accessible and a beautiful spot for walks. The unusual landscape and weird rock formations, coupled with stunning panoramic views, make this a truly memorable walk. The mighty gritstone cliffs of the Roaches strike an imposing profile, guarding the south-west approaches to the Peak District, and also offer the perfect platform to admire one of the most dramatic landscapes in Britain.

Reward yourself: Tuck into a homemade lunch or selection of just-baked cakes at the Roaches Tea Rooms and Restaurant in Upper Hulme to refuel. Make sure you try a traditional cheese-filled Staffordshire oatcake or sumptuous, slap-up cream tea – you won’t regret it! Location: ST13 8TY 

If you are inclined to get your walking boots on during your visit to the Peak District, make sure you check out our guide to planning the perfect Peak District walking holiday . 

Explore a historic village to feed your cultural intelligence

Buxton is one out of many picturesque villages in the Peak District, but what makes it stand out is the fact that it is the highest market town in England! It’s also been welcoming people to relax in its thermal springs since the Roman times. Reminiscent of Bath with its spas and ornate architecture, Buxton is a fantastic town to explore. The town has a sandstone crescent of houses similar but smaller in scale to the Royal Cresent in Bath; the Buxton Opera House was built in a similar style in 1903 and is a beautiful example of Edwardian style.

Fun fact: Have you ever enjoyed a bottle of chilled Buxton water? Well this is where it is from! As it’s an old spa town you can sample the very water that gets bottled, Buxton Spring, and distributed around the world, from a number of fountains around the town.

There is plenty to see and do in this idyllic town - here are our top suggestions:

• Poole’s Cavern –  a spectacular natural cavern where you can wonder at amazing crystal formations in huge illuminated chambers. Take a 1-hour guided tour to make the most of it and fully understand this home of the past cave dwellers. Enjoy a tasty meal in the Cavern Café and explore the fossil and gemstone shop. Location:  SK17 9DH
• Pavilion Gardens –  this is a beautiful heritage visitor attraction which provides a great day out for all. There are 23 acres of Heritage Green Flag award-winning landscaped gardens as well as a café, coffee bar, gift boutique and tourist information centre. People love to come here and enjoy time next to the river and meandering lake, soaking up the atmosphere and enjoying the fresh air. Location: SK17 6BE
• Solomons Temple –  get the best views around with a stroll through Buxton Country park from Poole's Cavern which leads to the summit of Grin Low at 1440ft altitude and the Victorian viewing tower of Solomon's Temple. From here you can see the surrounding Peak District landscape and the spa town of Buxton in the valley below. It was built in 1896! Location: SK17 9DH
• Buxton Opera House –  this is a beautiful old theatre house which is well-loved by its locals and the artists that come to perform here. The inside is superb with all the old embellished features of a typical historic opera house, with quirky characteristics and atmospheric charm. With an interesting calendar of shows and performances throughout the year, you can enjoy shows from intimate music concerts to dance productions. There is a bar to enjoy a drink before or after a show, and of course the ice cream interval! Location: SK17 6XN

You can come and enjoy the town for yourself whilst staying in one of our Buxton holiday cottages which act as the perfect base to explore from. For more ideas, check out our guide on the best places to visit in the Peak District . Take the kids away and stay in a family-friendly town house or plan a mini-break in one of our cosy cottages for two. Whatever the occasion, we will have something to suit you.

The Heights of Abraham

Soar across the Derwent Valley in one of the Peak District's iconic cable cars

The Heights of Abraham in Matlock Bath is a must for you if you are planning a week’s stay or more in the Peak District. Connected by cable cars and a network of paths to climb Masson Hill, the views from the summit are jaw-dropping and well worth the high-flying journey up to the top. There’s a few cafes and a visitor centre at the top as well as entry to two show caves included in the entry price. There are also traces of the mine works at the top of the hill to get the historians amongst you speculating how it all worked.

Scaling a height of 169 metres, you’ll dangle (securely!) up to 23.5 metres from the ground. This attraction has been running since the 1780s, but thanks to a facelift in 1984, it’s enabled us modern explorers to glide up in style! Overcome your fear of heights in the top-of-the-range cable cars and you’ll never forget your time in the Peak District.

If you like going up high you can also enjoy thrills at some of the major theme parks in the Peak District. 

The Monsal Trail

Walk or cycle your way along one of the UK’s most iconic trails

The Monsal Trail is a traffic-free route for walkers, cyclists and horse riders which takes you on an adventure through some of the Peak District's spectacular limestone dales. It takes in views of all kinds of countryside landscapes, old railway tunnels and viaducts. Following the path of a former railway track, the gradient is fairly level so it is suitable for all the family to get on their bikes and get into it.

• The trail runs along the former Midland Railway line for 8.5 miles between Blackwell Mill, in Chee Dale and Coombs Road, at Bakewell .
• The trail has four tunnels - Headstone Tunnel, Cressbrook Tunnel, Litton Tunnel and Chee Tor Tunnel.
• Each tunnel is about 400 meters long making them fun passageways to explore through. Don’t worry, you can't lose the kids as the tunnels are lit throughout the day and night. These are powered by light sensor so if you are using the trail in the afternoon, you are advised to take a torch or have bike lights in case you get caught out!

Keep an eye out for the Monsal Viaduct, now one of the most famous features of the trail and an object of architectural and historic interest – it joined Buxton and Bakewell together which caused controversy to many when it happened. Cresswell Brook is also a point of interest which was first opened as a cotton mill in 1783 and powered by the water from Cressbrook stream. The lime kilns to the east and west of Millers Dale Station are examples of commercial kilns built in the 19th and 20th centuries – keep an eye out for these too!

If you are looking to walk sections of this trail, or all of it, then check out our selection of cottages in Bakewell.

This blog is a just a small taste of the adventures you can go on in the Peak District; there’s so much more in the region to discover. We offer a wide range of family-friendly cottages, cottages for two and larger holiday homes to suit groups and extended relations. This region is also perfect for the dogs to join you, so make sure you keep our dog-friendly range in mind and for those who like a touch of luxury to their explorations, there are a handful with hot-tubs too!

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.

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10 Best Days Out in the Peak District

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• 18th May 2020

The Peak District National Park is absolutely crammed with amazing places to visit and sights to see.  We guarantee that you’ll be spoilt for choice, no matter where you’re based or how long you’re here for. It’s so hard to choose any favourite spots from so many brilliant contenders, but these are our choices for the Top 10 Best Days Out in the Peak District!

Chatsworth House

Arguably the Jewel in Derbyshire’s Crown, Chatsworth House and its Estate offers a wonderful place for family days out in the Peak District! 

The magnificent Chatsworth House is set in over 1,000 acres of parkland, beautifully situated on the banks of the River Derwent.  A true feast for the senses, there are more than 30 rooms open to the public, with awe-inspiring interiors, lavish furnishings, and a world famous collection of art.  

There are also 105 acres of formal gardens, designed by Capability Brown, as well as a large woodland adventure playground and a child-friendly farmyard.  

When you’ve worked up an appetite, there are a number of restaurants, cafés and tea shops throughout the estate, and no trip is complete without a visit to the award-winning Chatsworth Estate Farm Shop , located a short distance away in the pretty village of Pilsley.

A day in the beautiful village of Castleton should feature in the itinerary of every visitor to the Peak District.  It’s surrounded by stunning scenery, nestled in the hills at the western end of the Hope Valley, and has something to offer for everyone.  

For outdoor enthusiasts Castleton is the perfect gateway to Kinder Scout and Mam Tor , and its many show caverns will appeal to adventurous kids of all ages.  

Visitors who prefer a gentle pace of exploration will enjoy wandering its narrow lanes, browsing the independent shops and sampling the fare in the many tea rooms, restaurants and pubs. 

History lovers should explore the Norman ruins of Peveril Castle which overlook the village.  A walk up to the castle offers visitors the chance to admire the breathtaking views over both the gritstone Dark Peak and the limestone White Peak areas of the Peak District. 

Kinder Scout

At 2,087 feet high, Kinder Scout is the highest point in the Peak District and the views from its summit are awe-inspiring – in the truest sense of the words.  Walking to the vast open moorland on the top of Kinder takes the visitor through a wide variety of different landscapes and perfectly illustrates the diversity of the Peak District, with mighty gritstone edges, hillside lakes, heather moorland and crashing waterfalls. 

Kinder Scout is also significant in the history of hill walking in the UK, being the scene of the famous ‘Kinder Trespass’ in 1932, when over 400 peaceful protesters took to private land and joined in a mass trespass to highlight the restrictions upon walking in open country.  This led directly to legislation that allowed people to walk freely on access land, and was also a contributory factor in the creation of the National Parks , the first of which was the Peak District.

The beautiful town of Bakewell , set on the River Wye, is the ancient capital of the Peak District and is the only town wholly within the National Park.  It has a wealth of historic buildings, shops and restaurants, and and it’s a wonderful place to explore, with pretty riverside walks, old stone cottages, narrow lanes and hidden courtyards. 

Bakewell has a long and fascinating history; its market was first established in 1254 and still takes place every Monday.  The towns also hosts one of the largest agricultural shows in the UK every August, as well as an annual Arts Festival and the Peak Literary Festival.  

And no trip to Bakewell is complete without sampling some famous Bakewell Pudding, a sticky, sweet confection made of pastry, eggs, almonds and jam! 

To work off the calories, the nearby Monsal Trail offers an accessible walking and cycling route out of the town into some of the most stunning scenery in the Peak District.

The Roaches

The Roaches is a stunning gritstone ridge rising up from moorland close to  Leek  in Staffordshire.  At its highest point the ridge reaches 505m (1,657 feet) and provides spectacular views over Staffordshire , Cheshire and even into Lancashire and Wales. Covering 975 acres of rocky upland, the perfect playground for walkers and climbers, this is a great place for outdoor adventures in the Peak District!

The Roaches is managed by the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust and is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).  Its heather-clad moorland and blanket bog provides important habitats for a huge variety of wildlife, including birds such as curlew, red grouse and peregrine falcon.

For fantastic views, climb the stone steps to the left of a distinctive stone cottage built into the hillside (the Don Whillans Memorial Hut , run by the British Mountaineering Council ), and walk left along the rocky ridge.

Haddon Hall

Haddon Hall is acclaimed as one of the most beautiful medieval manor houses in the whole of England, and rightly so. Its castellated stone walls are covered with ivy and climbing roses, and its perfect setting on a hillside overlooking the River Wye is straight out of a romantic fairytale.  We think it’s a Must-See for any visitor to the Peak District! 

Parts of Haddon Hall date back to the 11th Century and it is remarkably well-preserved, with most of it unchanged since the days of Henry VIII.  The rooms offer fascinating glimpses into history, and the beautiful Elizabethan terraced garden is the perfect place for a summer stroll. 

There’s also a licensed restaurant in the 17th Century stable block with a great menu when you’ve worked up an appetite.

Just on the edge of the Peak District, the historic spa town of Buxton offers a great day out with something for everyone. In Buxton you’ll find stunning Georgian and Victorian architecture, beautiful parks and quirky shops, as well as top-class theatre, an award-winning spa, museums, art galleries and fantastic dining. 

For the kids there are caverns to wonder at and woodland trails to explore at Poole’s Cavern and Buxton Country Park .  Located just a short drive outside the town, Poole’s Cavern is a beautiful show cave formed naturally out of the limestone rock over 2 million years ago.  The Cavern is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest, and has been entrancing visitors since 1853. 

Buxton is also well known for its beautiful Edwardian  Opera House , designed by Frank Matcham in 1903.  As one of Britain’s leading receiving theatres, Buxton Opera House presents around 450 performances each year including dance, comedy, children’s shows, drama, musical concerts, pantomime and opera as well as a lively Fringe Theatre and Community and Education Programme.  The theatre is also home to the renowned Buxton International Festival.

The elegant Lyme Park is in Cheshire, on the very edge of the Peak District. Originally a hunting lodge and modest family home, it was transformed into a glorious Regency mansion in the 15th Century. Now owned by the National Trust , it’s a great family day out in the Peak District.

The house has lavish interiors and fascinating collections of art, but there is plenty to keep kids interested too – try out the billiards table in the Long Gallery, read a book in the library, or visit the Dressing Room to try on the finest Regency regalia.

Outside there’s a magnificent 1,400 acre estate, complete with a medieval herd of red deer. You can explore the elegant Rose Garden, Ravine Garden or the reflecting lake where a certain Mr Darcy got his shirt wet in the BBC production of ‘Pride and Prejudice’. Children can let off steam in the Crow Wood adventure playground, and the nearby Timberyard Café offers delicious hot and cold food.

Padley Gorge

The wooded ravine known as Padley Gorge is only a stone’s throw from civilisation, but it feels like another world entirely.  Located on the border between Derbyshire and Yorkshire , here you’ll find ancient, twisted oak and birch trees growing along gentle slopes, and in the valley below a crystal-clear stream, Burbage Brook, rushes across rocks. 

The northern edge of Padley Gorge, where Burbage Brook leaves the edge of Burbarge Moor and runs towards the National Trust estate at Longshaw, is extremely popular with families in the summer months. Take a picnic and some paddling clothes and you can happily spend a whole day out here.  The shallow streams, shady trees, pretty wooden footbridges and large flat rocks – perfect as stepping stones – make the area a haven for children.

Matlock Bath

Although it’s just outside the Peak District, the quirky town of Matlock Bath has to appear in our list because it’s a fabulous place for a great day out. There’s plenty to see and do in the town itself, with shops, cafés and museums, as well as riverside walks along the River Derwent for shady strolls. 

But the reason it features in our 10 Best Days Out in the Peak District is because of the numerous attractions around the town.  There are magnificent cable cars at the Heights of Abraham , which take visitors 339 metres up and across the Derwent Valley.  For younger visitors there’s the family-friendly theme park of Gulliver’s Kingdom , or steam train experiences on the Peak Rail heritage railway.  And at the fabulous Crich Tramway Village , home to the National Tramway Museum, the whole family can spend a day riding vintage trams and exploring the heritage village.

Peak District, England: 14 Unmissable Things to Do + Best Walks + Map

The First National Park in England , the Peak District boasts of having one of the most stunning landscapes in the UK. Spread over 500 square miles mostly in Derbyshire, Peak District is very famous for its rugged rolling hills, magnificent valleys, breath-taking rocky edges, idyllic reservoirs, and spectacular show caves. 

It’s extremely popular with the walkers, climbers, cyclists and potholers. Some of the elegant country houses and bustling small towns are also located in the Peak District. Plus, Peak District hosts some unique festivals like Garland Day and Well Dressing Festival. 

It attracts over 10 million visitors every year from all over the world. Visiting Peak district would definitely be a memorable experience. Here is our 4 days travel itinerary for the Peak District.

Getting to Peak District:

The attractions, that we talked about above, are huddled around 3 main villages and small town: Castleton, Bamford and Bakewell.  All of them are well connected with Sheffield by bus.

Castleton :

Bus 272 runs from Sheffield Interchange to Castleton few times day. It takes about an hour to reach. If you are coming by car, it would be about 35 minutes via A57.

Bamford falls on the Hope Valley Railway which connects Sheffield with Manchester. By train, this village is about 15 minutes from Sheffield, but the village centre is almost 15 minutes walk from the train station. If you are coming by bus from Sheffield, it would take about 35 minutes. By Car, Bamford is 25 minutes from Sheffield via A57.

Take the bus 218 from Sheffield Interchange to reach Bakewell. It takes roughly an hour. If you are coming by car, it would take almost 40 minutes via A625.

🇬🇧 14 Awesome Things to do in Peak District, England

Day-1 in peak district:, 1. chatsworth house.

Chatsworth House is one of the top tourist attractions of the Peak District in Derbyshire. Since it was built in the 1500s, Chatsworth House has been the home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire (Cavendish family). This is one of the most visited country houses in Britain.

Once here, explore the grand Painted Hall, beautifully decorated State Rooms and the Sculpture Gallery of the Cavendish family. The film adaption of Jane Austen’s romantic novel, Pride and Prejudice has made the Sculpture Gallery more popular. They have a tearoom as well where you can enjoy some light bites and indulge in an afternoon tea. 

The estate boasts of having one of the finest gardens in the UK. The centrepiece of the 105 acres garden is the Emperor Fountain which sits at the north end of the Canal Pond. It was built in the 1800s when Tsar Nicholas I of Russia was expected to visit here. At the time of construction, it was the world’s highest fountain. The garden has many other elegant features such as cascading steps, rock gardens, Greenhouse where Sir Joseph Paxton – the head gardener of the 6th Duke of Devonshire, cultivated the famous Cavendish Banana.

You would also enjoy the walk along the bank of River Derwent which flows by the estate. Plus, don’t miss the stone arched bridge near the car park. You would get to admire a brilliant view across the estate and the river.

2. Explore Edensor

This small village lies quite close to the Chatsworth House estate in Derbyshire. Originally Edensor (pronounced as ‘Enza’) was located just outside the Chatsworth House down the River Derwent. But in the 1800s, it was removed by the 6th Duke of Devonshire, William Cavendish as the village was obstructing the view from the estate. So, he decided to relocate the village near the Parish Church.

Present Day Edensor is incredibly picturesque. The buildings in this small village have strikingly varied architectural styles from Tudor to Swiss Chalet. It’s believed the 6th Duke couldn’t make up his mind when the architect John Robertson showed him a wide range of designs.

At the heart of this village, lies St Peter’s church. In the churchyard over there, most of the past Dukes of Devonshire are buried. Also, there is a memorial to Kathleen Kennedy, the sister of the late US president, John F Kennedy and the wife of William Cavendish, the eldest son of the 10th Duke. This village’s former post office is now the Edensor Tea Cottage, a nice spot for lunch.

3. Roam around the Village of Bakewell

This market town in Derbyshire is best known for inventing the famous delicious dessert, Bakewell Pudding – a strawberry jam-filled pastry topped with almond custard. If you have a sweet tooth, you will have to pay a visit here.

The story goes that a local cook made this by mistake in the 1800s after misreading the instructions and since then it’s a firm favourite. Once in Bakewell, pop into The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop near Rutland Square, and enjoy this tasty treat. You may have to queue for some time, but it’s totally worth it.

Not only the pudding, Bakewell has plenty of other things to do as well. Explore the medieval five arched stone bridge, take a stroll along the River Wye and admire the view of the town, enjoy a moment with your loved ones at the Love Locks Bridge.

If you are here on Monday, visit the bustling local market which takes place near the Visitor Centre. Plus, the Bath Gardens just opposite the Rutland Arms Hotel is a nice place to sit and relax in quiet and enjoy the garden.

4. Haddon Hall, Peak District

Not too far from Bakewell, Haddon Hall is an elegant medieval manor house in the Peak District. Built in the 11 th century, Haddon Hall is home to the Lord and Lady Edward Manners. Once here, explore the grand interiors and enjoy a meander around the magnificent cascading garden. Plus, Haddon hosts several events and exhibitions throughout the year. Haddon Hall has appeared in many films and documentaries. 

DAY-2 in Peak District:

5. ridge walk in mam tor.

Mam Tor is one of the most scenic ridge walks in the UK offering a stunning view over Hope Valley and the Vale of Edale. This ‘shivering mountain’ is situated on an active landslide and ever year, it moves about a quarter of a meter. In fact, ‘Mam Tor’ means Mother Hill because all the surrounding small hills were formed due to its movement over the last 4000 years.

This 517 meter high hill is a firm favourite with the walkers and climbers. The most popular walking trail starts from the Mam Tor Car park and the summit can be reached by accessing a series of steps. This 3-mile long circular path continues along the flagstone path over the Great Ridge. It’s quite an easy walk and typically takes about 2 hours to complete unless you get too carried away with the view.

You can also do a bit longer circular trail (about 6.5 miles) from Castleton. Part of the path can be a bit boggy, particularly on a wet day.

On a sunny day, Mam Tor is very popular with paragliders as well. As you walk along, you can see many people floating around and enjoying the breath-taking view of the Great Ridge and the valleys on its two sides.

6. Blue John Cavern

Not too far from Mam Tor, Blue John Cavern is a very popular tourist attraction in the Peak District. This is considered one of the finest show caves in Western Europe. Now, if you are wondering what Blue John is, it’s a rare mineral that was first discovered in the Peak District about 2000 years ago by the Romans. Even, Vases made of Blue John were found during the excavation of the Pompeii in Italy.

Once here, take a guided tour and enjoy this vast underground cavern of the magic mineral. The miners still dig this precious stone by hand and turn those into jewellery. If you fancy wearing a Blue John jewellery, pop into their shop at the cavern or the Original Blue John Craft Shop in the nearby village, Castleton.

7. Winnats Pass

Winnats Pass is one of the famous hill passes in the UK and lies very close to Castleton. The name derives from the Windy Gates – won’t be hard to realise the origin of the name if you pass through this limestone valley on a windy day. The road is extremely photogenic with limestone ridges on either side. If you are travelling by car in the Peak District, you have to drive through here. As you can see, it can be busy sometimes particularly in summer but totally worth it.

8. Treak Cliff Cavern, Peak District

After Visiting Blue John Cavern, if you are in for another Blue John stone wonderland, pop into Treak Cliff Cavern . This one is nestled in the Treak Cliff Hill and falls on the way to Castleton from Blue John Cavern. Take their guided tours and experience the jaw-dropping cave formations, most remarkably The Pillar – the largest Blue John stone and The Stork – the most impressive rock formation in the cave. They have self-guided audio tours available as well.

DAY-3 in Peak District:

9. explore castleton.

Located at the head of Hope Valley in the Peak District, Castleton is a picture-perfect village . Having an abundance of rolling hills nearby, Castleton offers some of the scenic walking opportunities in the UK. This is also a great base to explore the famous show caves of the Peak District.

Once here, simply take a ramble around the village and take in the stunning view of the surrounding hills. Also, look up to the Norman ruins of Peveril Castle as well which overlooks this beautiful village. 

Plus, Castleton hosts a very offbeat festival every year on 29th May – Castleton Garland Day. It’s totally one-of-a-kind festival where the Garland King on a horseback is completely covered with a bell-shaped flower frame (weighs almost 30 kg!).

He and his consort then parade through this village and stops at every village pubs. That’s an extremely popular event and thousands of people flock to Castleton to attend this event.

10. Cave Dale

Cave Dale is a hidden gem in Castleton. Just a short walk from the bustling village centre, this is like an oasis of calm. Take a stroll along this rugged limestone valley and get an amazing view of Peveril Castle.

The walk from the cave-like entrance of this dale is moderately easy but at places, it can be a bit wet, slippery and steep. On your walk, you will get to see small caves tucked away in the hills. Cave Dale was featured in the 2008 film, The Other Boleyn Girl.

11. Peak Cavern, Peak District

Known to the local as the Devil’s Arse, Peak Cavern in the Peak District has the largest natural cave mouth in the UK. Located in Castleton just beneath the imposing Peveril Castle, the entrance to this cave is simply spectacular which was used by the ropemakers until the 19th century for the local mining industry.  Take their guided tour and visit the impressive chambers of this cavern – Orchestral Chamber, Devil’s Cellar, Pluto’s Dining Room.

If you want to enjoy a live music performance inside this cavern, check out their website. They host a number of concerts and events throughout the year.

DAY-4 in Peak District:

12. hike up to bamford edge.

Bamford Edge in the Hope Valley is an overhang of gritstone rock formations. Climbing Bamford Edge should definitely be on your Peak District travel itinerary. It’s quite an easy hike and extremely popular with walkers and climbers in all seasons.

Nearby Bamford Village would be a good starting point for the walk. From the village centre, it would take about 1-1.5 hours depending on your fitness level. Once you reach the top, which is about 420 m high, you would get a spell-binding view across the Hope Valley and Ladybower Reservoir with Ashopton Viaduct.

When we were there, it was almost the end of summer. Though the moorland heathers were not in full bloom anymore, the purple colour was not completely faded. It was beautiful. You can extend the walk to Stanage Edge, another impressive gritstone Edge popular with rock climbers and hikers.

13. Ladybower Reservoir, Peak District

Ladybower Reservoir is a large Y-shaped reservoir in the Upper Derwent Valley in the Peak District. Centrepiece of the Ladybower Reservoir is certainly Ashopton Viaduct. Plus, this reservoir is historically very significant. During the World War II, pilots of 617 squadron did a bombing practice here before attacking the great dams of Germany as part of Operation Chastise (or Dam Busters) led by Guy Gibson.

The entire Upper Derwent Valley offers plenty of opportunities to walk, cycle and fish and enjoy the stunning scenery. Having plenty of woodlands, rolling hills and rare birds in the surrounding area, this is a great place to commune with the nature.

14. Bamford Village

Located about 11 miles west of Sheffield, Bamford is a great base to explore the famous Bamford Edge and Upper Derwent Valley which consists of three reservoirs. Originally this village in the Hope Valley was developed around a corn mill and the population increased when the dams in the Upper Derwent Valley were built.  Bamford is also a popular rail station on the Hope Valley line which connects Sheffield and Manchester. 

Well Dressing festival, a popular flower decoration festival around the wells and water sources in rural England, takes place in this village in July every year.

After a long walk, Angler’s Rest at the centre of the village is a good spot for a pint and light refreshments. 

🗺️ Map of the attractions in Peak District

Here is the Google map of all the Best things to do in the Peak District, England for 4 days.

  Click here to open it in Google maps .

Planing a Trip to England?

For further reading on other ENGLAND destinations:

Best Time to Visit Peak District:

Peak district is beautiful in all seasons. But days being longer, summer months are a better choice for outdoor activities. Plus, some of the popular festivals like Garland Day and Well Dressing Festival take place in summer. 

4 thoughts on “Peak District, England: 14 Unmissable Things to Do + Best Walks + Map”

I love Derbyshire! I was born there in the early 1940’s and have a deep fondness for all that Derbyshire offers. Chatsworth House is fantastic. On a return visit 12 years ago all of my large family met there for a wonderful picnic. So happy that it has been kept up so nicely.

Love your blog. Thank you. Could you also add some info on where best to stay to do all of these activities? Thank you.

Thank you, for sharing such a piece of detailed information. This helps to make the most of it when one visits this wonderland, the Peak District.

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The Ultimate Peak District Motorcycle Tour!

Overview: Explore the wonders of the Peak District with our one-night, two-day tour – the ideal adventure for both new riders and those experienced riders eager to delve into touring. Over the two days, we’ll cover approximately 300 miles, with ample stops along the way, including an overnight stay in the charming town of Holmfirth. Day 1 kicks off in Chester, cruising through scenic country lanes towards the iconic Cat and Fiddle, followed by a delightful lunch break at Chatsworth House. After refueling, we’ll conquer the thrilling Snake Pass before winding down for a cozy overnight stay in Holmfirth. Day 2 begins with a hearty breakfast, and we’ll continue the ride, navigating through more stunning routes like Winnats Pass before making our way back home. This experience not only offers a taste of touring but also instills the confidence to progress towards larger and more adventurous tours. Join The RIDE TOURS for an unforgettable adventure!

Duration: This fantastic motorcycle tour spans over two action-packed days, covering an impressive 300 miles through the stunning landscapes and diverse attractions of the Peak District. You’ll navigate through iconic twists and turns, passing by breath-taking landmarks such as Chatsworth House, Snake Pass, Winnats Pass, and the famous Cat and Fiddle route. These incredible sights will make your journey truly unforgettable.

Expert Guides:  Safety and enjoyment are our top priorities, which is why we provide not just one, but three expert tour guides to lead the way. Our tour guides are not only experienced in touring but are also advanced examiners in motorcycling. With their wealth of knowledge, they’ll provide valuable insights and ensure your safety throughout the journey.

Group Size: Our tours are designed for intimate and personalized experiences. You’ll be part of a small group of fellow motorcycle enthusiasts, with a maximum of eight customers. This allows for a friendly and sociable atmosphere, where you can share stories, make new friends, and create memories together.

Practicalities: After an exhilarating day on the road, rest assured that we’ve arranged a comfortable overnight stay at a lovely 3-star hotel based in Holmfirth. The hotel offers a great selection of food and drink, ensuring you have a pleasant and relaxing evening. Once you wake up well rested, we’ll start day two right with a delicious breakfast included as part of the tour package, setting the tone for another thrilling day ahead.

Peak District – May 2024

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WHY THE PEAK DISTRICT?

Unleash Your Inner Adventurer: Join us for an exhilarating motorcycle tour of the Peak District, where riders of all levels can experience diverse road types catered to their preferences. Our carefully planned routes boast minimal traffic, providing an enjoyable and stress-free riding experience. As you ride through the stunning landscapes, be prepared for a visual feast. The roads offer a delightful mix of open swooping bends with excellent visibility, allowing you to soak in lovely mountain views. Additionally, you’ll encounter smaller, single-track lanes that will captivate your attention and enhance your riding skills.

Let Us Be Your Local Guides:   Leave the logistics to us; we handle all the planning. Simply show up and follow our expert guides along the pre-planned route, making the tour hassle-free and allowing you to focus on the ride. To accommodate varying paces within the group, our three tour guides will adeptly split the pack (if required), ensuring everyone can ride at a comfortable pace and make the most of the tour.

Unforgettable Memories, Made Easy: We believe that a motorcycle tour should be about creating unforgettable memories without any stress. That’s why we take care of all the details, from comfortable accommodations to delicious meals and seamless logistics. All you have to do is show up, hop on your bike, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Peak District. Let us handle the rest, so you can focus on making memories that will last a lifetime.

Everyone is welcome: Experience levels vary among participants, and all are welcome to join this tour. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to motorcycle tours, this route is catered to everyone. Embark on this unforgettable adventure, where the scenic beauty of the Peak District meets the joy of motorcycling. Book your spot now by booking online or giving our office a call and get ready to create cherished memories on two wheels!

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Legendary Ride Tours

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