50 Things to Do in the Peak District

You’ll never be stuck for ideas with this hand picked list of 50 wonderful things to do across the Peak District.
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You’ll never be stuck for ideas with this hand picked list of 50 wonderful things to do across the Peak District. Whether you’re in the mood for peaceful walks, fascinating history, charming villages or cosy tearooms, there’s something here for every kind of day and every kind of mood.

This is your invitation to slow down, explore and truly soak up the beauty of this very special place. Let the adventure begin…

  1. Explore Chatsworth House
    Visit the magnificent stately home, renowned for its art collection, expansive gardens, and rich history.
  2. Hike to the summit of Kinder Scout
    Conquer the highest point in the Peak District for panoramic views and challenging trails.
  3. Wander through the village of Castleton
    Discover charming streets, traditional pubs, and access to stunning caverns.
  4. Cross the stepping stones at Dovedale
    Enjoy a picturesque walk featuring iconic limestone stepping stones across the River Dove.
  5. Visit the Heights of Abraham
    Take a cable car ride to explore caverns and enjoy hilltop park views in Matlock Bath.
  6. Cycle the Monsal Trail
    Ride along a scenic, traffic-free route through tunnels and past viaducts on a former railway line.
  7. Tour Haddon Hall
    Explore this well-preserved medieval manor house with beautiful gardens near Bakewell.
  8. Sample a Bakewell Pudding in Bakewell
    Taste the original dessert at its birthplace in this charming market town.
  9. Explore Blue John Cavern
    Discover unique Blue John stone formations in this famous Castleton cave.
  10. Walk along Stanage Edge
    Experience dramatic gritstone escarpments popular with walkers and climbers.
  11. Visit Buxton Opera House
    Attend a performance in this beautiful Edwardian theatre in the spa town of Buxton.
     
  12. Explore the village of Eyam Learn about the village’s self-imposed quarantine during the 1665 plague at the Eyam Museum.
  13. Climb Mam Tor
    Hike up the ‘Shivering Mountain’ for stunning views over the Hope Valley.
  14. Explore Poole’s Cavern
    Take a guided tour through impressive limestone caverns in Buxton.
  15. Visit the National Tramway Museum at Crich
    Ride vintage trams and explore a recreated period village.
  16. Attend a well dressing festival
    Experience this unique Derbyshire tradition of decorating wells with flower petals.
  17. Walk the Tissington Trail
    Enjoy a leisurely walk or cycle along this former railway line through picturesque countryside.
  18. Explore the ruins of Peveril Castle
    Climb to this Norman castle above Castleton for historical insights and great views.
  19. Visit the Derwent Dam
    See the impressive dam used for the ‘Dambusters’ training during WWII.
  20. Shop at the Bakewell Market
    Browse local produce and crafts at this traditional market held every Monday.
  21. Experience the Matlock Bath Illuminations
    Enjoy decorated boats and fireworks during this autumn festival.
  22. Walk through Padley Gorge
    Explore ancient woodlands and babbling brooks in this enchanting area.
  23. Visit the Peak District Mining Museum
    Learn about the area’s lead mining history in Matlock Bath.
  24. Try rock climbing at The Roaches
    Challenge yourself on these popular gritstone climbing routes.
  25. Explore the village of Tideswell
    Visit the ‘Cathedral of the Peak’ and enjoy local shops and cafes.
  26. Attend the Buxton Festival
    Experience opera, music, and literature events in this annual summer festival.
  27. Walk the Limestone Way
    Trek this long-distance footpath through the White Peak’s limestone scenery.
  28. Visit the Old House Museum in Bakewell
    Discover local history in one of the town’s oldest buildings.
  29. Explore the Manifold Valley
    Enjoy walking or cycling through this scenic valley with caves and wildlife.
  30. Tour the Thornbridge Brewery
    Sample local ales and learn about the brewing process in Bakewell.
  31. Visit the Chesterfield Market
    Shop at one of the largest open-air markets in England.
  32. Explore the Cromford Mills
    Visit the birthplace of the modern factory system and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  33. Walk around Ladybower Reservoir
    Enjoy scenic walks and learn about the area’s WWII history.
  34. Visit the Buxton Museum and Art Gallery
    Explore exhibits on local history, geology, and archaeology.
  35. Attend the Ashbourne Royal Shrovetide Football
    Witness this historic and unique football game played through the town’s streets.
  36. Explore the Goyt Valley
    Discover reservoirs, woodlands, and moorlands in this tranquil area.
  37. Visit the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway
    Ride heritage trains through picturesque countryside from Wirksworth.
  38. Walk up to Thor’s Cave
    Hike to this impressive limestone cave with panoramic views over the Manifold Valley.
  39. Explore the village of Hartington
    Enjoy traditional shops, tea rooms, and the famous Hartington cheese shop.
  40. Visit the Pavilion Gardens in Buxton
    Stroll through beautiful landscaped gardens and enjoy the conservatory.
  41. Attend the Y Not Festival
    Experience live music and entertainment at this amazing music event.
  1. Explore the village of Edale
    The starting point of the Pennine Way, Edale offers charming pubs and scenic walks.
  2. Visit the National Stone Centre in Wirksworth
    Learn about the geology and quarrying heritage of the area.
  3. Attend the Hope Show
    Experience a traditional agricultural show with livestock displays and local crafts.
  4. Walk the Derwent Valley Heritage Way
    Follow the River Derwent through picturesque landscapes and historic mills.
  5. Explore the village of Ashford-in-the-Water
    Known for its medieval Sheepwash Bridge and charming limestone cottages.
  6. Visit the Peak Wildlife Park
    Get up close with exotic and endangered animals in a walk-through experience.
  7. Discover the Nine Ladies Stone Circle on Stanton Moor
    A Bronze Age stone circle shrouded in legend and mystery.
  8. Take a guided tour of Renishaw Hall and Gardens
    Explore the historic home and its beautiful Italianate gardens.
  9. Attend the Bakewell Carnival Week
    Enjoy a week of festivities, including parades, music and family activities.

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Eyam Museum

20 minute walk into the village, opposite the playing fields
https://www.eyam-museum.org.uk/visit-us

Eyam Museum aims to open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 with last admission at 15:15. The museum closes at 16:00. It is advisable to pre book tickets on the website. The museum will give you a real insight into the history of Eyam and the details of the plague through detailed local accounts of how it spread, who died and who survived.