The Peak District National Park, hidden in the middle of England, is home to some of the most fantastic scenery, wildlife, and small villages you can find in the UK. We often overlook the sheer beauty of this place, partly because its location doesn’t exactly spark images of rolling hills, dense woodland, or impressive rivers and lakes. The reality is that the Peak District is simply stunning and is far more accessible to most of the UK’s population than the Lake District, the Highlands, or Snowdonia. 

1. Castleton 

Hidden in deep within the park is Castleton – a small village with some impressive character. The centre of Castleton has several shops, pubs, and car parks, making it a great base camp for a day out walking. There’s also a fantastic driving road nearby (Winnats Pass), as well as some interesting-sounding attractions – The Devil’s Arse has a great cave tour you can take part in, (if you can stop giggling at the name). I’d recommend Castleton as a good starting point if it’s your first time in the Peak District – it’s got some fantastic scenery, but also a few creature comforts.

2. Ladybower Reservoir 

Ladybower Reservoir, while it doesn’t sound that interesting, is actually a fantastic walk. Situated in the Upper Derwent Valley, the reservoir is a year-round beauty spot, with rolling hills, dense woodland, and an easy footpath around, Ladybower is a great place to visit in the Peak District if you’re after a relaxing walk.

3. Bakewell

(Yes, like the tart) –  Bakewell is the quintessential British town. When people come to visit England, they will likely think of something that looks exactly like Bakewell. Stone buildings, narrow streets, and a number of small retailers make up this a picturesque little English town that sums up the Peak District nicely. I’d recommend it to anyone who wants to travel back in time while enjoying some beautiful Derbyshire scenery.

4. Mam Tor

Stepping away from the comfort of cosy English towns and pleasant reservoir walks, we arrive at Mam Tor, one of the most (in my opinion) draw-dropping landscapes in the Peak District. It’s an incredibly popular location for walkers – and you can see why! The circular walk is both easily accessible (via a National Trust car park), and naturally stunning. With draw-dropping sunsets on a clear day and scenery that you’d think belonged in Scotland or Wales, this is a must-visit for anyone looking exploring Derbyshire. For more information on this walk, visit the National Trust website.

5. Thor’s Cave

If you’re up for a pretty cool Instagram photo, you should absolutely visit Thor’s Cave near the village of Wetton. Set in the side of a limestone cliff, the cave is accessible from a nearby footpath. You can easily get inside the cave, and it’s got a pretty cool view of the surrounding scenery. Lots of people come here to take some impressive looking photographs. In fact, the whole area around Thor’s Cave makes a nice walk, but if you’re around Wetton, you must make a trip here – you won’t be disappointed.

6. The Roaches

If you’re after more of an adventure, you should visit the Roaches in Staffordshire. Located near Tittesworth Reservoir, this rugged gritstone ridge overlooking the valley below is a hiker’s paradise. A slightly more difficult walk than some of the ones we’ve covered here, but it’s worth it – the views are simply spectacular. You’ll also get some pretty cool photos here thanks to the famous Ramshaw Rocks forming the ‘Winking Man’ and the ‘Hen Cloud’, both overlooking the best of what the England has to offer. Make sure you visit here if you’re stopping by the Peak District.

7. Haddon Hall

If you like a bit of history and visiting stately homes, then Haddon Hall is not to be missed. This country house is one of the most beautiful in the country – it could be mistaken for a castle. With events taking place throughout the summer months, and acres of beautiful grounds to explore, this is a fantastic day out on your Peak District adventure. You can find out more about the hall on their website.