The Peak District travel guide gives you more information on the first national park in the UK. Situated in the Midlands the Peak District is a land of contrasts, there are breathtaking landscapes, market towns and villages with character. It is a place of cultural and historical significance and heritage for the UK, with all of these combined there is plenty to see, experience, enjoy and explore.
Overview and Attractions
The area is a good place to visit during the winter if you like to see a picture perfect appearance, the variety of landscapes in the area are possibly at their best during this time. If you like the exploring and walking and then sitting in front of a log fire with a hearty meal then this is the place for you. There is plenty to see and do in the summer also and with the range of attractions and activities the area caters for most tastes.
The High Peak is where the town of Buxton is located famous as a spa town, Kinder Scout is famous for its moorlands, and there are also canals and historic dams. With its canals the area is a favourite among boating enthusiasts who can indulge their passion in wonderful surroundings.
The Derbyshire Dales attracts a number of climbing enthusiasts. Be sure to see the limestone valleys in the area which boasts rare flowers. For those that like history a visit to market towns such as Ashbourne is well worth a visit with its country charm and bustling markets. The Staffordshire Moorlands have some breathtaking views you can enjoy. Peace and quiet can be found in Dovedale, perfect for relaxing and watching the world go by. In this part of the world you can fish, take a steam train or take in the scenic countryside.
Whether you are after a day out trip or a weekend or week away the Peak District boasts breathtaking scenery, is rich with history offering you the chance to do as much or as little as you wish. The diverse landscapes of the area make it a favourite for those that like the great outdoors. Walkers and climbers come to region, along with fans of extreme sports and nature lovers. A great place for all the whole family there are guided walks for those that wish to see England's green and pleasant land.
In the summer the Buxton Opera House hosts the Buxton International Festival and the International Gilbert & Sullivan Festival. It also has a live music festival and programmes of opera, dance, comedy and children's shows to help keep the children occupied and amused.
The art of Well Dressing involves decorating springs and wells with pictures using only what nature can provide. This involves a wooden board being soaked in a river for a few days, it is then filled with wet clay. Each village then transfers the outline of the pictures to the clay. Wool and bark are among those used to do this. The picture is subsequently coloured in, again each village use the method they know best. This intricate artwork can take around a week to complete. The Well Dressing season is from May to September, you can find fresh and original designs in different villages throughout the summer season. This colourful and skilled tradition is one not to be missed when visiting the region.
Peak District show caves and mines are world famous and a great attraction. Indeed they provide respite from the heat in the summer or when it is raining. Among the fascinating rock formations found at the Treak Cliff Hill is the mineral Blue John Stone, it is the only place in the world where it naturally occurs. There are guided tours available for visitors to learn more about the rock formations and the history of the tunnels and see the underground limestone cave formations.
Visitors can see Chatsworth House located in the region. The historic house offers a number of attractions including the impressive house with its famous collections including art works. The gardens are over 100 acres in size and offer the opportunity to enjoy a stroll in scenic surroundings, there are displays of tress, shrubs, ponds and a number of sculptures for visitors to look out for. The farmyard and adventure playground provides entertainment for children along with education with a number of shows, displays and talks during the day. The park was designed by the acclaimed ‘Capability’ Brown and is approx 1,000 acres in size having been acclaimed as among the most beautiful parks in the UK.
The Derwent Valley Mills are located in Derbyshire and is a world heritage site. The site is made up of a number of mills from the 18th and 19th centuries along with the living facilities for the workers and the surrounding area. Visitors can see a number of mills along the route with plenty of history and heritage on display, there are museums, exhibitions and displays providing a fascinating insight in to the past.
There are a number of walking and activity holiday providers in the Peak District with activities including guided walks, map-reading and navigation courses to cycling, climbing and much more. See Simply Walk for more details and ideas.
Fans of Golf can combine their passion for the sport with a break to the area. There some great courses in the vicinity, for those seeking a bit more luxury a stay at a luxury country hotel combined with playing on a top course is available and probably an idea of heaven for golfing aficionados. See Buxton & High Peak Golf Club for further details.
The region offers visitors a range of holidays and breaks that can be enjoyed here. Its central location means it is accessible by road, rail and coach. The towns and villages retain much of their tradition and character that make them fascinating for the visitor. The range of activities and attractions mean you do not have to go abroad for a relaxing or action packed break.
Disclaimer: The information given in on this website is given in good faith and to the best of our knowledge. If there are any discrepancies in no way do we intend to mislead. Important travel details and arrangements should be confirmed and verified with the relevant authorities.
