Walking holidays in the Peak District
The Peak District has earned its place in the walking holiday hall of fame. In 1951, it was the UK’s first area to be designated a protected national park. And justifiably so. Rolling out across the southern Pennines, it’s a picture of lonely heather-clad moorland, limestone dales, and rocky gritstone edges. Head out on walks that take you through historic country estates and dramatic scenery in the heart of Britain.
Walk through Britain’s history and heritage
Peak District walking holidays never fail to enchant. And with one of our characterful country houses as a base, you’ll be within rolling-out-of bed distance from all the big-name attractions and walk-worthy trails. Follow paths along the fast-flowing waters of the River Derwent and find out how it helped fuel Britain’s 18th century industrial boom with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Derwent Valley cotton mills.
The heritage of the region stretches back even further at Chatsworth House. Owned by the dukes and earls of the Devonshire family for centuries, this opulent country pile was once the gilded cage of Mary, Queen of Scots on the orders of Elizabeth I in 1569. Roam around the enormous, well-groomed gardens of Chatsworth Park or tour the house itself to marvel at a palace filled with lavishly decorated drawing rooms, artworks, and antique furnishings.
Trek the Peak District’s most rewarding routes
For serious walkers, the Gritstone Way is a winner. One of the Peak District’s premier walking routes, it ticks off the rugged gritstone ridges around the Roaches and the impressive Stanage Edge – a series of cliff faces and rocky escarpments so formidable, they’re often used as a training ground for mountaineers heading to the Himalayas.
Equally spectacular is the cone-shaped Thorpe Cloud, a limestone hill at the southern end of Dovedale and along the rolling green hills of the Staffordshire-Derbyshire border. And don’t miss Mam Tor. Also known as Mother Hill, she stands 517 metres tall and will take good care of you where standout views are concerned.
When it’s time to take a break, traditional, stone-built mill towns, and riverbank-perched villages beckon you in with the promise of tea rooms and country pubs. Wander around the cobbled lanes of Belper, reward yourself with a cold pint in Castleton or visit Bakewell to sample a sweet Bakewell pudding – not to be confused with the equally delicious Bakewell tart.
