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
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.
Matlock offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation with so much to explore on the doorstep. River Walk is a Modern Contemporary self-catering holiday home sleeping eight guests over 3 floors consisting of four bedrooms. First Floor : 1 King- size with en suite. 1 Twin Room Family Bathroom . Second Floor : One Kingsize room and one Double Room. It has a seating Area on landing a great area for those quite reading moments. There is also an option of a Travel Cot. The property also has a Downstairs Toilet. River Walk location offers so much from the doorstep easy reach to the town centre's shops, cafes and restaurants. Matlock Bath is a 15 minute walk where Amusements / Cable Cars / Gullivers Kingdom and so much more to explore . The property has secure gardens & pet friendly with 1 Allocated parking space with an option of an over night car park just a few yards up from the property should you need to use it for any extra cars you may have .
Whimsy by the Peaks is a dog-friendly stone holiday cottage in the Derbyshire Dales village of Tansley, just outside Matlock on the edge of the Peak District National Park. It sleeps up to 5 in 3 bedrooms and has a cosy sitting room with log burner, an enclosed garden with hillside views, stone bike store, and private parking. Two great pubs serving food are just a short walk away, and there are wonderful walks from the door, including routes through the dramatic Lumsdale Valley. Ideal for couples or small families, it’s a brilliant base for exploring the Derbyshire Dales, Chatsworth, Bakewell, and all the walking, cycling and scenery the Peaks have to offer. COMING SOON - 7KW untethered EV charger. Whimsy by the Peaks is having an EV charging point installed in November next to the private parking space. It can be operated using an app or a QR code connecting to a website, and is Pay As You Go.
As long as you've got the legs for it, you won't need a car once you arrive at Barn Cottage. The pretty one-bedroom cottage is in the Peak District village of Birchover, within walking distance of two friendly pubs serving food and having direct access to footpaths and cycling routes from the door. Walking, bouldering, caving and climbing are all popular, as are mountain biking and road cycling. Bakewell and Chatsworth House are just over five miles away, with other local attractions, including the Heights of Abraham in Matlock Spa, Buxton, and Alton Towers. Barn Cottage is ideal for couples or individual visitors, offering comfortable accommodation in all seasons.
Brimming with character and charm, this exquisite five star holiday cottage sleeps up to sixteen guests (12+4) and is located in the Peak District National Park within the Derbyshire Dales. Ideal for large parties of friends or family who want to escape for a luxury break with five en-suite bedrooms (+ an additional one by arrangement), sauna and hot tub available to hire and extensive grounds with lovely rural views. The bustling market town of Ashbourne is just a mile away with good range of shops and eateries. Tourist board rating: 5 Star
A cosy home from home sitting on the Derbyshire/Staffordshire borders on the edge of the Peak District National Park. Enjoy the space of self-catering, the facilities of the holiday park for entertainment, and an abundance of attractions close by. Walking distance to Ashbourne and twenty minutes to Alton Towers by car.
Experience countryside charm at Gradbach Mill’s cosy Farmhouse. Nestled along the picturesque banks of the River Dane, this beautifully refurbished retreat blends modern comfort with rustic character. Enjoy private gardens, a games room, and a soothing hot tub, all within our shared 16-acre wooded grounds – a tranquil escape on the border of the Peak District and Staffordshire.
This cosy stone holiday cottage sits opposite the village green in Middleton by Wirksworth, just a short stroll from the pub. Eight The Green is a wonderful retreat for couples or solo travellers, offering easy access to some of the Peak District’s best walks and beauty spots. Spend your days exploring Middleton Moor, Wirksworth, Cromford, the High Peak Trail, and the Derwent Valley, and your evenings relaxing by the log burner before settling into your king-sized bed. The 200-year-old period charm is seamlessly blended with modern comforts, making this an ideal base for a self-catering stay.
With Alton Towers just twenty minutes away by car, the Peak District National Park on the doorstep and superb on-site facilities to keep the children and adults entertained, Callow Top Holiday Park is an excellent self-catering choice for a family holiday. There is a restaurant and outdoor pool on-site.
With two en-suite flexible bedrooms, a log burner and an indoor heated swimming pool, Wood Shed Cottage is perfect for families or couples (one or two) who want to relax and unwind in the glorious scenery of the Peak District National Park. Nestling in the picturesque Derbyshire hamlet of Bradbourne close to the market town of Ashbourne and just a mile from Carsington Water, there are an abundance of attractions close by, as well as the Tissington and High Peak Trails for walking and cycling. Family friendly pub serving food just a mile's walk away for meals out.
With incredible views and spectacular scenery every season, it's always a great time to visit the Peak District. Catherine Cottage is a charming period holiday home in the small village of Ashford-in-the-Water, just over a mile from Bakewell and within easy reach of Buxton, Chatsworth House and Haddon Hall. The Monsal Trail runs close to the village, and there's bike hire available locally if you need it. The cottage sleeps four people in two bedrooms and has many original features, including oak beams and a fireplace with a log burner. It's also dog-friendly.
Fenns Barn is a superb barn conversation with space for up to seven people to sleep in three bedrooms with a layout that suits families and friends, located on Fenns Farm in the beautiful Manifold Valley in the Peak District National Park. There are footpaths and cycling routes from the door and an excellent pub half a mile away in Butterton. It's perfect for a holiday at any time of the year as it is within easy reach of favourite attractions that include Chatsworth House and Alton Towers, and picturesque towns like Bakewell and Buxton.
Foggs' Barn enjoys a picturesque location with footpaths and cycling trails from the front door. Formerly used to house the cows, the barn has been brought back to life as a stylish holiday home which sleeps up to six people in three bedrooms. Located in the Manifold Valley in the Peak District National Park, Foggs' Barn is half a mile from the Black Lion pub in Butterton and within easy reach of Buxton, Bakewell, Chatsworth House, Alton Towers, World of Wedgewood and other favourite attractions. The layout is ideal for families or friends. The owners also have a second, similar holiday home and the two can be booked together to accommodate extended families or group of up to 14 friends.
The best of the Peak District National Park, Cheshire and Staffordshire are all within reach of Allmore Cottage. Surrounded by 14-acres of grounds, which include a coarse fishing pond, visitors can spend their days discovering the many attractions of the Peak District, relaxing or fishing on-site and walking for miles through beautiful countryside. The pet-friendly holiday cottage is light and spacious with a relaxing king-sized bedroom, cosy log burner and sunny conservatory, as well as a home gym and all the peace a couple could wish for. Tourist board rating: 4 Star Gold
Shepherd's Cottage – A Luxurious 5-Star Retreat in the Heart of the Peak District Escape to Shepherd’s Cottage, a Visit England 5-star approved holiday retreat set in the stunning Hope Valley. This charming countryside getaway combines modern comfort with rustic charm, making it the perfect choice for a relaxing break in the Peak District National Park. Beautifully Appointed Accommodation Sleeps up to 4 guests – Ideal for couples, families. Two elegant bedrooms – A luxurious king-size bed, twin beds in the other Two well-equipped bathrooms – An upstairs bath for relaxation and a downstairs shower room for convenience Original oak beams & cosy atmosphere – A true heritage escape Comfort & Central heating & electric log fire – Stay warm and cosy year-round Smart TV, Free sat & high-speed Wi-Fi – Enjoy entertainment Fully equipped kitchen – Includes oven, hob, microwave, dishwasher, and fridge-freezer Complimentary laundry access – Washing machine & tumble dryer available Breath-taking Views & Outdoor Space Private parking – Hassle-free arrival and secure parking Outdoor seating area – Relax and soak in panoramic views over the valley & Castleton Experience the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and natural beauty at Shepherd’s Cottage. Book your stay today and immerse yourself in the tranquil charm of the Peak District!
Welcome to Lake View Lodge, a beautifully refurbished, ground-floor holiday cottage set beside the tranquil waters of Foxholes Lake, just outside Matlock in the heart of the Derbyshire Dales.
Looking for a rural stay to relax and recharge? Hall Cottage is the perfect base to start your Peak District adventure and ensure you feel absolutely amazing during your holiday! A luxury 2 bedroom period stone holiday cottage, in the Peak District National Park and near to Chatsworth House, Hall Cottage is situated in the 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
Popular towns in and around The Peak District:
AshbourneBakewellBuxtonLeekMatlockSome local suggestions:
Dog friendly Peak District cottagesLuxury Peak District holiday cottagesPeak District cottages with a hot tubOr search further afield:
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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.
