Rivalling the Lakes, the Peak District has its fair share of lakes and reservoirs which add to the charm of this tranquil setting. Carsington Water is the largest and offers a wide range of water-based activities for all levels.
This is nature's playground at its very best and a superb setting for enjoying outdoor activities including walking, climbing, cycling, horse-riding, pot-holing, fishing and canoeing to name just a few. Rich in flora and fauna, the area attracts wildlife enthusiasts and photographers, who want to capture its pure natural beauty.
The Peak District is the oldest National Park in the British Isles and is located in Central and Northern England, making it one of the most frequently visited. Easily accessible, it provides a perfect environment for enjoying country living in the serene setting of the Derbyshire Dales. Read more
The Orchards' views are so beautiful that you will be mentally moving in before the end of the stay. This lovely holiday cottage is near the village of Ilam in the Peak District National Park, surrounded by fields and woodland on the owner's farm. There are no near neighbours (unless you count the horses and lambs in the meadow!) and no passing traffic to interrupt your peace and privacy. The opportunities for walking and cycling are plentiful, and The Orchards is within easy reach of favourite attractions like Chatsworth House and Alton Towers. It sleeps six people in three bedrooms and is ideal for families and couples.
A single storey self-catering cottage in the heart of the picturesque Peak District within easy reach of Bakewell, providing an ideal base for visiting the many local attractions of the area. Maigold Cottage is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the peace, tranquility, lovely views and superb walking and cycling on the doorstep. Wi-Fi and off-road parking for two cars.
Albertine Barn has been converted into a lovely holiday cottage, accommodating up to eight guests. With exceptional views across the Peak District countryside, this is a perfect place to relax, enjoy excellent walks or visit the attractions of the area. Wi-Fi and off road parking for four cars.
Discover the delights of the Derbyshire Dales from this charming cottage near Ashbourne. The Cottage is a self-catering holiday home for up to four adults, featuring two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a private enclosed garden. It's ideal for walking and cycling holidays, being close to the southern Peak District and Carsington Water. The surrounding area has lots of charming market towns and picturesque villages, including Matlock and Bakewell. Other local attractions include Chatsworth House and Alton Towers. There are two pubs within walking distance, and the property is dog-friendly.
The Peak District National Park and the beautiful Dovedale Valley are on the doorstep of this charming late-Victorian holiday cottage in Ashbourne. Aldergrove Cottage is half a mile from the centre of this historic market town, putting everything you need for a self-catering stay within a ten-minute walk. It's fantastic for walkers and cyclists who can access the Tissington Trail and Manifold Way, among other popular routes, and convenient for Chatsworth House, Alton Towers, Buxton, Bakewell, and Matlock Bath. Aldergrove Cottage sleeps four people in two bedrooms and suits couples, families and friends.
Hog Cottage is located a short stroll from the heart of the Derbyshire market town of Wirksworth on the outskirts of the Peak District National Park. Offering cosy self catering holiday accommodation for four guests, the cottage is an ideal base for exploring the areas many attractions and taking advantage of the outdoor activities available in this vast outdoor playground.
Discover the allure of Shepherd's Cottage, a picturesque 5-star retreat approved by Visit England Tourist Board. Embrace the charm of two beautifully appointed bedrooms—one graced with a luxurious king-sized bed, the other with twin beds. Experience the convenience of two well-equipped bathrooms, including a relaxing upstairs bath and a practical downstairs shower room. This cozy abode accommodates up to four guests, showcasing original oak beams that accentuate its heritage. Stay snug with central heating, an electric log fire, and double-glazed windows. Entertainment awaits with a smart TV, Free sat, and high-speed Wi-Fi, while the kitchen boasts modern amenities like an oven, hob, microwave, dishwasher, and fridge-freezer. Your comfort is our priority, with complimentary access to a laundry room featuring a washing machine and tumble dryer. Unwind in the private parking area and outdoor seating, offering stunning views of the valley and Castleton. Book your stay at Shepherd's Cottage for a harmonious blend of comfort and scenic splendour.
The Peak District National Park is one of the nation's favourite holiday destinations not only for the stunning scenery but for the friendly towns and villages like Chelmorton, where James Cottage is located. This charming holiday home sleeps up to four people in two bedrooms, with a layout that is ideal for couples, families or friends. It's a short walk from the excellent local pub, five miles from Buxton and within easy reach of places like Bakewell and Chatsworth House. James Cottage is available for short breaks and longer stays all year round.
A luxury 2 bedroom period stone holiday cottage, near Chatsworth House in the Peak District. Situated in the gorgeous village of Baslow, it sleeps 2-4 people and is ideal for walkers. Perfectly located within walking distance of the village green, shops, pubs and an award winning restaurant. There are lovely walks from the door, including routes beside the River Derwent and and up onto Baslow edge. Bakewell and Buxton are also within easy reach, as are favourite attractions like Haddon Hall and Pooles Cavern. Hall Cottage is perfect for couples, friends or families with older children.
Families, multi-generational families and friends love Morridge View. The spacious barn conversion is four miles from Leek in the Peak District village of Onecoat. There is space for ten people to sleep in five beautiful bedrooms, three with an ensuite bathroom and one accessible for guests who use a wheelchair. It is available for self-catering holiday bookings in all seasons. Attractions local to the 4-Star Gold holiday cottage include Chatsworth House, Alton Towers, The Roaches, and the Monsal Trail. It's an excellent location for a walking or cycling holiday in the Peak District and Staffordshire. Tourist board rating: 4 Star Gold
Mixon View is a newly renovated barn with all the 5 Star luxuries couples look for in a romantic holiday cottage. It's within the courtyard of Lane Head Farm – one of the oldest farms in Onecote in the Peak District National Park. Leek, and the stunning sights and attractions that make the Peak District one of Britain's favourite holiday destinations, are all within easy reach. You'll love the views of fields and farmland from both the house and the garden and the gorgeous footpaths and bike routes from the door. The one-bedroom cottage has been finished and furnished to a very high standard. It's a stunning spot for your next holiday. Tourist board rating: 5 Star
Ashford Mill gives guests a rare opportunity to stay in a Grade-II listed riverside holiday cottage in the Peak District. The winner of multiple awards for the high standard of renovation and accommodation, the holiday home sleeps seven people in three bedrooms with the option to sleep two more on a sofa bed. The mill is on the banks of the River Wye in Ashford on the Water, convenient for Bakewell, Buxton, Haddon Hall, Chatsworth House, and other popular Peak District attractions. Dogs are welcome and, depending on availability, short breaks are possible all year round.
If you love the idea of tucking yourself away in a romantic retreat which is a little different, then Haddy's Hut is perfect for you. This romantic shepherd's hut has everything couple's need for comfort, including underfloor heating and a log burner. It is the heart of the Peak District, on a family-run farm just outside the village of Hope and within walking distance of the 16th-Century Cheshire Cheese Inn. Nearby, beautiful footpaths lead to stunning locations, allowing you to combine a glamping-style holiday with some of the best sights and attractions in the Peak District.
Old Dairy Cottage is a fantastic country retreat for couples or individual travellers who want to immerse themselves in the heart of the Peak District National Park. The pretty stone cottage is on a family-run farm just outside the village of Hope and within walking distance of shops and a pub. Nearby attractions include Haddon Hall, Blue John Cavern, Peveril Castle, and Chatsworth House and Gardens. Buxton, Bakewell and Castleton are all only a short drive away, while Alton Towers, Manchester and Sheffield can be reached in around an hour. There are miles of stunning walks and mountain bike trails in the area, including beautiful walks to Win Hill, Lose Hill and The Derwent Dams.
This peaceful cottage is on the outskirts of Hope village in the heart of the Peak District National Park, close to Blue John Showcaves, Chatsworth House, Eyam, Buxton and Bakewell. The charming property has space for up to four people to sleep in two bedrooms as well as a sitting room with a log burner for snuggling up on winter nights. The stone cottage is ideal for families and couples, who appreciate that it is not only convenient for some of the Peak District's best sights but also because it is less than an hour by train from both Manchester and Sheffield.
This pretty stone holiday cottage is in the heart of the Peak District National Park. Manchester's Piccadilly station is less than an hour away, while Sheffield is even closer, making it easy to escape to the country with minimal effort. Losehill Cottage has space for up to four people to sleep in two bedrooms and is a favourite with couples and small families who appreciate being close to the welcoming village of Hope and within walking distance of the popular Cheshire Cheese Inn. Chatsworth, Bakewell and Buxton are all within easy reach, as are beautiful walks and bike rides.
Surrounded by glorious scenery, The Haybarn is ideally placed inside the Peak District National Park and is a great choice for families as well as couples who appreciate a high standard of holiday accommodation and the chance to enjoy outdoor activities. Beautiful dales, dramatic highlands, picturesque little villages, ancient towns and an abundance of attractions are just waiting to be enjoyed as well as pubs, eateries and shops nearby for convenience. Tourist board rating: 5 Star
An idyllic and private location set in some of the most spectacular scenery in the National Park. The perfect, romantic self-catering retreat for couples wanting comfort and luxury whilst on holiday. Explore lush, peaceful dales and wild romantic highlands or visit pretty villages with lovely old churches and ancient inns. Shops, pubs and wonderful places to eat close-by. Tourist board rating: 5 Star Gold
An 18th Century stable block converted into a luxurious, detached holiday cottage surrounded by some of the most spectacular scenery in the Peak District National Park. Deluxe kitchen and fabulous lounge with wood burning stove. Lush peaceful dales, dramatic romantic highlands, pretty villages and many family attractions, along with shops, pubs and wonderful places to eat close-by. Tourist board rating: 4 Star Gold
Lovingly Restored Grade II Listed Stone Barn Now a Celebration House for Groups of 16+2 in the pretty Derbyshire village of Carsington, in the Derbyshire Dales. A wonderful location for walking, cycling, climbing, water sports & fishing. With a lovely Village Pub just a stroll from the Barn. Emily Barn is perfect for families & friends wanting to holiday or celebrate a special occasion. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Popular towns in and around The Peak District:
AshbourneBakewellBuxtonLeekMatlockSome local suggestions:
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Bustling market towns and pretty little villages nestle amongst beautiful countryside offering farmer's markets, independent shops, country pubs and restaurants. Some of the most popular towns include Bakewell, the picturesque riverside market town, the spa town of Buxton, host to many festivals and events and Ashbourne, a fine old market town with interesting shops and antiques. The cosmopolitan city of Derby offers buzzing nightlife and beautiful little villages such as Ashover and Matlock Bath offer a taste of country living in the Derbyshire Dales.
Before booking your holiday cottage in the Peak District, you can find all the information you need for your trip here. For more tips, check out our complete Peak District Guide.
Each season in the Peak District brings its own unique magic. From the warmer sunny days of summer to the milder, blue skies of spring and the frosty, cold winters. Whatever the weather, you will be sure to find plenty of interesting things to do all in a beautiful setting.
Summers in the Peak District offer a mix of mild and warm days, with infrequent hotter days. There is also more daylight throughout summer, so you get more time to explore the great outdoors. Temperatures average around 20°C, making it a pleasant and comfortable time to visit.
The Peak District in spring is utterly breathtaking, with an array of spring flowers popping up all over the gardens and countryside. This is an excellent time to visit for those seeking to get active in the outdoors as the temperatures drop to around 14°C, making for comfortable hiking weather.
Winter in the Peak District is utterly magical. You will find frozen landscapes at every turn, festive lights illuminating the quaint towns and villages and numerous Christmas markets scattered throughout the county. Get cosy by the fire, or bundle up and head outdoors to witness the snow-capped peaks and brisk winter air. Temperatures average around 5°C in the Peak District during this time, so be sure to pack plenty of warm clothes.
Family attractions in the Peak District are plentiful (see our things to do in the Peak District guide for more info) – take a ride on a steam train or a cable car up to the Heights of Abraham where you can admire the view and explore the show caves. Spend a day in a country or wildlife park or learn about mining methods and discover the network of caverns that run under your feet at Temple Mine. Alternatively, enjoy a fun day at a theme park with Gulliver's Kingdom for the children and Alton Towers for the older kids!
If you are travelling from one of the major cities in the UK, below shows an average distance to the Peak District, so you know what to expect when choosing to visit by car.
London: 168 miles
Birmingham: 54 miles
Glasgow: 236 miles
Liverpool: 48 miles
Bristol: 148 miles
Manchester: 24 miles
Leeds: 31 miles
Edinburgh: 246 miles
Newcastle: 129 miles
There are multiple ways to travel to the Peak District. Its excellent public transport links mean you can journey by train or bus from many major UK cities. If you travel by car, there are some great service stations to stop off and rest up whilst on your trip, as well as alternative routes depending on what roads you prefer to drive on.
Rich in heritage, the Peak District has an abundance of fascinating historic sites to visit. Discover prehistoric rock art or visit the ruins of the Norman Fortress, Peveril Castle. Romantics will fall in love with Bolsover Castle and Chatsworth House and Gardens. Or be intrigued by the mysterious stone circles at Arbor Low and captivated by the Peakland traditions and customs that are evident wherever you go.
The Peak District is brimming with beautiful places. From its multiple lakes to its mighty peaks, there is beauty no matter where you look. However, Hope Valley is known to be one of the nicest parts of the Peak District. Its incredible views over winding rivers and tall peaks make it a breathtaking sight to visit.
The Peak District is widely known for its incredible walking routes, impressive lakes and multiple towering peaks. However, it is also renowned for its cave offering, with its deepest cave being over 400 metres below the surface.
When deciding to visit the Peak District, you can make this trip as expensive or inexpensive as you choose. If you aim to spend most of your time outdoors, hiking up to the numerous peaks, then you will find your visit to be much cheaper. However, if you plan to visit the many towns in the county to enjoy delicious food in cosy pubs, or perhaps shop in the many small, local stores, your stay here will be more expensive.
The great thing about the Peak District is that you can visit for a short weekend break, or a longer stay and still have much to do and see. If you plan to wander around the stately homes, check out the many walking trails and stroll through the quaint towns, 3-4 days should be enough time. However, if you choose to extend your stay, you will have plenty of things to do, all as impressive as the next.
