Things to do & places to visit in Peak District National Park, United Kingdom

When it comes to outdoor activities, the Peak District National Park is the whole package. Located in the north of England, the park offers everything from horse riding to rock climbing, windsurfing to paragliding, plus walking trails galore. One trail, Derwent Valley Heritage Way, allows you to take in the area’s open landscape while also showcasing its industrial roots. Discovering hidden underground formations at such spots as Titan Cave (the highest natural cavern in the U.K.) is another popular pastime. Best of all, there are camp- and RV sites throughout so guests can settle into these surroundings.

Peak District National Park #51 destination in United Kingdom 2023. The average rating score is 4.52 based on 26.4k traveler reviews, of 40 attractions. Timezone: Europe/London, current date and time: Monday, May 06, 2024, 11:23.

Peak District National Park Weather Statistics view more »

General weather summary in May

60°F - 42°F

Temperature Highs - Lows

Moderately chilly and breezy

Feels like

25%

Chance of rain

84.0 millimeters

Amount

15.3 mph

Wind speed

79%

Humidity

15.8

Daylight length

5:09 AM

Sunrise

8:57 PM

Sunset

44%

Cloud cover

Jacket

What to wear

Top things to do (38)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Pure Outdoor Ltd. (869 reviews)
- Brilliant climbing company
Monday: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Adrenaline & Extreme Tours • Climbing Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Hiking & Camping Tours • Day Trips

The Two-day Improvers rock climbing course was fantastic. Charlie was a really friendly and super knowledgeable guide and the two days were set up really well for starting to learn to climb outdoors independently - a bit of theory on the first day and guided practise, and then opportunities on the second day to look for our own routes, build our own anchors and get lots of climbing in. Now feeling excited to get out and do some more! Definitely recommend going with Pure Outdoor - have done another of their courses in the past and everyone has been really friendly and well organised! See more..
5.0 Ridge Walk Mam Tor to Losehill (773 reviews)
- Fantastic views from Mam Tor
Hiking Trails

We parked at Mam Nick National Trust car park and walked up to Mam Tor from there (cashless payment via website or app). The pathway was easier underfoot than I expected with large flattish slab and steps in places. We all wore trainers which was sufficient as the ground and grass was very dry, probably a totally different walk if it had rained! With 2 children we only managed part the way along the ridge and then back to Mam Tor but we could still take in the stunning scenery from the top on a clear day. Had a lovely pub lunch at the George in Castleton afterwards. See more..
5.0 Peak Mountaineering (658 reviews)
- Brilliant multipitch course
Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Nature & Wildlife Tours

We had a brilliant couple of days in Snowdonia with Peak Mountaineering, on a "Learn to multipitch" climbing course. We got so much out of the two days and covered more than we thought, they were very accommodating with adapting the course to suit our experience levels and what we wanted to cover. Booking the course and fixing dates went very smoothly and the 1:2 instructor ratio meant it was just my wife, myself and an instructor who lived locally, called Simon. Simon is an excellent instructor, very encouraging, calm, knowledgeable and hardworking. The first day was rather wet and he probably could have sold us on retreating to a cafe to do theory, but he encouraged us to do more routes. The second day was lovely weather and we consolidated everything we learned the day before as well as covering extra things like scrambling techniques and abseiling. Couldn't have asked for better and now feel well equipped for taking on multipitch routes together. See more..
5.0 Stanage Edge (516 reviews)
- Great hiking experience for all the family
Geologic Formations

Great hiking experience for all the family. Or hike started form Fox Glove where there were great amenities nearby and a cafe selling coffee to help kickstart my day since we had a very early start. The walk was pleasant and suitable for all age ranges. The scenery was beautiful and as you would expect from the peaks. See more..
5.0 Kinder Scout (308 reviews)
- As spectacular as 50 years ago.
Hiking Trails • Geologic Formations

Last here in about 1970 on a school cadet force ‘arduous training’ week walking as a group across long tracts of the Peak District. The 360 panorama from the top of Kinder Scout is as overwhelming now as it was then. Powerful, unspoilt, tantalising, especially the depth and distance, dark lush greens often topped by somber greys in the clouds. See more..
5.0 Dolomite Training (305 reviews)
- Absolutely brilliant
Monday: 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM Adrenaline & Extreme Tours • Bike Tours • Climbing Tours • Lessons & Workshops

Hey Steve, this is David, me you and my father went out to do the giants hole round trip and I CANNOT recommend dolomite training more. The whole trip was brilliantly prepared, we felt incredibly safe and comfortable with you, all the equipment was perfect. I felt like you read us perfectly and chose the best route really well, you were really knowledgeable and encouraging. Very professional and prepared. I had an absolutely brilliant time and as someone looking to get into caving this experience was perfect and I'm already excited thinking about a second trip out! my dad had some troubles with the false vice but you kept him calm and perfectly instructed to him how to get out. He was incredibly impressed as well. If you're a first time caver or looking for a good, exciting adventure then dolomite training is absolutely the place for you! See more..
5.0 Abseiling Derbyshire (234 reviews)
- Awesome experience that is worth a go
Monday: 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM Climbing Tours • Hiking & Camping Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours

I completed this with my 12 yr old son, my friend and his 12 yr old daughter. Met on time and then off to the bridge, an option once we got there depending on how adventurous we were feeling and then our lessons on how to do it stage by stage. All of this done with appropriate social distancing and hygiene measures in place. We all had a few nerves (some more than others) and yet we all overcame these step by step, Pete was wonderful in how he guided both the children and the adults through the steps...so much that we were all descending at pace by our final go. A great adventure that was made even better by the location and Pete. Thank you. See more..
5.0 Peak Walking Adventures (234 reviews)
- Kinder Scout challenge walk - Peak District
Walking Tours

Thank you Rachel and Richard for a very well organised, safe socially distanced and informative walk. I booked onto the 17 mile guided challenge walk of Kinder Scout, the Peak District’s highest mountain, with Peak Walking Adventures in April 2021. Travelling solo and not having taken on any challenging walks for a while, this was a great decision, as Rachel and Richard’s experienced leadership and the friendly group helped spur me on up the initial ascent and onwards around the perimeter of Kinder Scout. It was a beautiful walk, breathtaking scenery and stunning weather - a great way to start spring 2021! I have booked onto my next walking experience with Peak Walking Adventures and very much look forward to taking on some new walks. See more..
5.0 Bike Garage (189 reviews)
- Beauty of a day
Monday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Biking Trails • Gear Rentals

The Bike Garage is an independent family-owned bike shop which set out in 2010. Every year, our cycle hire helps people from all over the world of any skill level experience an unforgettable adventure riding in the Peak District. There is something for everyone! In 2018 we were voted the best bike hire centre in the Peak District by travel site Trip Advisor With Hardtails, Full suspension and Electric models available in a wide range of sizes. All bikes are set up to your requirements with a choice of pedals, suspension adjusted for your weight, swap brake levers to your prefered configuration. All hires come with Helmet, Spares, Tools and OS Map. With guidance on a suitable route depending on your level of experience included. We have examples routes on our website with video and photo guides, GPX files and route profiles. We also offer to drop off/collection bikes to your accommodation. See more..
5.0 Vintage Adventure Tours (189 reviews)
- Special day money well spent
Monday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Sightseeing Tours

I booked this adventure for my husbands birthday, and we were not disappointed Steven was a fantastic knowledgeable driver/host, we traveled round out of the way villages and down tracks that we would never have used when using our own car. Had our picnic at a beautiful spot with a lovely view. We did a 5 hour tour with picnic and the time just flew by. Will remember the day for a long time See more..
5.0 Mam Tor (181 reviews)
- Tiring climb but worth it
Spent < 1 hour Lookouts • Scenic Walking Areas

We parked on the roadside free of charge. There were no yellow lines. The sign said that it was pay and display only on bank holidays and weekends. From where we parked we walked past Speedwell and Treak caverns and then followed an obvious oath up the hill. It was quite tiring but luckily didn’t take too long (about 40 mins in total). The view at the top was awesome and it felt like a good achievement. Worth doing it but wear good trainers/boots as there are loose stones/random rocks on the path which could make you lose your footing. See more..
5.0 The Church Inn (168 reviews)
- Amazing local pub for food and drink!
Monday: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM Bars & Clubs

We visited the pub three times during our stay at an Airbnb close by, literally 3 minute walk! Really liked everything about the pub. The food, drink and staff were all great. It’s such a nice cosy local pub, we ate there for three evening meals and every meal was fantastic. So many pubs have put their prices up but the food never reflects it. However here the food is worth every penny! Also try the locally brewed Moravka lager, such a nice taste to it. Will have to go back for it as can’t see that you can buy it anywhere. In summary don’t walk past this pub if in the area for a walk, make sure you go in, you won’t regret it! See more..
5.0 Gritstone Adventure Activities (148 reviews)
- Learned to lead!
Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Bike Tours • Climbing Tours

Hannes and Simon took our group of 4 for a lead climbing course at High Neb. Under their expert eye we practiced setting up belay stations and placing gear safely, and worked our way up through top rope climbs to lead climbs on a top rope, and finally to a genuine lead climb, all on nice easy routes. The second day was rained off so we swapped to an indoor venue where we practiced more lead climbing skills - climbing, belaying, falling and more practice setting up belays. Both instructors were very knowledgeable, great at explaining, flexible about adjusting the content to our needs and abilities, and gave excellent tips along the way to help us improve our safety and climbing techniques. Aside from really enjoying the climbing I came away with a lot of knowledge, many random climbing questions answered, and a huge boost of confidence in my ability to set up ropes, place gear, belay and climb safely. I wouldn't hesitate to highly recommend Gritstone. See more..
5.0 Curbar Edge (119 reviews)
- Amazing views
Lookouts

There are a number of stunning walks which set off from Curbar Edge. The ones closest to the edge offer stunning views of the Hope Valley below. The walks are generally quite easy, with the paths wide and limited rocks to negotiate. It’s also fine for dogs. The car park can get quite full and there is limited parking in the lay-bys on the way up to the main car park. There is normally a refreshment van in the car park but wasn’t when we visited so I recommend taking your own provisions. A good place for the soul. See more..
5.0 Pendragon Project Team Adventures (109 reviews)
- Great experience in spectacular surroundings
Escape Games • Scavenger Hunts • Hiking & Camping Tours • Running Tours

I did The Hunt with my wife and 2 children (aged 19 and 17) for my 54th birthday. We did the Rogue Agent mission. Agents Montgomery and Pritchard greeted us at the start and briefed us on the mission. We then spent 1.5 hours searching for capsules containing information and puzzles, whilst trying to evade the hunters. It was fantastic fun in spectacular surroundings. We enjoyed doing it as a family but can see why it is attractive for larger groups as well. I would highly recommend it. Thanks to the Pendragon Project team for a great experience. See more..
4.5 Chatsworth House (9.214 reviews)
- Burning man - radical horizons
Monday: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM Art Galleries • Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks

Chatsworth, home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, is set in the heart of the Peak District in Derbyshire, on the banks of the river Derwent. Explore the historic house for fascinating stories and one of Europe's most significant art collections. In the garden, discover water features, giant sculptures and beautiful flowers set in Britain's most stunning and surprising country estate. Or come face to face with our farm animals in our working farmyard and enjoy adventurous fun in the playground. Furthermore, with holiday cottages and hotels, shops and restaurants, including Britain's best farm shop, you can really make the most of your time with us. See more..
4.5 Monsal Trail (1.803 reviews)
- Monday cycle ride
Monday: 11:00 PM - 11:59 PM Hiking Trails

Excellent cycling trail using the old railway track bed from Bakewell to Buxton. Trail is flat and pretty smooth. There is a slight but noticeable gradient from Bakewell to Buxton over the distance of about 7.5 miles so worth doing the route that way as you can almost freewheel on the way back. We started at the old Hassop station that has a good bike shop and cafe plus ample parking at about £5 all day, think we paid £3 for 4 hours which was plenty of time to do the trail with a stop for lunch. There is a nice cafe at about 5 miles in at the old station at Millers Dale. Stunning scenery throughout the ride especially Cressbrook Mill. The trail goes through 6 of the old tunnels which are now tarmacced and lit but bike lights are a good idea as they are still quite dim. We went on a Monday and there were still quite a few cyclists and walkers, a bell is a must, and I imagine it gets very busy at weekends. All in all a great day out added to our list of favourites, highly recommended. See more..
4.5 Treak Cliff Cavern (832 reviews)
- Self-Guided Tour
Monday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Caverns & Caves

Started as a Blue John mine over 300 years ago, Treak Cliff Cavern continues to mine, process and manufacture ornamental items and jewellery from Blue John Stone today. On the 40 minute guided tour visitors can see the most abundant veins of Blue John Stone in the world and some of the 'finest stalactites' in the Peak District. We also have a shop with a vast array of rocks and minerals from around the world. Visit our free to enter museum and read about the history of the mine and see some beautiful antique Blue John ornaments, after which you can enjoy a slice of Blue John cake and refreshments from our on site cafe while admiring the view down the valley. See more..
4.5 Ladybower Reservoir (805 reviews)
- Beautiful!
Bodies of Water

We did the 5.5 mile walk as listed on Let’s Go Peak District. The walk was very enjoyable and the views are stunning! We parked at the Fairholmes Visitor Centre which is £5 all day - there are also toilets here and a cafe hut selling drinks and food. You can also hire bikes. We arrived around 8.30am, which I would recommend as it was so busy by the time we returned and parking had become quite limited. See more..
4.5 Eyam Museum (751 reviews)
- Eyam "The Village of the Dammed"
Monday: Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Historic Sites • History Museums

Find out about Bubonic Plague in the Peak District village where it killed over a third of the population in 1665- 1666. Learn about the black rats, the fleas that carried the disease, and see the stories of the families it affected. Understand how the village recovered afterwards. Only assistance dogs allowed. Last admission at 15.15. We may close throughout the day during term times to accommodate school groups. Please see our website for more details www.eyam-museum.org.uk See more..
4.5 Ilam Park (486 reviews)
- Pretty Area - Great for a Picnic
Parks

Ilam Park is cared for by the National Trust and offers space to play and explore, woodland walks and far reaching views towards Dovedale and Thorpe Cloud. The visitor centre, toilets, shop and tea-room are open daily throughout the year. Ilam Park welcomes dogs on leads all year round. Pay and display car park on site - Free parking for National Trust members. See more..
4.5 Eyam Hall & Craft Centre (477 reviews)
- Eyam Hall visit
Monday: Historic Sites

Eyam Courtyard is made up of the old farm buildings adjacent to Eyam Hall in the centre of Eyam. Come and browse the fascinating shops and eat at the beautiful Coolstone, built in the old stables. Please see the shops below to see what is on offer. The parking is also free! See more..
4.5 Tissington Trail (468 reviews)
- Great railway walk
Biking Trails

A nice walk with great views over the moors and dales of Derbyshire and Staffordshire border. I got a bus to near Hartington and walked to Ashbourne, about 14 miles. There was a little cafe on the trail at Tissington and when you get to Ashbourne you can go through the old tunnel to the town centre. There are buses from Ashbourne either back to Buxton or to Uttoxeter where you can pick up a train to Stoke. See more..
4.5 Derwent Dam (385 reviews)
- Wonderful trip
Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Dams

Was pleasantly surprised at the beauty and ease of our visit. The drive in was as beautiful as the dam. Parking was £3 for 2 hours or £5 for the day. We got there for 9am and parked fine but it does fill up quickly Little cafe, toilets and bike hire available I recommend you take a picnic as there’s so many beautiful places to eat! See more..
4.5 Longshaw Estate (346 reviews)
- Great for walks in Eastern peak district
Monday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails

Longshaw is a beautiful part of the Peak District looked after by the National Trust. From a family day out to a base for serious walkers and cyclists, Longshaw has trails for all abilities and interests. Look out for spectacular wildlife and opportunities for photographers, too. See more..
4.5 Hathersage Swimming Pool (304 reviews)
- Easter afternoon Splash
Monday: 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM Sports Complexes

Hathersage outdoor heated swimming pool is set in a lawned enclosure with a covered veranda to one side. During the summer months, It offers the opportunity to swim in the open air, amidst the glorious Peak District scenery, in water which is heated to 28°C See more..
4.5 Bakewell Old House Museum (282 reviews)
- A gem of a house and museum
Temporarily closed - Closed until Mar 24, 2023 Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Historical & Heritage Tours • Art Museums • History Museums

We had a very friendly welcome. The house itself is interesting, and a kind lady put a mask on when she saw we were wearing masks, then took us through its history. There are a lot of very diverse displays, because everything was donated by local residents. It felt like there was something for everyone. It is a steep walk up to the house but it was worth it. Definitely a good place to come in out of the rain! See more..
4.5 Eyam Parish Church of St Lawrence (268 reviews)
- Time to stop and ponder
Monday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Churches & Cathedrals

A Place, A People and A Passion Eyam is a place of pilgrimage where Christians have worshipped for 1,000 years and is currently the destination of the Peak Pilgrimage walk (please see website). The church building displays the inspirational story of the historical reality of the plague in 1665-66 and a community willingly sacrificing themselves for the sake of others. This continues to motivate the church family that meets in Eyam to this day. It also bears witness to another act of great sacrifice: the Christian message that God so loved his world that he gave his son Jesus Christ to die upon the cross. [Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. (John 15:13)] This is a historic church with much to see. Enjoy the murals of the tribes of Israel, the plague window, the plague register, Mompesson’s pulpit and chair, the Saxon font, sundial, Celtic Cross, graveyard and many other features. Nevertheless Eyam Church is not a museum looking to the past but a living, vibrant and modern worshipping church community where God is active today. It is a church of all ages, looking to serve the God of the Bible on Sundays and during the week. It has a strong commitment to youth work and families; a church with a heart for God and a heart for our community. The church is open daily and has a book and information stall. School trips by prior arrangement. See more..
4.5 David Mellor Design (185 reviews)
- Memorable and unique experience
Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

The David Mellor Cutlery Factory, Design Museum, Country Shop and Cafe - all on the same site. Just outside Hathersage in one of the most beautiful areas of Derbyshire, they provide a uniquely stimulating and enjoyable day out in the Peak District National Park. See more..
4.5 Thornbridge Brewery (185 reviews)
- Great tap room, worth a visit
Monday: Breweries

Visited the Tap Room for a short session on a brief visit to Bakewell. We pre booked as advised given the recent lockdown easing and only outside seating available. Well set up and organised for online ordering with a good range of beers; pizza choices good and well prepared etc. Would love to come back (without being designated driver) and with friends later in the year - would recommend highly but book in advance where you can as it was getting very busy. See more..