The Peak District is an English gem worth getting to know. Not to be confused with the more northern Lake District, this expansive national park is an area of outstanding beauty with breathtaking views, bustling market towns, quaint villages, historic houses, and hundreds of annual events.

A Brief History

Dating back to the last Ice Age, the region’s distinctive features, including deep valleys, limestone plateaus, and gritstone edges, were sculpted by glacial and erosional forces. Ancient settlements and artifacts provide evidence of human activity in the area from as far back as the Bronze Age, with various tribes and civilizations leaving their mark on the landscape.

During the medieval period, the Peak District became a center for lead mining, and remnants of this industry, such as old mines and stone cottages, still dot the countryside. The region played a crucial role in the Industrial Revolution, with textile mills and factories emerging in the valleys. The growth of industry had both positive and negative impacts on the landscape, leading to conservation efforts in the 20th century to protect the unique natural and cultural heritage of the Peak District.

In 1951, the Peak District became the United Kingdom’s first designated national park, marking a significant milestone in the preservation of its diverse ecosystems and historic sites. Today, the Peak District National Park attracts millions of visitors who come to explore its picturesque villages, hike its scenic trails, and appreciate the harmonious blend of natural beauty and cultural history that defines this iconic English landscape.

Lyme Park

Lyme Park exemplifies the glory and majesty of Royal England. Originally a hunting lodge and later transformed into a large family home, Lyme has undergone extensive alterations since the 1400s with notable architects employed to transform the house into the magnificent mansion we see today. You may admire the grand facade and interiors of the house, as well as the extensive gardens and 1400 acre deer park.

Blue John Cavern

The world famous Blue John Cavern near Castleton in the Peak District has been said to be the finest in Western Europe, which is home to a rare blue gemstone that can only be found in this particular hillside. You can take a tour of the cave, and visit the small gift shop to view some of the stunning Blue John jewelry. You may also hike nearby Mam Tor for one of the best views in the entire Peak District.

Castleton

Castleton is a popular tourist village in the heart of the Peak District that is renowned for its quintessentially classic English character, its wealth of local history, and for being a major Peak District walking center. You can also visit ancient Peveril Castle overlooking the village and stop in an old pub to grab a pint right at the base of the castle.

Ashford-in-the-Water

It doesn’t get much more English then this village; small stone bridge over a flat river leading into a tiny hamlet set in the most picturesque setting. With its lovely limestone cottages and beautifully-tended gardens, Ashford-in-the-Water is a little slice of rural England at its finest.

In the Peak District you’ll find…

The cuisine you’ll find will be typically British in nature. This mean local pubs and eateries serving pot pies, fish and chips, stews, chicken, and other meat dishes.

Make sure to try…

One specialty to be found is the Bakewell Tart which has a shortcrust pastry case, followed by strawberry jam and topped with almond sponge.

My favorite pub in the Peak District…

Perhaps one of the most charming pubs in the Peak District is The George located in the small village of Castleton at the base of ancient Peveril Castle with a terrace looking out onto the mountainous landscape.

The Peak District is such a vast area there are many choices from tiny villages, local towns, or a charming B&B in the middle of the countryside.

If you’re looking for convenient and quaint you should consider Castleton. It’s a bit farther north, but it’s on a major thoroughfare through the park and the village itself is charming.

If you want something a little bigger, Bakewell is a good option. Bakewell is the biggest town in the Peak District with shops and local stores should you need supplies.