hidden gems in the Peak District
- holidays
- places to visit
When you think about the Peak District, most would think about the popular spots like Mam Tor, Bakewell and Chatsworth House.
But, if you look further, there are so many incredible hidden gems beyond the popular tourist destinations. Whether you want to discover tucked-away villages, secret caves, forgotten trails or panoramic viewpoints, there is a hidden gem perfect for you. So, if you are looking to escape the Peak District as a seasoned hiker or someone looking for a peaceful getaway, our list of hidden gems below could be the perfect additions to your plans.
Castleton
Hope Valley, S33 8WH | 41 minute drive from resort
Castleton is a beautiful village located in Hope Valley in the Peak District. It’s a charming village that isn’t as popular as some but worth visiting during your stay in the area. It’s known for its stone buildings, scenic landscapes and quaint shops and cafes and there is plenty to see and do from the area. There are four different caves that are accessible through guided tours from Castleton, Blue John Cavern, Peak Cavern, Speedwell Cavern and Treak Cliff Cavern. The popular tourist spot Mam Tor is also only a short drive away from Castleton.
Stanage Edge
Hope Valley, S10 4QZ | 41 minute drive from resort
Another place to explore in the Hope Valley is Stanage Edge. Especially if you are an avid walker or you are looking for some impressive and slightly less popular viewpoints in the Peak District. It is just round from the more popular Bamford Edge but still offers just as breathtaking views from the top. The most popular walk to do up to Stanage Edge is a 7km circular walk which takes you from Hollin Bank Car Park where you can enjoy the view of the entire ridge during the duration of your climb to the top.
Monsal Trail
Bakewell, DE45 1NL | 23 minute drive from resort
If you are after a walk that is flat, mud free and still provides you with some incredible views of the Peak District the Monsal Trail could be perfect. It’s an 8.5 mile long stetch going from Bakewell to Chee Dale and follows the former Manchester to London Midland Railway line which closed in the 60s. Along the route you will walk over a viaduct, through tunnels and along rivers. It is a perfect walk for those with children, or those wanting a bike ride or even just if you are after a long flat walk. The best part about it is you can choose the length, either do the full route or turn around and head back whenever you please.
Jacob’s Ladder
Hope Valley, S33 7ZJ | 52 minute drive from resort
Jacobs Ladder is an iconic bridleway between Kinder Scout and Vale of Edale and is named after Jacob Marshall who farmed the land at the top of Jacob’s Ladder in the 18th century. The walk offers some amazing views across the Peak District and Jacob’s Ladder itself has around 274 stone steps to climb up, but the views make it worth it. From the car park you can either enjoy the walk to the top of the steps and back or continue and enjoy a full circular style walk.
Lumsdale Valley
Matlock, DE4 5LB | 29 minute drive from resort
Lumsdale Valley can be found just outside of Matlock town and is probably known best for its historic water powered mills. Whilst you’re in the Peak District you should explore this wooded gorge and discover the waterfalls, ponds and industrial remains which were abandoned in the 1920s. The walk to see the waterfall is a short circular walk taking no longer than an hour to complete but is a nice one to add onto your day of exploring the Peak District.
Padley Gorge
Hope Valley, S32 2JA | 34 minute drive from resort
Owned by the National Trust, Padley Gorge and Burbage Brook is a great walk to enjoy in the Peak District that doesn’t involve too many climbs but has some incredible views still. The walk itself takes around an hour and you will be able to enjoy a variety of terrains as you make your way through a meadow, along a pond and through the woodland of Padley Gorge. There is a café at the National Trust Longshaw just up the road which you can enjoy on your walk too.