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
Who wouldn't want a romantic break in the Peak District? These former stables have been transformed into a stylish, contemporary holiday home which is ideal for couples but which can accommodate up to four people. There is a friendly pub just a five-minute stroll from the door, and stunning Curbar Edge is not much further. The Monsal Trail and favourite attractions like Chatsworth House, the Heights of Abraham, Gulliver's Kingdom, Bakewell and Buxton are all within easy reach to make The Stable convenient as well as comfortable.
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.
Spacious and stylish, The Cow Shed is an excellent choice for getting together with friends and family and centrally located close to Buxton in the heart of the Peak District National Park. Sleeping up to ten guests in five bedrooms, this welcoming holiday home is beautifully presented, has stunning views in every direction and a hot tub on the patio for relaxing at the end of the day. Perfectly placed, The Cow Shed is a mile from the Derbyshire village of Peak Forest with a pub for a pint or meal out. Available for weekend breaks only
The Haven is a luxury self-catering holiday cottage in the Peak District. It is located in the picturesque village of Two Dales, within walking distance of the village pub, cafe and shop and close to Bakewell and Matlock. It's wonderfully spacious, with five bedrooms to accommodate ten people. The layout is ideal for families, extended families or friends and includes a games room and an outdoor entertaining area with a barbecue and a covered hot tub. The High Peak Trail, Monsal Trail, Chatsworth House, Alton Towers, and the Heights of Abraham are just a few of many nearby attractions.
A cosy holiday cottage for two that makes a wonderful bolt-hole for exploring the Peak District National Park. There is a village pub a short walk away from Brookside Retreat and lovely walks from the village. Matlock and Bakewell are close by and the many attractions of the Peak District National Park are within easy reach.
Croft House Barn is a superb choice for families or friends. The Peak District holiday cottage has three ensuite bedrooms, one of which is downstairs and can be set up as a twin or a superking room to suit your needs. The modern Shaker kitchen is perfectly equipped for self-catering, but you're only a short stroll from the Red Lion village pub in Waterfall if you don't want to cook. Alton Towers, Chatsworth House, the Monsal and Tissington Trails, Bakewell, the museums of Derby and Stoke-on-Trent are just a few suggestions for fun days out. Tourist board rating: 4 Star Gold
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 cosy 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.
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 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. Your nearest neighbours are sheep and lambs 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 or 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.
This charming holiday cottage is in a quiet location only a few minutes' walks from Buxton's shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants. It's perfect for couples or groups of four who want a central place from which to explore the Peak District's favourite attractions like Chatsworth House and Haddon Hall, with easy access to stunning walks and breathtaking views. Bakewell, Matlock, Alton Towers and Poole's Cavern are all close, and guests can hire bikes in town to cycle the Monsal Trail and other local routes. Buxton's position as the highest town in England means the views are always incredible. With a full calendar of fun events, it's always a great time to visit and enjoy a stay in Hummingbird Cottage. Netflix has recently been added so even if the weather is not fit to explore the fabulous Buxton, then entertainment is still available in the cottage!
Damson Cottage is a comfortable holiday rental, situated just outside the village of Carsington, a ideal location for exploring the beautiful Derbyshire Dales. Carsington Water with its many attractions, water sports and trails is close by and the Peak District is within easy reach with even more fantastic sights and attractions. You'll easily fill your days with joy whether you're walking or cycling the Monsal Trail, boating on the reservoir, admiring the grandeur of Chatsworth House, shopping at Bakewell's Monday market, or simply setting out and seeing where the day takes you. The one-bedroom cottage is ideal for couples or individuals.
Crabtree Cottage is a comfortable barn conversion, just outside the village of Carsington, located in the Derbyshire Dales, close to the Peak District National Park. It sleeps six people in three bedrooms and is ideal for active families who want to get out on nearby Carsington Water, walk and cycle the Monsal Trail, High Peak Trail and other fantastic routes. Explore the beauty of places like Chatsworth House, Haddon Hall, Tissington village or many National Trust properties, or experience the thrills of Alton Towers. There is no limit to the amount of fun you can have while staying in this welcoming home-away-from-home that is available for bookings all year round.
Enjoy the stunning Peak District from the comfort of this gorgeous first-floor apartment in a beautifully converted barn. Grange Barn is located at the owner's property in Ashford in the Water, within walking distance of two pubs and the village's famous 17th Century Sheepwash Bridge. It's less than two miles from Bakewell and close to the Monsal Trail and Chatsworth House. There are gorgeous walks from the door and lots of choice for road cycling and mountain biking. The Peak District is spectacular in every season, so book yourself a romantic escape in this wonderful holiday rental.
This luxury self-catering cottage in Bakewell provides all you can want and need for your staycation in the Peak District. 2 Lumford House sleeps up to six people in three bedrooms (one ensuite) with a gorgeous country decor inspired by the age of the house and the surrounding countryside. 2 Lumford House offers peace and tranquillity overlooking the River Wye and is only a ten-minute stroll from Bakewell's shops, cafes, restaurants and market. It's convenient for Chatsworth House, the Monsal Trail, Buxton, Hardwick Hall and other favourite sights and attractions in the Peak District. Holiday bookings are available all year round with short breaks (minimum of three nights) possible depending on availability.
You don't have to decide between town and country when you stay at 3 Riverside Cottage. The pretty period cottage is only a short walk from the centre of Bakewell, yet close to the beautiful countryside that attracts countless visitors to the Peak District National Park every year. Chatsworth House, Haddon Hall, Buxton and Alton Towers are all within easy reach of this pretty period cottage which comfortably accommodates up to six people in three bedrooms and is ideal for couples and families.
This charming stone cottage is in a quiet location and only a five-minute stroll along the river from the centre of Bakewell. It can accommodate up to six people in two lovely bedrooms, with a layout that makes it ideal for couples as well as families. Everything you need for a relaxing self-catering cottage holiday in the Peak District National Park is included; and with the historic Bakewell market on the doorstep together with an array of shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants, eating well is not a problem. Chatsworth House, Haddon Hall, Buxton and Tideswell are just a few of the many places to visit during your stay, and there are fantastic footpaths and cycling routes from the door.
Whatever the season, whatever the reason, escape to the beauty of Bakewell and the Peak District National Park. 1 Riverside Cottage is the ideal place for visitors who appreciate top quality delivered without fuss. The self-catering cottage, which is one of three holiday homes to rent, sits beside the River Wye and is only a few minutes' walk to the centre of Bakewell. Dating from the 18th Century, the cottage has been carefully and exquisitely restored and updated for today's modern guests. If you are looking for a place to stay that is convenient to Peak District sights like Buxton and Chatsworth House, 1 Riverside Cottage is perfect at any time of the year.
A stone holiday home ideally located a ten minute walk from the centre of the market town of Bakewell. This small market town sits in the heart of the Peak District National Park and is ideally located for enjoying outdoor activities or visiting the many attractions of the area including nearby Chatsworth House. Hosting lots of festivals throughout the year, Bakewell is a joy to visit whatever the season.
Hartshill is a modern stone holiday home located ten minutes walking distance from the centre of popular Bakewell. This small bustling market town is situated in the Peak District National Park and is perfect for visiting the many attractions of the area or enjoying outdoor activities.
Popular towns in and around The Peak District:
AshbourneBakewellBuxtonChesterfieldLeekMatlockSome 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.
