We went up to the Peak District for our Christmas break and it was the first time for a while that I have been there to explore properly. Other than trip to Chatsworth House about five years ago, I hadn’t been to the area since I was a lot younger. So what did we do? I have shared the local things that we did around the farmhouse we were staying at, but what else is there other than walks?
If you’re planning a trip to the Peak District, or just fancy popping in a trip to the north (or to the south, from the north), then it is a great place for a pit stop. It really is a stunning part of the country combining rugged moorlands and magnificent limestone dales, with picturesque villages, pretty market towns, and historic houses. I was so pleased that we were able to explore it more.
Chatsworth House
This stunning period building will take your breath away when you walk around from the car park and see it in all its grandeur. It is made from yellow stone and surrounded by beautiful gardens, water features and of course, the pretty surroundings of the Peak District where it is set. You can explore over 30 rooms in the house itself, as well as find your way through a maze outside, a farmyard, a tea room, and the shops.
As the house has been passed down through over 16 royal generations, the interiors are quite something to behold, with beautiful portraits and art work.
Speedwell Cavern
There are plenty of caverns and caves in the Peak District to explore. However, there is only one, Speedwell, where you ride on a boat through the cavern. It takes you on an incredible underground boat journey, one that I was a bit dubious about to start with. You literally have to duck in some places and I thought I would be paranoid about getting stuck. But it is totally fine and a really cool experience, being in cavern on a boat!
The boat glides quietly through the workings of a 200 year old lead mine. Crazy tot think that these people were using such basic tools when they were carving it all out. It took about an hour, but it was a really cool experience. Half way you get out and explore a larger cave area.
Lady Bower Reservoir
There is always such a peace and tranquility that comes from a visit to a reservoir. And the Lady Bower reservoir, located in the heart of the Peak District is no different. Because of its beauty, it has earned the nickname of ‘Lake District of the Peak’ so you know how beautiful and grand it will be. It is surrounded by high moors and conifers, as well as plenty of wildlife. Though there are no water sports on it, you can enjoy a picnic in the area, cycle, walk, or run around it, and just take all of the scenery in.
Bakewell
You can’t go to the Peak District and not visit Bakewell for a Bakewell tart. A small town, though still one that was larger than I would have imagined, has quite and quirky shops to look in, as well as the Bakewell Bakery, serving all sorts of delights, but especially Bakewell tarts. one of my favourite desserts, and even the pudding we had at our wedding breakfast. It would be rude not to, right?
Have you ever been to the Peak District? Would love to hear what you think!
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It looks like you had a really good time! Such amazing family adventures!
I haven’t actually been to the peak district but it’s on my list so I’ll booked mark this. Thank you!x
Definitely try to make a trip over there!
I have literally just come back – How amazing is Speedwell cavern – we loved it! Chatsworth House is on our list for next time since we did not have enought time to pop along x
I have never been here before but there are so many wonderful places to visit especially the cavern its looks amazing. Looks like you guys had a great time as well x
How beautiful is Chatsworth. Never been but I would love to. Must confess I always get confused between the Lake and the Peak Districts. My geography is terrible.
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Oh wow so many great things to do up in the Peak District! I’ve never been despite living in the UK all my life. Still on my list, perhaps will go early this year.
Both the Peak and Lake District are on my list and hoping to be able to visit them in 2018, you’ve definitely inspired me to plan for them as there is so much to see and do
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I’m a Derbyshire girl by birth so always love to see what people have to say about my home county! You covered some great ground. I recommend Gulliver’s Kingdom in Matlock Bath, with obligatory fish and chips in the town afterwards.