What do you consider to be luxurious? For some, it's designer clothing or a flash car. Some may salivate over a Michelin starred meal cooked by a famous chef, while others yearn for time to enjoy an amazing view or dream of a few days to themselves with no schedules or commitments. Whatever it is that makes your heart clench with desire, you'll find it in the Peak District National Park. This stunning region has glorious scenery, incredible houses, fantastic shopping and a wealth of luxury holiday cottages to rent with something to suit everyone from a solo adventurer to a dozen or more of your family and favourite friends. Read more
Grand Houses
Without a doubt, Chatsworth House is one of the finest country houses in England. The grand house dates back to the 1550s when Bess of Hardwick took it on as a building project. However, it was the 4th Earl of Devonshire who transformed the house into a homage of the “more is more” aesthetic, creating grand rooms which now house amazing collections and spectacular gardens designed by Capability Brown. Chatsworth House is unmissable, with a day here being a highlight of your Peak District holiday. Chatsworth runs a series of highly sought-after events throughout the year, including tours with the Duchess of Devonshire. Have a look at their website before your stay to see what’s on.
Chatsworth is not the only grand country house in the Peak District. Other stately homes to add to your itinerary include Haddon Hall, Peveril Castle, Sudbury Hall, and Renishaw Hall.
Sumptuous Meals
The Peak District is rich with talented chefs making good use of local, seasonal produce to tantalise taste buds and leave you with delicious memories. Top restaurants include Fischer’s Baslow Hall, The Peacock at Rowsley, and The Gallery at Cavendish Hotel, all of which have received a coveted three AA rosettes, and the Samuel Fox which has two rosettes. All are listed in the Michelin Guide. Alternatively, relax in the privacy of your holiday home and enjoy the service of a top private chef to create a meal for a special occasion, or fill your fridge with scrumptious food so you can eat well without worrying about cooking. Try Dionne at Scoff, Helen at Zest, and The Dinner Party Company.
Exclusive Views
The scenery in the Peak District will take your breath away, whether it’s of the top of a remote and rugged hilltop, beside a gently flowing stream, or from a bench of a landscaped garden designed to impress. Elevate your sightseeing experience - quite literally - in a hot air balloon. Wicker’s World can arrange flights over Chatsworth House, around Tissington Hall, and from Harpur Hall.
Flying High
The Derbyshire Wye is famous for excellent fly-fishing, with anglers enjoying the opportunity to fish the only river in the UK with both brown and rainbow trout. The Haddon Estate is perfectly located for fly fishing, with not only the Wye but also the Derwent, Bradford and Latkill Rivers passing through its borders. Alternatively, experience the magic of fishing the Dove River with the expertise of Andy Buckley, a local guide who knows the river better than anyone, and who offers private sessions for no more than two rods.
5-Star Spa
Buxton was a holiday destination of choice for fashionable Georgians, who used John Carr of York to create an elegant Crescent to rival that of Bath. Buxton Crescent sits above a natural spring and mineral baths where guests can enjoy spa treatments that will leave them feeling revitalised and rejuvenated.
The Peak District's spectacular landscape makes it a wonderful choice for a holiday destination in any season, so any time is an excellent time to indulge in its many delights.
