The Peak District National Park is a picturesque expanse in central England, known for its rolling hills, limestone dales, and charming villages. Covering 555 square miles, it offers a diverse landscape of moorland and wooded valleys, making it a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Popular destinations within the park include the serene Dovedale, the historic village of Castleton, and the tranquil Ladybower Reservoir. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and rock climbing, amidst the park’s natural beauty and tranquil ambiance.
Official website: https://www.peakdistrict.gov.uk
Google map of the Peak District National Park
The Best Places to Visit in the Peak District
Ladybower Reservoir
Ladybower Reservoir is one of the largest reservoirs in the Peak District, located in the Upper Derwent Valley. The reservoir was constructed in the 1930s and offers a stunning natural environment for visitors to explore. Surrounded by picturesque hills and woodlands, the reservoir is a popular spot for hiking, cycling, and birdwatching. Visitors can also enjoy water sports such as fishing, boating, and kayaking on the reservoir’s waters. The area around Ladybower Reservoir is also rich in history, with several ancient stone circles and burial mounds in the surrounding countryside.
Official website: https://www.stwater.co.uk
Google map 4.8/5
Google map (Heatherdene Car Park S33 0AQ) with public toilets
Mam Tor
Mam Tor is a prominent hill in the Peak District, known for its stunning views and ancient hill fort. Visitors can hike to the top of the hill, taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the ancient ruins of the hill fort. The area around Mam Tor is also rich in natural beauty, with several scenic walking trails and the nearby Winnats Pass, a stunning limestone gorge.
Google map 4.8/5
Mam Tor Circular Walk (along the Great Ridge)
This scenic hiking trail takes visitors through some of the most picturesque parts of the Peak District, including the ancient hill fort at Mam Tor and the stunning landscape of the Hope Valley. The trail is suitable for hikers of all levels, with options for longer or shorter hikes depending on your ability. Along the way, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the countryside, spot local wildlife, and appreciate the rich history and culture of the area.
Useful website: https://visitpeakdistrict.com/
Google map Castleton
Google map Mam Nick National Trust car park (nearest car park)
Google map Mam Tor 4.8/5
Google map Great Ridge 4.8/5
Google map Lose Hill 4.9/5
Chatsworth House and Estate
Chatsworth House and Estate is a grand stately home located in the heart of the Peak District. The estate offers a range of attractions for visitors to explore, including the famous gardens, the impressive art collection, and the historic house itself. The house features opulent interiors and a collection of artwork that includes pieces by famous artists such as Rembrandt, Veronese, and Van Dyck. The gardens, which cover over 100 acres, feature fountains, sculptures, and a famous maze. The estate also offers a range of outdoor activities, including horseback riding, fishing, and shooting.
Official website: https://www.chatsworth.org
Google map 4.7/5
Kinder Scout (hike)
This challenging hiking trail is located in the Peak District and takes visitors to the summit of Kinder Scout, the highest point in the area. The trail is suitable for experienced hikers and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the Hope Valley and the Dark Peak. Along the way, visitors can explore the many charming villages and historic landmarks that make this trail a must-visit destination in the Peak District.
Google map 4.9/5
Bakewell
Bakewell is a charming market town located in the heart of the Peak District, famous for its delicious Bakewell Pudding. The town offers a range of attractions for visitors to explore, including historic buildings, quaint shops, and beautiful riverside walks. The Bakewell Old House Museum offers a glimpse into the town’s rich history, while the 12th-century All Saints Church features stunning stained-glass windows and a unique octagonal tower. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and fishing in the surrounding countryside.
Google map (Bakewell Town)
Google map (Bakewell Visitor Centre)
Google map (Smith’s Island Car Park – Town Centre Parking DE45 1EZ)
Dovedale
Dovedale is a picturesque valley in the Peak District, known for its limestone cliffs, tranquil river, and scenic walking trails. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the countryside, taking in the stunning scenery and observing the local wildlife. The valley is also home to several limestone caves and caverns, including the famous Dove Holes and Reynard’s Cave, which can be explored with a guide.
Google map 4.8/5
Google map (Dovedale Car Park)
Stanage Edge
Located in the Peak District, Stanage Edge is a rugged gritstone edge that stretches for several miles and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The edge is a popular destination for rock climbers, with many challenging routes that attract climbers from around the world. The edge is also a great spot for hiking, with trails that offer panoramic views of the Hope Valley and the Dark Peak.
Google map (Stanage Edge) 4.9/5
Google map (Hollin Bank Car Park) Pay&Display
Google map (Hooks Carr Car Park) FREE
Castleton
This charming historic village is nestled in the heart of the Peak District and is home to several iconic landmarks. Visitors can explore the ruins of Peveril Castle, which dates back to the 11th century, and the Blue John Caverns, which feature unique mineral formations that are only found in this part of the world. The village itself is also a great destination, with quaint shops, cafes, and pubs that offer a glimpse into the local culture. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the nearby rivers and canals, or hike the many scenic trails that wind through the surrounding hills and valleys.
Google map (Castleton Village)
Google map (Castleton Village Centre Car Park
Google map (Castleton Visitor Centre)
Devil’s Arse Cave (Peak Cavern), Castleton
This vast limestone cave is one of the largest in the Peak District and features impressive rock formations, underground streams, and a unique concert venue that hosts live music and shows throughout the year. Visitors can explore the cave with a guided tour, learning about the fascinating geology and history of the area. The cave is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bats and rare insects.
Official website: https://peakcavern.co.uk/
Google map 4.5/5
Hathersage
This picturesque village in the Peak District is known for its outdoor public swimming pool, historic buildings, and stunning natural scenery. Visitors can explore the village’s many outdoor activities, including hiking, climbing, and swimming in the nearby rivers and streams. Hathersage is also the setting for the famous novel “Jane Eyre,” and visitors can explore the village’s many historical landmarks, including the grave of Little John, a legendary member of Robin Hood’s band.
The Roaches
This rugged gritstone edge is located in the Staffordshire Moorlands and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can hike the many scenic trails that wind through the area, taking in the stunning natural beauty and spotting local wildlife. The Roaches are also a popular destination for rock climbers, with many challenging routes that attract climbers from around the world. In addition to the outdoor activities, visitors can explore the many charming villages and historic landmarks that are located nearby.
Google map 4.9/5
Matlock Bath
This charming historic village is located in the Derbyshire Dales and is famous for its riverside promenade, which is lined with shops, cafes, and attractions. Visitors can explore the village’s many historic buildings, including the 19th-century Victorian Gothic style railway station, which now serves as a museum. The village is also home to the Heights of Abraham, a popular destination that features cable car rides and a variety of outdoor activities, including guided tours of the nearby caverns.
Google map (Village)
Google map (Temple Walk Car Park DE4 3PG)
Buxton
This spa town is located in the heart of the Peak District and is known for its historic architecture, natural beauty, and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the town’s many historic buildings, including the 18th-century Crescent, which features an impressive Georgian facade. Buxton is also home to several parks and gardens, including the Pavilion Gardens, which offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the town. The town is also known for its vibrant cultural scene, with several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Buxton Festival, which celebrates music and the arts.
Derwent Dam
This iconic landmark is located in the Upper Derwent Valley and played a vital role in World War II, serving as a training ground for the famous Dambusters raid. Visitors can explore the area around the dam, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities. The nearby Ladybower Reservoir also offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and cycling.
Google map Derwent Dam 4.8/5
Google map Upper Derwent Visitor Centre 4.6/5
Google map Derwent Dam Viewpoint 4.8/5
Google map Derwent Reservoir 4.8/5
Google map Howden Dam 4.8/5
Padley Gorge
This picturesque valley is located in the Peak District and features stunning natural beauty, including a babbling brook and lush woodlands. Visitors can hike the many trails that wind through the area, taking in the stunning scenery and spotting local wildlife. The valley is also home to several historic landmarks, including the 16th-century Padley Chapel, which served as a secret meeting place for Catholics during the Reformation.
Official website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/
Google map Padley Gorge 4.8/5
Google map Padley Gorge Trail 4.8/5
Monsal Trail (hike)
This scenic hiking trail follows the route of an old railway line that once connected Buxton and Bakewell. The trail is suitable for hikers of all levels and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, including the picturesque Monsal Dale. Along the way, visitors can explore the many historic railway tunnels and viaducts that make this trail a unique destination in the Peak District. The trail also passes through several charming villages and historic landmarks, offering a glimpse into the local culture and history of the area.
Google map Monsal Dale – Monsalhead Viaduct & Headstone Tunnel 4.8/5
Edale
Edale is a picturesque village located in the heart of the Peak District and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The village is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including the Kinder Scout plateau and the Pennine Way hiking trail. Visitors can explore the many hiking trails that wind through the area, taking in the stunning scenery and spotting local wildlife. Edale is also home to several charming pubs and cafes that offer a taste of the local culture, as well as several historic landmarks, including the 16th-century Old Nag’s Head pub, which has been a popular meeting place for hikers for centuries.
Google map Edale village
Google map Edale Visitor Centre 4.4/5
The Pennine Way
The Pennine Way is a renowned 268-mile long-distance hiking trail that starts in Edale, in the Peak District National Park, and winds through the rugged and remote landscapes of the Pennine mountain range, ending at the border of Scotland in the Cheviot Hills. This challenging footpath offers hikers an opportunity to explore diverse terrain, from moorlands and valleys to limestone crags, while providing a sense of solitude and connection with nature amidst the beauty and wilderness of northern England and Scotland.
Google map Edale Visitor Centre 4.4/5