Experience Derbyshire from the heart of the village at Eight The Green, a cosy stone cottage for two overlooking the green in the picturesque village of Middleton by Wirksworth, just a short stroll from two friendly pubs. This peaceful retreat suits couples or solo travellers, with walking and cycling routes from the doorstep and easy access to the Derbyshire Dales and Peak District. Explore the historic towns of Wirksworth, Matlock and Ashbourne, follow the High Peak Trail, or visit Cromford, the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. After a day of discovery, unwind in front of the wood burner before heading up to the king‑size bed. Blending 200‑year‑old charm with modern comforts, it’s an ideal base for a self‑catering break in every season.
Come and celebrate at Crow Pie Cottage! Perfect for three-generation family stays, Hen/Stags, friends' reunions and more. Beautiful 5/6 bedroomed cottage with plenty of space for everyone to relax and have fun. The cottage overlooks the Derwent Valley and river Derwent which runs through the village. The cottage comfortably accommodates up to 16 guests in five upstairs bedrooms and one downstairs snug off the living area with double full-sized double sofa-bed. There are gardens to the front and rear with BBQ and outside garden furniture and garden games including swingball and garden jenga. Matlock Bath is known as the seaside town without the sea and you'll soon see why! There are shops, pubs, restaurants, a live music venue and amusements all along the main promenades plus loads of things to do right here in the village including boat trips, cable car rides, a children's theme park, a nine hole indoor crazy golf, an aquarium and even a Victorian lido crammed with giant Koi Carp. The cottage is nestled on the hillside of Matlock bath looking down over the village in a quiet location just five minutes walk from all the hustle and bustle of the village. We've 4 parking spaces at the cottage which is a rarity in Matlock Bath, with further free on-street parking within 1 minute walk down the lane. We don't take pets, so rest assured, if you or any of your party are allergic to pets/dander, you won't find it here.
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.
The Peak District is the perfect place for your weekend getaway, reunion, hen celebration, yoga retreat, or corporate event. The Lighthouse Barn is a stunning property in an unspoilt and very private location, with its own long drive and huge secure tarmac car parking area for up to 20 cars, with dawn to dusk lighting. It has the flexibility of sleeping 16-20 guests in eight ensuite bedrooms when combined with Coach House (approx. 30 metres away). The beautiful multi-functional celebration or events venue has enviable panoramic views over the surrounding rolling fields with pretty stone walling typical of the Peak District. Boasting high-quality fixtures and furnishings, and ample space for all your fun plans. Guests rave about the area, how welcoming the property feels, and how easy the owners made it to plan their special occasion with a large group of family and friends. Tourist board rating: 5 Star
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
Couples love Hillside Cottage not only for its proximity to fantastic Peak District walks but for its Victorian charm and contemporary comforts. The owner has taken great care to ensure that the holiday cottage provides everything you need for a self-catering holiday, including a great night's sleep in a beautiful kingsized bed. The cottage is a ten-minute walk from the centre of Wirksworth and it is easy to reach shops, cafes and pubs like the Royal Oak. Chatsworth House, Bakewell, Matlock, Derby, and Buxton are all within a 30-minute drive, making this an ideal place for a Peak District holiday.
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.
A welcoming holiday cottage sitting in the Cheshire village of North Rode just a five minute drive from the Peak District National Park and within easy reach of Alton Towers, Chatsworth House, the cities of Chester, Manchester and a host of other attractions. Lovely country walks from the door.
This pretty one-bedroom self-catering cottage has everything you need for a romantic holiday. Tucked away in quiet rural village close to the Peak District National Park and within easy reach of Manchester, Chester and Alton Towers, couples can plan a holiday that includes countryside walks and bike rides, spa days, shopping, history and culture.
One of our most outstanding lakeside cottages in the holiday village with designer interior, Kedleston is spacious, comfortable and comes equipped with everything you will need during a stay with us. Overlooking the lawn and lake, it’s ideal for BBQs too.
Sleeps 6/8 (3 bedrooms plus sofabed, 2 ensuites and 1 shared shower room)
Coulsden Cottage is a beautifully furnished country holiday cottage tucked away on the grounds of Ashford Hall Estate in Ashford on the Water. It is a short walk from the village shop, a good pub and two cafes, two miles from Bakewell and five miles from Chatsworth House. There is plenty of space for six people to sleep in three ensuite bedrooms, making it an ideal choice for families or friends who want to walk, cycle, and eat their way around the Peak District.
Planning a memorable holiday or event deserves a spectacular venue like Bleaklow Farm. This gorgeous property is a few miles from Bakewell in an incredibly peaceful location with panoramic views. It sleeps 30 people in 15 beautifully presented ensuite bedrooms and feels more like a boutique hotel than a self-catering holiday home. There is a catering standard kitchen, huge barn for entertaining (or corporate events), multiple living areas, spaces to congregate and socialise and areas to unwind in peace. It's ideal for hosting wedding parties, celebrating milestone birthdays and events, or hosting team building sessions.
The Carriage House is a beautifully furnished country holiday cottage tucked away on the grounds of Ashford Hall Estate in Ashford on the Water. It is a short walk from the village shop, a good pub and two cafes, two miles from Bakewell and five miles from Chatsworth House. There is plenty of space for six people to sleep in three ensuite bedrooms, making it an ideal choice for families or friends who want to walk, cycle, and eat their way around the Peak District.
Leapings Cottage has been extensively refurbished to provide luxurious holiday accommodation for large groups of up to twelve guests. Sitting in Yorkshire, close to the Peak District, guests can enjoy superb opportunities for outdoor adventures and attractions for day trips, alongside a high standard of self-catering that is perfect for large families, groups of friends wanting to catch-up or those looking to celebrate a special occasion.
Aitken House has impressed guests for a century. The owners have given this stunning three-storey house a sympathetic facelift to provide a high standard of accommodation for up to 10 guests in five beautiful bedrooms, with extras including a games room and an outdoor six-seater hot tub. The house is in the pretty village of Millhouse Green, less than a mile from the village shop/café and pub, and only two miles from the Peak District National Park. The Trans Pennine Trail passes close by, and there are gorgeous walks and bike rides from the door.
This character property is within walking distance of Thurlstone and its award-winning pub. The owners have carefully retained original features, like the gorgeous weaver's windows that let in lots of natural light, in the transformation of this building from utilitarian to luxurious with features like underfloor heating, a games room and an outdoor hot tub. Four lovely bedrooms sleep up to eight people, and the layout is ideal for families and friends. Thurlstone, Penistone and the Peak District National Park are all close, and there is a wealth of beautiful walks and bike rides from the door.
This riverside holiday cottage is in a peaceful rural location only a mile (and a 15-minute walk) from shops, cafes and pubs in Stocksbridge. The Peak District National Park is only two miles away and, being in the Pennines means there are miles of gorgeous walks and cycling routes from the door of Unsliven Bridge Barn. This dog-friendly conversion sleeps up to seven people in three bedrooms. It is ideal for families all year round, with thick stone walls and underfloor heating that keep it warm in winter, and a riverside garden for lazy summer barbecues.
Relax with your favourite people in this spacious luxury holiday house which dates back to the 1600s and blends modern features and luxurious touches that appeal to contemporary guests. It is close to the Peak District and a mile from Stocksbridge, giving visitors easy access to shops, cafes, pubs and stunning footpaths and cycling routes through the Pennines and the national park. There is space for up to 15 people to sleep in seven beautiful bedrooms, six of which are ensuite. Unsliven Bridge Farm is a warm, welcoming large holiday rental for extended families and friends, providing the perfect getaway at any time of year.
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Planning a holiday in the Peak District? Our guide covers the best places to stay, things to do, when to visit and how to get around, helping you make the most of your trip. Explore our Peak District holiday cottages and start planning your countryside escape.
Located in the heart of England, the Peak District was Britain's first National Park, designated in 1951. It spans parts of Derbyshire, Cheshire, Staffordshire, Greater Manchester and South Yorkshire, making it easily accessible from many parts of the UK.
The Peak District has a mix of lively market towns, picturesque villages and peaceful countryside, with traditional pubs, independent shops and plenty of places to eat. The riverside town of Bakewell is a popular base for exploring the White Peak, while the spa town of Buxton is known for its architecture and cultural attractions. Ashbourne is another attractive market town, while Hope offers a base for exploring the Hope Valley and surrounding hills. For a livelier day out, Matlock Bath is known for its riverside setting and visitor attractions.
The Peak District is a rewarding destination throughout the year. Spring and summer bring longer days for walking, cycling and exploring villages, while autumn offers colourful landscapes and excellent photography opportunities. Winter is quieter, with crisp countryside walks and cosy evenings in traditional pubs. The best time to visit depends on whether you prefer outdoor adventures, milder weather or a more peaceful countryside escape.
Walking is one of the best ways to explore the Peak District, with routes ranging from gentle countryside strolls to challenging hikes across hills and moorland. Cycling, horse riding and rock climbing are also popular, while the region’s reservoirs, caves and dramatic landscapes offer plenty of opportunities to get outdoors and enjoy the scenery.
There’s more to the Peak District than its landscapes though. Families can enjoy attractions and activities such as taking 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. Or spend a day in a wildlife park such as Peak 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 at either Gulliver's Kingdom or nearby Alton Towers.
Rich in heritage, the Peak District also 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.
Travelling by train can be a convenient way to explore parts of the Peak District, particularly if you plan to visit villages and walking routes along its main railway lines. The Hope Valley Line connects Sheffield and Manchester, with stations including Hathersage, Hope and Edale. The Derwent Valley Line runs between Derby and Matlock, providing access to Matlock and the surrounding countryside. However, a car offers greater flexibility if you want to explore more remote villages and rural areas.
A long weekend of three to four days is a good starting point for exploring the Peak District. This gives you time to visit its picturesque towns and villages, discover historic houses and enjoy a few walking trails. A longer stay allows you to explore more of the National Park at a relaxed pace.
The Peak District is brimming with beautiful places so this really depends on what you are looking for. If you are after picturesque villages, rolling limestone valleys and scenic walking routes the market town of Bakewell and the surrounding villages in the White Peak are hard to beat.
For dramatic scenery, head towards the Dark Peak, where you’ll find rugged moorland, sweeping views and iconic landscapes around Kinder Scout, Mam Tor and Ladybower Reservoir. Hope Valley and the villages of Castleton, Edale and Hope are popular and all offer easy access to some of the National Park’s best-known walks with incredible views.
Explore more of the best places to visit in the Peak District here.
The Peak District is famous for its spectacular landscapes, picturesque villages and rich history. As Britain’s first National Park, it attracts visitors with its dramatic moorland, rolling hills, limestone valleys and scenic walking routes. Well-known landmarks include Mam Tor, Kinder Scout, Dovedale and Ladybower Reservoir. And for those who like to visit a tea room or two the infamous Bakewell tart should not be missed!
Yes, the Peak District is a great destination for family holidays, with activities for different ages and interests. Families can enjoy gentle walks, traffic-free cycling trails, cave visits, steam railways, wildlife attractions and adventure parks, alongside child-friendly cafés and traditional villages to explore.
The Peak District is an excellent destination to bring your four-legged friends on holiday. The miles of open countryside and beautiful landscapes make the Peak District a dog walker's paradise. From gentle riverside walks and peaceful valleys to more challenging routes across the hills and moors, there are plenty of opportunities to explore scenic walking trails. Many towns and villages also welcome dogs, with dog-friendly cafés, pubs and attractions making it easy to enjoy days out together. We also have a huge selection of dog friendly holiday cottages, perfect for your next adventure. Click here for a selection of dog friendly attractions and things to do in the Peak District.
Yes! While the Peak District is famous for its walking trails, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the area without taking on long hikes. Explore charming market towns and villages such as Bakewell, Castleton and Buxton, visit impressive historic houses and attractions, or enjoy a scenic drive through the countryside. You can also discover local cafés, traditional pubs, independent shops and galleries along the way.
For a more relaxed day out, take a scenic train journey, enjoy a leisurely cycle on one of the region’s traffic-free trails, or visit attractions such as Chatsworth House and the National Trust’s historic properties. The Peak District is just as enjoyable at a slower pace, making it a great destination for families, couples and anyone who wants to experience its beautiful scenery without a walking boot in sight!