Britain can take justifiable pride in its network of National Parks. They continue to provide a choice of destinations where visitors can enjoy the truly unique and distinctive quality of natural England.
The original National Park was created in the Peak District and long provided the pattern for the many more that would follow. It’s little surprise that the rugged moorland, craggy peaks, and tranquil villages of the Peak District became the focus for such special attention.
A visit to the Peak District – set in the wider county of Derbyshire itself – repays that special attention still today. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why.
The Great Outdoors
The stunning landscapes and breathtaking view throughout the Peak District capture the reasons why it became the first National Park and why it remains so firmly in the hearts of many visitors today.
The moorlands, rolling hills, and limestone dales offer the perfect backdrop to every kind of outdoor activity – whether that’s biking or hiking, rock climbing or underground caving, or the more sedate pursuits of photography or simply relaxing to take it all in.
For the truly adventurous, the 268-mile (431km) Pennine Way starts in the Peak District village of Edale before wending its way along the backbone of England all the way into Scotland.
Buxton
Buxton lies on the edge of the National Park in the Borough of High Peak of Derbyshire and is the highest market town in England. Buxton is a fine example of one of the country’s most iconic spa towns and manages to combine the best of both town and countryside.
The Georgian spa has been recently renovated so that the magnificent Pump Room and Crescent can take you back to the town’s glory days.
You can even taste an authentic – and free drop – of health-giving Buxton water from St Ann’s Well opposite the Crescent.
Further reading: Buxton: Things to do and see
Bakewell
The small market town of Bakewell is often known as the capital of the Peak District.
It’s situated on the banks of the River Wye in the county’s White Peaks district of the National Park and is perhaps best known for giving its name to the well-loved Bakewell tart. But it’s not just the puff pastry and almond confection to set your taste buds alive – Bakewell is also home to many artisan bakers, brewers, and cheese makers.
Bakewell is a town where you can relax. Tucked away amidst beautiful countryside, you’ll find an impressive selection of cosy tearooms, an old-style weekly market, a five-arched bridge dating back to the Roman era, sturdy stone-built buildings, alms houses, a museum and an array of riverside charms.
Read our Topley Head Farm CL, nr Bakewell, Derbyshire site review.
Chatsworth House
In the heart of the Peak District National Park lies the majestic splendour of Chatsworth House – home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire. You’ll pay to enter the Grade I listed house, but the 105 acres of gardens and 1,800 acres of woodland and parkland are free to enjoy the whole year round.
Chatsworth is one of England’s finest stately homes and there are various special events staged throughout the year. What is more, the estate also boasts inns and cottages, shops, and restaurants where you can make yourself feel properly at home – even if only for a night or two.
We also mention Chatsworth in our Autumnal break ideas blog.
Caves and Caverns
Once you’ve sampled some of the above-ground splendours of the Peak District and Derbyshire, it might be time to head down under.
This is a region renowned for its caves and caverns – whether naturally occurring or the legacy of past mining activities. Not only do these offer a unique subterranean atmosphere but they come with some ripe names and descriptions.
The spectacular natural phenomenon that is the Peak Cavern, for instance, is also known as the “devil’s ar&e”. Other adventures include taking the cable car to the Heights of Abraham above Buxton and exploring the underground wonders of Poole’s Cavern.
Meanwhile Neanderthal men are believed to have taken shelter at Creswell Crags. Or you might want to take an amazing underground boat journey through Speedwell Cavern at Castleton.
Chesterfield
If you’re still pining for the bright lights and a spot of retail therapy, a trip to the Derbyshire town of Chesterfield might fit the bill.
The ancient market town will gently ease you back into the hustle and bustle of more urban life with its shops, restaurants, and bars. There are independent shops and cafes lining the old thoroughfare of the Shambles, while the Pavements and Vicar Lane offer the modern take on shopping centres.
While you’re wandering around Chesterfield, the iconic 228ft crooked and twisted spire of the church of Saint Mary and All Saints is always in view and seems to dominate the skyline wherever you are in the town.