A local's guide to the Peak District

"One of our favourite spots is Win Hill, approached via Parkin Clough from Ladybower Reservoir. It’s a rewarding climb with spectacular views across Ladybower, Derwent and the surrounding hills. From the summit, we’d continue via Hope Cross, descend through the woodland and finish with a peaceful walk along the shores of Ladybower Reservoir. It combines open moorland, woodland, reservoir scenery and some of the best panoramic views in the Peak District.

"Although Mam Tor and Kinder Scout are deservedly popular, Win Hill is often much quieter, allowing you to enjoy the landscape without the crowds while still experiencing some of the finest scenery the National Park has to offer."

"Lumsdale Falls is one of the Peak District’s hidden gems and offers a peaceful escape from the busier tourist spots. The valley is home to the atmospheric ruins of several 17th-century mills, alongside beautiful cascading waterfalls that are stunning throughout the year. It’s also a fantastic place for wildlife, where you might hear a woodpecker, spot frogs in the ponds or even see herons and foxes. The quiet woodland setting is perfect for a leisurely walk and photography, and there’s free parking nearby. It’s a lovely place to combine history, nature and tranquillity.

"Youlgreave is a small village between Matlock and Bakewell and another of our favourite spots. Down by the River Bradford, there are beautiful places for a picnic, dog walking, paddling and wild swimming. The 3km walk from Alport to Youlgreave takes around an hour and loops along both sides of the river, with a little cave to explore along the way and plenty of opportunities to paddle in the water."

"I love the view from the Monsal Head Viaduct on the Monsal Trail. It’s such a peaceful spot, surrounded by beautiful Peak District countryside, with fantastic views along the valley and across the surrounding hills. Standing on the viaduct, you can look down over the River Wye and really appreciate the scale of the landscape around you. I also love the history of the old railway line – it’s easy to imagine trains once making their way through the valley and across the viaduct. It’s a lovely place to stop during a walk or bike ride and simply take in the scenery."

"Lud’s Church is one of my absolute favourites. The walk down to this incredible natural chasm feels like stepping into another world, with moss-covered crags, winding nooks and hidden corners to explore. There’s also a wonderful sense of mystery surrounding the place, with links to the legend of Robin Hood. It’s such a unique landscape – wild, atmospheric and full of little surprises.

"Curbar and Baslow Edge are particularly magical when the heather is in full bloom, carpeting the hills in stunning purple. I love walking along the dramatic edges, exploring the caves and crags and taking in the incredible views across the landscape. You might even be lucky enough to spot Highland cows grazing nearby, which somehow makes it feel even more quintessentially Peak District. And, of course, there’s nothing better than finishing the walk with an ice cream! Lots of couples choose the edges for their engagement and wedding photographs, and it’s easy to see why – the scenery is stunning.

"Thor’s Cave is another favourite because the walk there is just as beautiful as the destination itself. The route takes you alongside the river and through woodland before you arrive at the enormous cave, with spectacular views stretching across the valley. I love extending the walk by continuing uphill to Alstonefield, where you can reward yourself with a well-earned drink at The George. It’s the perfect combination of beautiful scenery, adventure and a little countryside indulgence at the end."

"Hathersage is probably our favourite village in the Peak District. It has a fantastic mix of independent cafés, outdoor shops and a really welcoming community feel. If you’re into walking, climbing or the outdoors, you could spend a morning browsing shops like Alpkit and Outside, before stopping for coffee at Open House or Coleman’s Deli.

"One of its real gems is the open-air swimming pool, which is perfect for a summer dip. If you’re looking to unwind, there are also some lovely yoga classes in the village. To round off the day, we’d highly recommend a meal or a drink at The George. Hathersage strikes the perfect balance between being a thriving outdoor hub and a beautiful Derbyshire village, making it somewhere we always enjoy returning to."

"Bakewell is one of our favourite places to visit in the Peak District. We love the peaceful walks along the river, which are perfect for a leisurely stroll and great for dogs who fancy a paddle. On warm summer afternoons, we’ll often take a picnic and sit by the water watching the local cricket. There’s also a fantastic selection of independent cafés, bakeries and shops to explore – The Cornish Bakery is my personal favourite for an iced coffee and vegetable pasty. If you can, visit on a Monday when Bakewell’s popular traditional market is in full swing.

"Beeley is a picturesque Derbyshire village filled with beautiful stone cottages and has a wonderfully peaceful atmosphere. We love stopping at The Old Smithy for excellent coffee, freshly baked cakes and pastries before heading out for a walk. You can follow a scenic route through the estate parkland to Chatsworth House or head up onto Beeley Moor for breathtaking views across the Derwent Valley. It’s also a brilliant starting point for quieter walks away from the busiest tourist spots, with plenty of wildlife to look out for, including deer, birds of prey and pheasants. Finish with lunch or dinner at one of the village’s welcoming country pubs – it’s particularly beautiful here in spring and autumn."

"Matlock is one of our favourite towns because it feels a little less touristy than some of the better-known places in the Peak District. There’s a great choice of independent shops, cafés and restaurants, as well as the lovely park, and everything is within easy walking distance. It’s the sort of place where you can park up and happily spend a few hours wandering around without needing to get back in the car.

"Matlock Bath is completely different to the typical quaint Derbyshire village, which is exactly why we love it. With the River Derwent running through the valley and huge, imposing cliffs rising on either side, it has a really distinctive atmosphere. There’s always something going on and it’s simply a fun place to visit.

"Ashbourne is another favourite, particularly for its old-town character, historic streets and traditional feel. It’s a lovely place to wander around and spend an afternoon.

"For somewhere smaller, Great Longstone is a beautiful little Peak District village. It has that classic Derbyshire charm, and there’s nothing better than finding a spot outside one of the village pubs, ordering a drink and simply enjoying the surroundings."

"Ashbourne, the gateway to the Peak District, would have to be at the top of my list. It’s a beautiful market town packed with independent shops, cafés, restaurants, traditional pubs and even an independent cinema. There’s a real sense of community, with markets every Thursday and Saturday and events including Shrovetide, Ashbourne Festival and Christmas late-night shopping. You can browse the shops, stop for coffee, hire a bike, catch a film and finish with dinner and drinks, all without leaving town.

"Matlock Bath is completely different and perfect for a lively day out. Traditional fish and chip shops and arcades give it plenty of character, while highlights include the Heights of Abraham, with its cable car and spectacular Derwent Valley views, and Gulliver’s Kingdom for families. The autumn illuminations are another favourite. It’s also easy to combine with nearby Matlock for more independent shops, restaurants and bars.

"Tissington is one of the Peak District’s most picturesque villages. It’s famous for its traditional Well Dressing Week, when beautifully decorated wells appear throughout the village, but there’s plenty to enjoy year-round. Visit Tissington Hall, browse independent shops including Tissington Craft Store and Miss Molly’s Vintage & Attic Treasures, or stop at Herbert’s Tea Rooms. Events range from the Vintage Rally and summer fete to Christmas markets and the Secret Gardens.

"Bradbourne is probably my favourite village of them all. Its quiet, isolated setting makes it feel wonderfully removed from the busier parts of the Peak District. The Grade I-listed church, mentioned in the Domesday Book, has a Norman tower and rare Saxon Celtic Cross, and I often stop here for a picnic while taking in the history and countryside views. There are lovely walks towards Carsington, Parwich and Brassington, while the church hosts live music throughout the year. The Harvest Fayre and summer fete also bring the community together with stalls, games, crafts and plenty of cake."

"We have two favourites. We love walking at Monsal Dale, following the river beneath the spectacular viaduct before finding a quiet spot to stop for a picnic. It’s one of those classic Peak District walks that never disappoints.

"Another favourite is around Longshaw Estate and Padley Gorge. The ancient woodland, rocky streams and beautiful water features make it feel wonderfully unspoilt, and if you’re lucky you might even spot deer along the way. It’s a peaceful walk that showcases some of the Peak District’s most enchanting woodland scenery."

"The Derwent Valley Heritage Way can be accessed directly from our property, Oker Farm, with lots of different walks suitable for all ages. You can take a short stroll to one of the village pubs, such as the Square & Compass, or head further afield towards Chatsworth or Ladybower Reservoir.

"The walks take you through beautiful countryside and fields filled with animals, so there’s always something to see along the way. You’ll often even come across a herd of deer."

"I love the walks around Chatsworth because they’re well signed and there’s so much choice. You can easily find a route to suit you, whether you want something short and gentle or a longer, more challenging walk. The views are fantastic and there’s a huge variety of landscapes to enjoy, from open parkland and woodland to riverside scenery and surrounding hills.

"For something a little different, I’d also recommend the Derbyshire Trekking Centre at Upper Langwith. It’s great for both beginners and experienced horse riders, with safe, enjoyable rides through some beautiful countryside – a brilliant alternative way to explore the Peak District."

"One of my favourite walks is Calver to Grindleford and back, a route I’ve loved since childhood and never grown tired of. It’s relatively quiet compared with some of the Peak District’s better-known walks, taking you through open fields, alongside the river and through woodland towards Froggatt and Grindleford. The changing scenery makes it feel like several walks in one, and it’s particularly beautiful in autumn, when the colourful woodland makes you feel like you’re walking through a painting.

"Another favourite is Tissington to Parwich and Bradbourne. I love starting in Tissington with a coffee before walking through the fields towards Parwich, where I’d stop for lunch at the Sycamore Inn. From there, continue through the countryside to Bradbourne and its beautiful Anglo-Saxon church. To make it circular, return towards Tissington via Bradbourne Mill, crossing the ford before climbing back into the village. It’s a wonderfully peaceful route combining beautiful countryside, historic villages and a good pub lunch.

"Thor’s Cave and Alstonefield is another favourite. It’s generally busier, but the scenery makes it well worth exploring. I like to start from the bottom and follow the river and woodland paths uphill towards Thor’s Cave. Emerging from the trees to see the enormous cave opening and views across the valley is always spectacular. From here, continue uphill to Alstonefield, where you can finish the walk with a well-earned drink."

"We’re honestly spoiled for choice with fantastic pubs, restaurants and cafés around us. Just a short walk away are The Blind Bull and The Bull’s Head in Foolow, both of which are wonderfully dog-friendly and perfect after a day exploring the Peaks. The Bull’s Head has all the charm of a traditional village pub, while The Blind Bull offers exceptional food in a relaxed, welcoming setting.

"The Barrel Inn at Bretton is another favourite, with incredible views over the surrounding countryside. We also love The Ashford Arms, Charleston in Bakewell, The George in Hathersage and The Maynard at Grindleford. There’s such a fantastic choice nearby that it’s genuinely impossible to pick just one favourite."

"D’Alessandro’s Pizza on Smedley Street in Matlock is a tiny, two-table restaurant that also offers takeaway. It’s tucked away and not many people know about it, making it feel like a real hidden gem. You can watch the pizzas being made while you wait, and the owners even grow some of their own fresh ingredients, including tomatoes and herbs. Make sure you try the miso walnut chocolate chip cookies too – they’re mouthwatering and always sell out.

"The Balti in Matlock Bath serves amazing Indian food in a lovely, warm atmosphere. The service is always friendly, it’s great for families and the large menu has something for everyone. The prices are very reasonable too, making it a brilliant choice for a relaxed meal out.

"Stones in Matlock is perfect for something a little more special. The riverside terrace has beautiful views over the water, while the seasonal menu makes the most of fresh produce throughout the year. There’s also an intimate conservatory with just five tables that can be hired for special occasions, creating a really memorable experience. The service is fantastic too – friendly, welcoming and always five-star."

"The Gate at Tansley is a lovely choice for a relaxed meal, with a welcoming atmosphere and a great setting close to Matlock. The Devonshire Arms at Baslow is another favourite, particularly after a day exploring nearby Chatsworth and the surrounding countryside. It’s a great place to settle in for good food and a drink after a long walk.

"For something sweeter, we always enjoy stopping for an ice cream at Hassop Station. It’s perfectly placed on the Monsal Trail, so it makes a brilliant stop during a walk or bike ride – especially on a warm summer day."

"Wildhive at Callow Hall offers something a little more luxurious. Set among 35 acres of gardens, meadows and woodland just outside Ashbourne, it’s a beautiful five-star countryside experience. The food focuses on seasonal, locally sourced British produce, while the Garden Room has wonderful views across the surrounding landscape. I love that it feels luxurious while still retaining a strong connection to the countryside.

"My favourite pub has to be the Sycamore Inn. It has everything I look for in a proper country pub: a welcoming atmosphere, log burner, friendly service and a lovely village setting. It’s dog friendly too, and the generous portions of hearty pub classics are exactly what you want after a long walk. It has a cosy, homely feel that makes you want to stay all afternoon.

"The Okeover Arms is another favourite. It’s a beautiful, dog-friendly pub with fantastic, fresh food, including Indian dishes among its specialities. It manages to offer something a little different while retaining the welcoming feel of a traditional country pub. Its location is another big plus, with Ashbourne, Tissington and Ilam all within reach on foot.

"For something completely different, try Couplings in Ashbourne. This independent wine and cheese bar is a fun way to spend an evening, with fantastic service, generous cheese platters and a great selection of wines. It’s exactly the kind of place that makes Ashbourne such a great base for exploring the Peak District."

"For us, the perfect long weekend starts by settling into The Merlin or one of our cosy shepherd's huts at Derbyshire Hills. Guests often tell us their favourite part is simply switching off – waking to birdsong, enjoying uninterrupted countryside views and having fantastic walks, welcoming pubs and some of the Peak District's best scenery right on the doorstep.

"Our first full day would start in Edale, climbing Kinder Scout via one of the cloughs. It's one of the Peak District's most iconic walks, with dramatic gritstone edges, waterfalls and sweeping moorland. Afterwards, we'd head to The Bull's Head in Foolow – a proper Derbyshire village pub and the perfect place to refuel after a day in the hills.

"The following day we'd explore Chatsworth House and Gardens, followed by a swim at Hathersage's open-air lido, coffee in the village and a browse around the independent outdoor shops. If you're feeling adventurous, a gliding experience over the Peak District offers an unforgettable perspective of the landscape.

"On our final day we'd head to Longshaw Estate and Padley Gorge, where ancient woodland, tumbling streams and moss-covered rocks create a wonderfully peaceful setting. We'd finish the weekend with dinner at either The Barrel Inn in Bretton, with its spectacular views, or The Blind Bull in Little Hucklow, one of our favourite places for a relaxed meal."

"If we had a weekend in the Peak District, we’d definitely spend some of it on the River Derwent, either wild swimming or rafting down towards Matlock and Matlock Bath. We’d also make time for Chatsworth House, where you can easily spend hours exploring the gardens and grounds. If you’re visiting with children, the adventure playground is always a highlight too.

"Another morning would start with breakfast at Hassop Station before hiring bikes and cycling along the Monsal Trail towards Monsal Head. It’s a brilliant way to explore the countryside, following the old railway line through some of the Peak District’s most beautiful scenery.

"On a sunny day, we’d have to stop at Tagg Lane Dairy near Buxton for what we think is THE BEST ice cream you’ll ever try! It’s made using Jersey milk from their own cows on the farm, and you can even pick up some ice cream and fresh milk to take home with you.

"Finally, we’d round off the weekend with a stone-baked pizza from D’Alessandro’s in Matlock – the perfect way to finish a few days of walking, cycling, swimming and exploring."

"There’s just so much choice and variety in the Peak District that it’s hard to pick one perfect weekend. I think it really depends on what you’re in the mood for, whether that’s walking, cycling, exploring the towns and villages or simply staying somewhere a little different.

"I’m actually going away with my husband next weekend and we’re treating ourselves to a stay in a treehouse at Callow Hall, which is something I’ve always wanted to do. We love finding unusual places to stay and making the accommodation part of the experience.

"While we’re there, we’ll take our bikes out along the Tissington Trail, enjoying the countryside and stopping whenever we fancy. We’ll also make plenty of time to eat out, have a wander around the town and generally take things at a relaxed pace. For me, that mix of being outdoors, good food and staying somewhere special makes for a perfect Peak District weekend."

"For me, the perfect Peak District long weekend would start with a beautiful countryside cottage with a log burner and walks straight from the door. I’d want somewhere peaceful enough to feel completely away from everyday life, but still close to the villages, attractions and experiences that make the area so special.

"I’d spend the first day simply getting outside, heading off on a nature walk or hiring bikes to explore some of the quieter countryside. There’s something wonderful about not planning every minute in the Peak District – you can simply head out and see where the day takes you.

"The next day, I’d visit somewhere historic, such as Haddon Hall, before making time for a local event if one happened to be taking place. Ashbourne is particularly good for this, with its arts festival, street festivals and seasonal celebrations bringing a real buzz to the town throughout the year.

"I’d also want to try something creative or hands-on, perhaps a pottery class, archery, foraging or an art workshop. Experiences like these are a lovely way to discover another side of the Peak District and create memories beyond visiting the usual attractions.

"And, of course, there would have to be plenty of good food. A hearty pub lunch after a long walk would definitely be on the cards, followed by dinner at a lovely local restaurant. For a really special weekend, I’d arrange a private chef at the cottage. Coming back after a day in the Peaks, lighting the log burner and sitting down to a beautiful meal without having to go anywhere would be the perfect end to the day.

"Ultimately, my ideal weekend wouldn’t be about trying to see everything. It would be about slowing down, getting outside, breathing in the fresh air, discovering somewhere new, eating well and enjoying that wonderful feeling of being surrounded by the Peak District countryside."

"One of our favourite off-the-beaten-track spots is Bretton Clough. The valley has these remarkable old earthworks and rolling mounds that create an almost otherworldly feel, like stepping into a scene from The Lord of the Rings.

"The surrounding area has a rich history of Roman lead mining, which adds another layer of intrigue to exploring this hidden corner of the Peak District. If you continue the walk, you can finish at The Barrel Inn in Bretton, where you’re rewarded with huge panoramic views across the surrounding hills. On a clear day, it’s said you can see five counties from up there, making it an amazing place to end the walk while soaking up one of the finest views in the Peak District."

"Only a 10-minute walk from Oker Farm, you’ll find a hidden little beach and one of our favourite swimming spots, known mostly to locals. There’s shallow access into the River Derwent and a small sandy area that’s perfect for spreading out a picnic after a swim. You can sit and watch canoes and rafts drifting past, with cows grazing in the fields on the opposite bank and plenty of wildlife to spot, including herons, trout and even crayfish. The Square & Compass is only around five minutes from the beach too, so you can finish with a well-earned cold drink at the pub.

"Oker Farm is also home to a famous oak tree that was written about by William Wordsworth in the 18th century. You can reach the tree by walking through the fields beside the farmhouse, and when you get to the top of the hill you’re rewarded with beautiful views stretching for miles. From here, you can look out towards Matlock and Riber Castle, with the River Derwent winding its way through the landscape below."

"I know it’s just outside the heart of the Peak District, but I’d certainly recommend spending some time around Bolsover. Bolsover Castle is well worth visiting for its history and impressive setting, while nearby Hardwick Hall is a magnificent stately home with beautiful grounds to explore.

"For something completely different, head to Creswell Crags for a walk through its fascinating prehistoric landscape, with limestone cliffs and caves that have evidence of human activity dating back thousands of years. I’d also make a quick stop at the Welbeck Farm Shop, which has a fantastic selection of delicious local produce at good prices.

"There are also some great walking trails and cycling tracks opening up around the area, giving you even more ways to get outdoors and explore this lesser-known part of Derbyshire."

"One of the things we love most about the Peak District is that some of the best experiences aren’t necessarily the famous ones. We actually share many of our favourite local discoveries with guests through our guest information packs because we want people to experience the area beyond the usual tourist hotspots.

"There are some wonderful smaller-scale experiences around Ashbourne and the surrounding villages, from art and creative classes in Tissington to local events, harvest festivals and community celebrations in places such as Parwich, Bakewell, Bradbourne and Buxton. Elite Cinema, Handmade Design, which sells only locally made gifts, and Couplings in Ashbourne are also great examples of the independent experiences we love recommending – places where you get a real sense of the local community rather than simply ticking off another tourist attraction.

"For us, that’s really the secret to enjoying the Peak District: take the time to explore the smaller villages, see what’s happening locally and don’t be afraid to follow a footpath or wander down a village road. Some of our favourite days have come from doing exactly that."