In this part of our Great British Outdoors series, we’re discovering the Peak District. The oldest national park in the UK, most of which lies in Derbyshire, this is nature’s playground at its very best. Around 500 square miles of remote moorland, deep valleys, glistening lakes and atmospheric caverns, broken up by tangles of ancient stone villages, historic houses and grand monuments; it’s the perfect backdrop for a huge variety of outdoor activities.
Located at the southern end of the Pennine mountains, the natural beauty of the Peak District National Park is defined by two contrasting landscapes: the rolling hills of the limestone White Peak and the rugged moorland of the dramatically named Dark Peak. These are a haven for nature lovers, photographers, and walkers alike, with footpaths and trails dominating the inspiring terrain, offering breathtaking views around almost every turn. However you choose to explore this beautiful part of the UK, we have a wonderful collection of holiday cottages in the Peak District which offer a welcome retreat after a fun-filled day of adventures in the outdoors.
10 best places to stay
Dog-friendly Peak District
Roam the moors with your canine companion
With wide open spaces to explore, fresh countryside scents to sniff and so many dog-friendly pubs to dine in – not to mention our wide range of dog-friendly cottages – you’d be barking mad not to visit the Peak District with your dog.
Dog-friendly days out
Activities
Head into the hills
Whether it’s a tough hike or cycle ride across plunging dales and soaring escarpments or a gentle stroll beside flowing streams, the Peak District has a scenic walking trail to cater for all abilities. If you’re hoping to get the heart pumping, you can conquer the iconic 268-mile Pennine Way, put your calves through their paces along the traffic-free Monsal Trail, or trek to the summit of Kinder Scout, the national park’s highest point. Check out our favourite walks in the Peak District.
For a change of scenery, delve deep underground on a subterranean adventure within one of the Peak District’s many atmospheric caves such as Poole’s Cavern, one of the most impressive show caves in England. You’ll find every water sport imaginable at the national park’s assortment of lakes and reservoirs, like Carsington Water or, if you’ve got a head for heights, you can enjoy some of the finest rock climbing in the world at Stanage Edge and The Roaches.
Of course, the Peak District isn’t just about the outdoors. There’s also an abundance of magnificent stately homes to explore, like Chatsworth House and Haddon Hall; exciting theme parks, such as Alton Towers and Gulliver’s Kingdom; and a treasure trove of unique family attractions, including The Heights of Abraham, where you can soar above the beautiful Derwent Valley within a cable car.
Top 10 things to do
Food and drink
Peaks, pubs and puddings
After making the most of the activities and attractions of the Peak District, you’re bound to have worked up an appetite. But did you know that this national park also boasts an incredible selection of places to eat and drink too?
Sampling fresh local produce is all part of the Peak District experience, and there are a wealth of pubs, restaurants and cafes, as well as farmers’ markets, breweries and delis where you can treat your taste buds to something unique and delicious.
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, head to The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop in the historic market town of Bakewell to pour a warm jug of cream over one of its famous Bakewell Puddings, treat yourself to a box of crumbly Ashbourne Gingerbread from the town of the same name, or try a tasty savoury Derbyshire Oatcake, topped with some delicious local cheese from Hartington.
For hearty homecooked meals washed down with local ales, choose from an array of cosy gastropubs peppered across the land, such as the Samuel Fox Country Inn in Bradwell or, for a fine dining experience to remember, pick one of the elegant Michelin-starred eateries like Fischer’s at Baslow Hall.
Best places to eat
Where to stay
Hillside houses and moorland manors
Nestled within bustling market towns, pretty villages and the wide-open countryside, our self-catering holiday cottages in the Peak District offer a special place to take the weight off your feet and unwind with those you love the most.
If you’re dreaming of a peaceful break surrounded by the verdant hills and wild moorland that the national park is famous for, we have a great selection of accommodation in Castleton, Hathersage and Hartington. Or if you’re looking for a traditional cottage in the heart of one of the Peak District’s picture-postcard villages and towns, pick one of our properties in Bakewell, Buxton, Ashbourne or Matlock Bath. With features like glowing wood burners, deep roll-top baths and beautiful gardens, you’re sure to feel right at home from the moment you arrive.
Reconnect with a group of friends in one of our large holiday homes, fill your days with fun activities at one of our family cottages for rent, or hide away with someone special in one of our romantic retreats for two. Why not invite your canine companions along to one of our dog-friendly cottages in the Peak District, or choose one with a hot tub for the ultimate luxury escape?
Cottages in the Peak District
