Top Things To Do in Britain’s Beautiful Peak District
How To Make the Most of the Your Visit to the Peak District of Great Britain
Here in Britain, we’re incredibly lucky in the sense that we don’t have to venture far to stumble upon some truly breathtaking countryside. Whether you like to drive, cycle, climb or hike, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors right here at home. Where better to place to start than with the first official national park in the UK? We are of course referring to the beautiful Peak District.
Covering sections of Derbyshire, Staffordshire, Cheshire, Greater Manchester and Yorkshire, the Peak District is 555 square miles of rugged moorland and stunning scenery. The southern Pennines are strewn with scenic footpaths, charming farms and some of the best roads in the UK. There’s loads to see, do and enjoy all year round. So, by car, foot or bike—make the most of the beautiful Peak District! Here’s our top 5 picks for things to do:
Take a Hike
The Peak District is one of the most popular destinations for those who like to explore Britain on foot. Once you’ve seen the stunning views on offer, it’s obvious why. What’s particularly handy about this area is that there’s a range of routes on offer to cater to all abilities. If you take your walking seriously, we recommend hiking the vast moors of the Dark Peak. Our favourite spots include the Vale of Edale and Kinder Scout.
Fancy something a little less strenuous? No problem. Why not wander the picturesque towns and villages of the White Peak—like Bakewell or Thorpe. Whichever you decide on, remember to pack wellies and a waterproof. Even at the height of summer, this part of the country is prone to the odd shower. It’s all part of the fun, though! Finally, walkers should reward themselves with a delicious meal in one of the many delightful country pubs dotted along the hills. You earned it!
Road Trippin’
To really be free to explore everything this national park has to offer, we recommend taking a car. Nestled between cliffs, spanning hilltops and meandering through woodland—in the Peak District you’ll experience some of the most incredible roads you’ve ever driven on. Motorheads and tourists alike are drawn to the area to take in the incredible views while mastering the twists and turns of these exhilarating drives.
The Snake Pass is perhaps the most famous of these popular roads. Taking you from Glossop to Sheffield, its path winds over dramatic moorland, cuts across the Pennine Way, eventually weaving through forest to leave you at Ladybower Reservoir. This really is one of the most spectacular journeys to take you across the Peak District. If you’re driving be sure to keep your eyes squarely on the road ahead, though, this is a route that requires your full attention!
This is just one of a number of great UK road trip ideas, check out more here.
Explore a Stately Home
We all like the chance to have a good nosey around grand old houses to see how the other half live. Judging by some of the lavish stately homes in the Peak District, they live very well indeed! Exploring the ornate rooms and impressive grounds of estates like Chatsworth House and Heddon Hall makes for a lovely day out.
The decor provides a glimpse into our rich history, walking the gardens is a treat for the eyes, and the cafes tend to do a belting tea and cake combo. When visiting Chatsworth, don’t forget to check out the farmhouse shop—you can pick up some delicious treats for friends and family, or stock up on snacks for the journey home!
Visit a Museum
For all you culture vultures, the Peak District has a number of galleries and museums that are definitely worth a visit. There’s the Old House Museum in Bakewell, a structure built during the reign of Henry VIII that now houses a fascinating range of artefacts and costumes. Or how about Revolution House in Chesterfield, where you can retrace the steps of those who plotted to overthrow James II.
The town of Buxton has a museum and gallery that have recently been redeveloped—plus the town itself is nice for an afternoon stroll. Though technically just outside of the Peak District, the World of Wedgewood is also a must see for anyone interested in art, pottery and elegant tea rooms.
Family Day Out
If you’re bringing the kids for a day out, you certainly won’t be short of options when it comes to entertainment. Beautiful countryside means plenty of farms, and many have parks and petting zoos for the kids to enjoy. Matlock Farm Park and Chatsworth Farm are both great options.
If you fancy something on the more adventurous side, you could sample the rides at Gulliver’s Kingdom, take in the views from the Heights of Abraham cable cars, or set off on an expedition into the caverns at Treak Cliff. Warning, the latter is not suitable for those of you who are claustrophobic!
