Visit England’s Peak District National Park for a relaxing vacation or energizing thrills in lovely outdoor scenery far from the bustle of England’s big cities. The park’s outdoor activities vary widely. Choose from hiking, cycling, abseiling, rock climbing, paragliding, alpaca trekking, spelunking, horseback riding, camping or simply walking along gently sloping trails.
Peak District National Park is England’s first national park, established in 1951 and containing natural and human-made wonders stretching back for centuries. Enjoy the hills and underground caves of this 555-square-mile (1,438-square-kilometer) park. Hike on an amazing 1,600 miles (2,574 kilometers) of footpaths, bridleways and tracks.
Near Bakewell, walk, cycle or ride a horse along the Monsal Trail, a popular route with tunnels and aqueducts, passing cows grazing in green pastures. The Ridge Walk Mam Tour to Lose Hill is a bit more challenging, with a climb to 1,600 feet (487 meters) for expansive views. Get easier access to outstanding views by riding a cable car to the Heights of Abraham in Matlock. Here you can dine in a hilltop restaurant or explore an underground cavern.
As you follow the trails during summer, look for well dressing, the traditional decoration of springs with wooden frames filled with flowers, seeds and berries.
While in the Peak District, visit Chatsworth House, built in the 1500s in Bakewell. The Cavendish family estate has more than 120 rooms, a farmyard and beautiful gardens. Nearby Haddon Hall is a stately 900-year-old home brimming with history. These settings may look familiar if you’ve watched film versions of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice.
From London, drive northwest for 3 hours or travel by train for 3 to 4 hours to reach Peak District National Park. Regular bus services connect many of the towns of Derbyshire and the park’s other counties. Find great accommodations options and even more to see and do. Buxton has lovely spas. Matlock has antiquing, castles and coffee shops. Bakewell offers weekly markets and the famous Bakewell pudding.
