The Peak District is one of the most beautiful parts of the United Kingdom. It is vast and covers more than 1,437 km², including parts of northern Derbyshire, Greater Manchester, Staffordshire, Cheshire and Yorkshire. The beauty of the region was recognised in 1951 when it became the first national park in the United Kingdom.
Today, the Peak District attracts millions of visitors each year and it is the second most visited National Park in the world (behind Mount Fuji in Japan). Here are some of the most popular activities in the Peak District!
Peak Hall – Located in the middle of the Peak District
Activities for Nature Lovers
The terrain in the Peak District is very diverse, making it the perfect location for a wide range of outdoor activities. The most popular outdoor activities in the region include hiking, bike riding, rock climbing, bird watching, boating, and swimming. Some of the best locations and activities include:
Hiking through Dovedale
One of the most pristine parts of the Peak District, Dovedale is the perfect spot for hiking, biking, rock climbing and many other outdoor activities. The views are absolutely spectacular making it a favourite location of artists and sightseers. The famous stepping stones of Derbyshire are very popular with visitors.
Stanage Edge
The impressive geological formations of Stanage Edge are a must-see when visiting the Peak District. The rocky outcrops and weathered boulders are an impressive sight. Climbing to the higher points give visitors access to stunning panoramic views. The area is also very popular with rock climbers with climbs for people of all skill levels.
Ridge Walk Mam Tor to Losehill
A popular trail with spectacular views, this ridge walk is located in the Derbyshire area. Perfect for people all ages and fitness levels. The area is also popular with paragliders.
Stunning High Peak Hall is in the ideal location!
Monsal Trail
A relatively flat trail that is popular with people of all ages and is shared by hikers, bike riders and people on horseback. This 13.7 km trail first opened in 1981 and is now one of the most visited trails in the Peak District. The railway tunnels that form a part of the Mensal trails are popular with children.
Heights of Abraham
Derbyshire’s oldest visitor attraction, the Heights of Abraham is a hilltop park reached by a thrilling cable car journey across the Derwent Valley. The park offers cave tours, picnic spots, two unique show caverns, shops and a restaurant. A memorable day out!
Pavilion Gardens
A more relaxing day out, the Pavilion Gardens gives visitors the chance to enjoy 23-acres of award-winning landscaped gardens. The gardens also have a large cafe and coffee bar — the perfect spot to unwind.
Ladybower Reservoir
Located in the heart of Peak National Park, the Ladybower Reservoir is a beautiful natural body of water surrounded by some spectacular scenery. It is a fantastic location for boating, canoeing and swimming. There are also a number of relaxing walks around the reservoir.
Lumsdale Valley
Lumsdale Valley is a serene part of the Peak District, with lush greenery, waterfalls, streams and ponds. This pristine valley is a fantastic nature walk for the entire family.
Kinder Scout
If you are looking for a more strenuous walk and some rock scrambling, Kinder Scout is the perfect location for a day out. Recommended for people with a decent level of fitness! Fantastic 360-degree panoramic views await people who make it to the highest points.
Activities for Thrill Seekers
If you prefer to get the adrenaline pumping when enjoying an outdoor activity, here are a few of the most popular adventurous outings:
Dolomite Training
This company offers a range of outdoor activity courses including rock climbing, caving, mountain biking, abseiling, navigation training courses, guided walks and stream scrambling
Derbyshire and Lancashire Gliding Club
The impressive Birdsgrove House is ideal for larger groups!
Have you ever wanted to fly? The Derbyshire and Lancashire Gliding Club offers a range of glider courses for beginners. It is a fantastic way to enjoy the scenery in the Peak District.
Pure Outdoor Ltd. – Day Tours
This company provides hillwalking, climbing, caving, mountain biking, first aid, international trekking and mountaineering courses in the Peak District. There are courses available for all skill levels.
Acclimbatize Activities
Acclimbatize provide a range of exciting outdoor activities in the Peak District including rock climbing caving/potholing, ropes courses, gorge scrambling, mountain biking, canoeing, abseiling, mountaineering, orienteering, raft building, bespoke adventure, archery and bushcraft. Plenty of activities to keep even the most adventurous people busy.
Historical Sites in the Peak District
There many incredible historical to visit in the peak district including:
Chatsworth
Located in Derbyshire, this grand country estate is the home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire. The historic house contains one of the Europe’s most impressive art collections, beautiful antique furniture and impeccably presented gardens.
Haddon Hall
Overlooking the River Wye, Haddon Hall is a beautiful manor house that combines Medieval and Tudor architecture.
Peveril Castle
This ancient castle was left to ruin in the 16th-Century and is now a favourite location for tourists to visit. A short walk takes you to the top of the castle where you will be greeted by some fantastic views.
The grand Derwent Manor will make your stay extra special
The Cathedral of the Peak (Tideswell Church)
Built sometimes in the 12th-Century, this historic church has a long and interesting history. It is a peaceful and beautiful spot to visit.
Eyam Plague Village Museum
This small museum is packed with historical artefacts and information about the local area.
Fun Activities for the Whole Family
The Peak District also has a number of destinations which are perfect for a family day out. Some of the best include:
Hathersage Swimming Pool
An outdoor heated swimming pool is set in a lawned enclosure with a covered veranda to one side. A great day out with the kids and located in an area with great views.
Steeple Grange Light Railway
A great day out for young children, this narrow gauge railway has a short circuit with plenty of beautiful Peak District scenery to enjoy.
Handley Manor has views which are out of this World!
The Northern Light Cinema
A quaint cinema in Wirksworth that has comfortable seating and great food. The perfect spot to have a relaxing afternoon off, after exploring the Peak District.
Yeaveley Estate – Day Activities
There are many activities available on the estate including clay pigeon shooting, archery, fly fishing, hover crafting, cross bow shooting, .22 rifle shooting, air rifle shooting, falconry, fly fishing, Sniper School, and pump action shotgun shooting.
So much to see and do in the Peak District, the next step for your visit is to find somewhere to stay on your visit. Head over to our Holidays page for more information.
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