Things To Do In The Peak District
The Peak District
The Peak District is Britain’s original National Park, its roots stretching back almost a century. Covering 555 square miles across Yorkshire, Derbyshire, Staffordshire, Cheshire, and Greater Manchester, it remains a landscape that has shaped — and been shaped by — generations.
These uplands were the stage for the pioneering ‘mass trespass’ events of the 1930s, whose spirit helped lay the foundations for the protected landscapes and public access we enjoy today. Over the decades, the Peak District has stood at the crossroads of history — from devastating wildfires and the silent demise of steam railways, to its secret wartime role as the training ground for the Dambusters.
Today, visitors from across the world come to experience this living landscape. Its all-access trails open up the outdoors to everyone, while its renowned climbing, running, hiking, wild swimming and cycling routes challenge everyone.
Home to more than 38,000 residents, community spirit remains the heartbeat of the Peak District — whether you’re sampling local flavours, celebrating at annual festivals, or discovering your creative side.
If you’re ready to reconnect with nature, the Peak District is ready to welcome you — with open skies, open paths, and a warm heart.
Attractions
Historic Village of Eyam
Eyam became famous after the Black Death of 1665 / 1666. After an outbreak of the plague was discovered (spread from a parcel of wet cloth, that contained fleas) was sent from London to the local village tailor. The village reacted quickly and decided to try to reduce the spread of the disease to outside Eyam.
To be able to still get supplies into the village a boundary was created. The boundry was marked by troughs filled with vinegar to help kill off the disease. Villagers would leave payment for supplies at the troughs and return later for supplies so contact with outsiders was not made. No one was allowed to enter or leave the village. The actions of the villagers no doubt saved many lives in the surrounding local community but did cost the lives of 260 villagers out of a population of 800 affecting 76 families. With the use of these quarantine techniques, the medical world today uses Eyam as a case study in the prevention of disease.
Why not visit the Museum in the village to gain more knowledge of the history. Mompesson’s Well is located just down the road from Ladywash Cottage as is the Museum. This well was a boundary stone where money was left in vinegar for exchange for food and goods. Also on the edge of the village are the Riley Graves a poignant spot where 8 members of the same family were buried.
Eyam is a lovely village to stroll through. There are information boards on a number of the buildings in the village, as well as interpretation boards at the car park. The museum has a range of pamphlets on the village’s history, and these and others may be obtained from shops in the village.
Eyam Museum click here. For more information about the village click here
Chatsworth House, Gardens, Park Land, Adventure Playground and Farm Shop
No visit to the Peak District would be complete without visiting Chatsworth House, there is something to do for every member of the family.
The house is steeped with history and is one of Britain’s greatest stately homes which has been passed down through 17 generations of the Cavendish family. There are over 25 rooms to explore including the magnificent Painted Hall, regal State Rooms, restored Sketch Galleries and atmospheric Sculpture Gallery.
The gardens are equally as impressive as the house with more than 100 acres. It is filled with beautiful flowers and plants, there are giant water features and sculptures dotted around. It is suitable for all the family, with the maze, the garden trails, and the famous water cascade (during the warmer months) to keep the little ones occupied.
The Farmyard and Adventure playground is a brilliant day out for children of all ages – with animal handling, milking demonstrations and daily activities, plus a woodland adventure playground with slides, trampolines and more!
The Park Land consists of 1,822 acres which the River Derwent flows through. Enjoy a lovely stroll through the park or if the weather is nice why not have a picnic by the river.
The award-winning Chatsworth Farm Shop sells high-quality produce sourced from the estate, and trusted suppliers.
The Farm Shop is located on the Chatsworth Estate in Pilsley.
For more information about Chatsworth click here.
The Monsal Trail
With the Monsal Trail so close by you should take the opportunity to cycle/walk/run along the old Midland Railway line. The Monsal Trail is a traffic-free route for walkers, runners, cyclists, horse riders and wheelchair users through spectacular limestone dales with incredible views from places like the iconic Headstone Viaduct (as often seen from Monsal Head). With the recently reopened tunnels the trail offers one of the most spectacular leisure routes in Britain
The trail is 8.5 miles long, stretching at its furthest points between Blackwell Mill in Chee Dale and Coombs Road in Bakewell, with lots of access points connecting to additional footpaths and bridleways.
Families with young children and pushchairs, wheelchair users, cyclists and strollers will love the Monsal Trail for its easy access and flat surfaces through White Peak hills and dales. There are a number of refreshment stops along the way.
The old stations at Bakewell, Hassop and Millers Dale have pay and display car parks and offer easy access onto the Trail.
The old stations at Hassop and Millers Dale have cafés and accessible toilets. The renovated Goods Shed at Millers Dale Station provides visitor information, background to the Trail’s railway heritage and offers shelter for picnickers if the weather is bad.
For more informaton click here
Historic market town of Bakewell
Bakewell is the largest town within the Peak District National Park and is a hub of activity. Market day is on a Monday (so town can be crazy busy) and as well as a large range of stalls there is also an agricultural market which is definitely worth a look around as it offers a great insight into today’s farming community.
The Bakewell Old House Museum occupies one of the oldest buildings in Bakewell which dates back to 1543. It provides a fascinating glimpse into the towns past and is very interesting and informative with lots to appeal to all ages.
Obviously no trip to Bakewell would be complete without sampling an original Bakewell pudding. The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop claims to have the old original recipe and still makes the puddings by hand from the secret recipe (our favourite is the Iced Bakewell).
There are some lovely shops to browse through and when you need a break, grab an ice cream and watch the ducks on the River Wye.
Hungry, stop in one of the many cafes or pubs, many with indoor and outdoor seating.
For more information about Bakewell click here
Haddon Hall, Bakewell
Take a step back in time as you explore Haddon Hall, one of the country’s most elegant and historically important stately homes.
Over 900 years old, Haddon Hall is one of the country’s most elegant, historically important, and timeless stately homes.
Home to Lord and Lady Edward Manners and open to the public at various periods throughout the year, it is a magnificent example of a fortified manor house, enjoying fine Tudor and Elizabethan architecture, alongside beautiful Elizabethan walled gardens, which are renowned for their magnificent roses which cascade down the hall’s walls in the summer months.
For more informaton on Haddon Hall click here
Castleton
Castleton is a beautiful village situated at the head of the Hope Valley in the heart of the Peak District National Park.
Close to mysterious Mam Tor, locally known as the ‘Shivering Mountain’, Castleton is one of the most beautifully-situated villages in the Peak District.
Whether you approach through the dramatic limestone gorge of Winnats Pass or from the Hope Valley, you’ll appreciate the fabulous views created by its location on the cusp of the Peak District’s breathtaking limestone and gritstone landscapes.
Whatever the weather, Castleton has something to offer visitors of all ages at any time of year. If it’s fine and you’re feeling fit, climb the steep steps up to the atmospheric Norman ruins of Peveril Castle, completed in 1086 for William Peverel, a favoured knight of William the Conqueror.
Castleton is the only place in the world where the semi-precious stone Blue John, unique to the Peak District and Derbyshire, can be found and there are numerous show caverns to explore.
Fortify yourself in numerous cafés, tea rooms and pubs before heading off to tackle the Great Ridge Walk, one of the finest routes of its kind in the country. Not feeling that energetic, then just have a meander around the streets of Castleton and explore what this pretty village has to offer.
For more informaton on Castleton click here
Walk along the Edges
Baslow, Curbar and Froggatt Edges are only a short drive away and offer a spectacular walking route where you can view both the Dark and White Peaks.
These three gritstone edges are part of an almost continuous line of cliffs running from Stanage Edge down to Birchen Edge at the southern end.
Famous for millstones production in days gone by, are now known as great places to rock climb. There are over 200 rock-climbing routes on Curbar Edge alone, making the edges a mecca for walkers and climbers alike.
For walkers Baslow Edge also offers interesting features including a memorial to the Duke of Wellington, a giant rock called the Eagle Stone which in years gone by the young men of Baslow used it to show off their prowess and fitness for marriage by climbing to the top and even some resident Highland cows. There are many different routes, some circular, some linear around the edges and also different staring/finishing points.
Longshaw Estate and Padley Gorge Walk
This beautiful walk starts and ends in the peaceful Longshaw Estate, owned and managed by the National Trust. The route offers incredible open views across the Peak District moorland landscape before entering the fairytale ancient oak woodland of Padley Gorge. There is a tearoom at the start/end of the walk and a café roughly halfway round for refreshments if needed.
Peak Sightseer Open Top Bus
The open top bus is a great way to visit some of the Peak District’s most popular destinations allowing you to hop on / off at various stops including Castleton and the Caverns, Chatsworth, Bakewell, Bamford, Padley Gorge, Hathersage, the Monsal Trail and more
For more informaton on Peak Sightseer Open Top Bus click here
Local Pubs:
The Miners Arms, Eyam
Tucked away down a side street in the historic village of Eyam is this traditional pub built back in 1630 and has always been the hub of the village.
The Barrel Inn, Bretton,
The Barrel Inn is a traditional Derbyshire country inn which dates back to 1597 and stands at the head of Bretton Clough, in the heart of the Peak District. The Barrel Inn proudly claims to be the highest pub in Derbyshire.
The Bull’s Head Inn, Foolow,
The Bulls Head Inn stands in the picturesque, limestone hamlet of Foolow. The pub is all about old school done exceptionally well!
The Plough Inn, Hathersage
Set on the banks of the River Derwent, The Plough dates back to the 16th century and has been welcoming tourists and locals ever since.
Fox House Pub, Longshaw.
Dating back to 1773, the building was extended by The Duke of Rutland, the landlord in the 1840’s. With years of heritage, The Fox House was a favoured resting place for livestock drivers and the passengers of stage coaches.
Chequers Inn Froggatt, Froggatt
The Chequers Inn is a 16th century pub which sits beneath the picturesque Froggatt Edge. Homemade food and a fantastic selection of wines / beers and gins.
The Wheatsheaf, Baslow
The Wheatsheaf Baslow is set in an imposing 18th century coach house. Nestled in the Peak District right next to Chatsworth Park.
Resteraunts:
Curry Cottage at Lovers Leap, The Dale, Stoney Middleton
At Curry Cottage you will find a wide selection of vegetarian and non vegetarian dishes using only the freshest ingredients and following traditional recipes from authentic Indian cooking. From mild and creamy to fiery and bold, there’s something for everyone. In any case, it will be a little journey to India’s flavours and colours.
The Maynard Arms, Grindleford
The ethos behind their menus is simple: it must be local, fresh, accessible and food that guests would want to enjoy. They have worked hard in designing menus to suit all diets and dietary requirements having numerous options for guests, which include healthier eating options and plant based diets. They have adapted many of their dishes to be naturally gluten free without impacting the flavours and textures to those who aren’t
Fischer’s, Baslow
Award winning manor house restaurant set in a beautiful location. Relax and enjoy fine dining at its best, the dining room is classically set with white tablecloths and sparkling tableware. They have perfected the art of wine and food harmony, heightening flavours, and making each and every ingredient sing. Definitely a place to visit if you are celebrating a special occasion.
The Cavendish Hotel, Baslow
Fine dining of the highest standard. Serving simple, yet imaginative food using locally sourced produce. There are a couple of stylish restaurants to choose to dine in or you could book yourself a table in their busy kitchen and experience what a typical service looks like. Alternatively it is a lovely place to enjoy proper afternoon tea.
The Woodyard, Bakewell
Great location by the river in Bakewell for a family friendly restaurant. Built in 1810 as a Marble Works. Some of the main features of the mill are still visible in the restaurant. The Woodyard offers a relaxed and friendly environment accompanied with fresh, homemade food. They have extensive seating in their amazing beer garden, which is the only beer garden in Bakewell which over looks the River Wye.
Cafe’s
Eyam Tea Rooms, Eyam
Originally a dance hall for the Bold Rodney Inn before being converted in 1912, the cafe prides itself on quality food and service. This 17th century building overlooks Eyam Square, making this the perfect rest stop when visiting Eyam. This cafe is popular with those exploring Eyam and has a big following with cyclists as they offer purpose built bike stands and a Polaris bike repair kit.
Village Green Cafe, Eyam
This family run Indie Cafe, is set in the heart of Eyam Square. They are passionate about great coffee and quality food. Enjoy delicious home made meals in this small but popular cafe from breakfast, brunch, lunch and fabulous cakes.
The Cupola Cafe-Bar-Pizza-Grill, Stoney Middleton
The cafe has a great little reputation for good service and good food. The Cupola incorporates a small visitor centre providing information about Stoney Middleton and the surrounding area.
Hassop Station Cafe & Bookshop, Hassop
A very popular cafe due to its location right on the Monsal Trail. Enjoy brunch, lunch or afternoon tea on the terrace overlooking the renown Monsal Trail or in the refurbished station building. A great place to visit before or after a walk or cycling on the Monsal Trail.
Hathersage Pool Cafe, Hathersage
The Hathersage Pool Cafe is a popular cafe not just with the swimmers but is frequented by many locals on a regular basis. There are plenty of options on the menu from light bites to something more substantial. A great place to stop after a visit to Hathersage.
Hobbs Café, Monsal Head
Situated at Monsal Head this cosy café offers stunning views of Monsal Dale and the Monsal Trail. The cafe offers a very limited menu choice so it’s the place to stop for coffee and a cake or an expensive ice cream while you take in the views!
The Edensor Tea Cottage, Edensor, Chatsworth Estate
The Edensor Tea Cottage is a Tea Room and Restaurant on the Chatsworth Estate in the popular little village of Edensor. Their goal is to deliver great food with a very warm and friendly service. The menu is large for a tea room, offering a range of breakfast dishes as well as lunches and blackboard specials, all freshly made and locally sourced.
Chatsworth Farm Shop Cafe, Pilsley
The Chatsworth Farm Shop Cafe is locate on the Chatsworth Estate in the little village of Pilsley. Unwind at the cafe with a hearty meal, light bites, or a delectable afternoon tea. The cafe has lovely views overlooking the Chatsworth Estate and if you’re lucky enough you can watch the estate cows or sheep grazing while you dine.
Grindleford Station Cafe, Grindleford Station Approach
The Station House was built in 1898 to support the train station at Grindleford, however it was sold to the Eastwood family in 1973. The cafe has stayed in the Eastwood family for over 40 years. The cafe serves traditional hearty fare. The cafe is located at Grindleford Station and sits at the bottom of the National Trust Padley Gorge with the start of the Padley Gorge Trail close to the cafe.
Longshaw Estate Cafe, Longshaw
Longshaw Estate is part of the National Trust and is a great place to visit and explore Longshaw, Burbage and the Eastern Moors. The café is open daily, serving a range of hot and cold drinks, sandwiches and snacks, cakes, tray bakes and Hope Valley scoop ice cream to help you stay refreshed during your visit or after a long hike. Whether you dine inside or out, you will enjoy the stunning views overlooking Longshaw Estate and the Peak District beyond.