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Derbyshire’s Peak District is one of the UK’s largest and most beautiful natural beauty spots – it’s easy to see why it was the first area to be made a national park in the 1950s.
With stone villages frozen in time, magical walking trails through ancient woodland and the chance to snap snowy mountaintops on the horizon, the Peak District is one of the UK's best places to visit.
There’s plenty to discover in this stunning part of the countryside, whether you want a relaxing break or an active weekend away. The whole region is steeped in history too, and some of Britain’s most impressive stately homes have been built there.
What's more, this May, you can visit the Peak District with Flog It!'s Paul Martin as you go antiques shopping with the antiques expert.
The TV star is joining Good Housekeeping readers on an exclusive spring staycation, where you'll explore Chatsworth House with Paul, get to know Bolsover Castle and stay at a historic hotel in the spa town of Buxton.
Here are 10 reasons to visit the Peak District.
1. Magnificent stately homes
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The Peak District is home to some of the finest properties in the UK - grand homes which have hosted royalty and boast stunning art collections and elegant furniture. Tissington Hall, near the picturesque market town of Ashbourne, dates all the way back to the 1600s, while Bolsover Castle is straight out of the pages of a fairytale, and has spectacular views of the romantic countryside surrounding it.
Read More: 9 of the Best Places to Visit in 2022
You can visit our handpicked selection of the Peak District’s stately homes on our exclusive tour this year, when you’ll also explore the house and grounds at Chatsworth House and Haddon Hall, as well as hear from Paul about his TV career.
2. Inspiring landscapes
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You don’t need to travel to the Alps for spectacular mountain scenery - probably the most famous reason for visiting the Peaks is its unrivalled natural beauty. Wide valleys, rolling foothills and glassy lakes and rivers make up this remote rural region.
Try the ancient dam at Upper Derwent, take a cable car up to the Heights of Abraham, or enjoy a hike and picnic at the Roaches while you see some of the most iconic views in Britain.
3. Charming towns and villages
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Fancy a break from walking? Rest up in one of the area’s picturesque villages, where you’ll find old inns with a crackling fires, artisan bakers and bubbling streams.
Bakewell, which gifted the world the famous cake, is the Peak District’s biggest town – but it’s still full of sleepy medieval charm. Or, if you’re starting a walk along the Pennine Way, explore nostalgic Edale first, with its cute stone cottages.
4. Lovely country strolls
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The Peak District is a magnet for walkers and with so many routes to choose from, it’s easy to see why. Experienced hikers are spoiled for towering summits, but there’s plenty for those who prefer a more gentle amble through the countryside too.
Try a wander around the Ladybower Reservoir for unforgettable scenery that isn’t too taxing to explore, or the Monsal Trail, which runs along an old railway line between Chee Dale and Bakewell.
5. …and more challenging hikes
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For the most incredible views, it’s worth putting in the work and hiking up some of the highest peaks.
Wrap up warm and pack sturdy boots because there are some steep climbs, but getting to the top of Win Hill is a real victory – and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over Ladybower Reservoir below. The Peak District’s highest point is ‘Kinder Scout’, which you can walk to from Edale.
6. Gorgeous hotels
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After a joyful day of walking, there’s nothing better than treating yourself to a stay at a really cosy, luxurious hotel. Luckily the Peak District has lots of them, from boutique rooms above old pubs, to grand properties with blissful spas and sweeping gardens.
On our exclusive Good Housekeeping break in the Peak District, you’ll stay at Old Hall in Buxton, a grand country manor which Robinson Crusoe author Daniel Defoe described as “a very special place with its own special feeling”.
Read More: 4 Tips for First Time International Travelers
7. Amazing wildlife
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As the UK’s first national park, the Peak District is a haven for cute creatures big and small. You’ll certainly spot grazing sheep – a ram is Derbyshire’s traditional symbol – but keep your eyes peeled for some more unusual animals too.
You might see peregrine and merlin falcons in the sky, and if you head high up into the hills you could catch sight of a mountain hare hopping across the grass in its white winter fur.
8. Exciting water sports
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Even though it's landlocked, the Peak District is a popular destination for all sorts of water sports, from canoeing and kayaking to paddle boarding, sailing or simply wild swimming.
The landscape here is dotted with scenic rivers, lakes and reservoirs, and there are plenty of clubs that can organise an action-packed day for adventurous visitors to the region.
9. Delicious food
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Hearty meals are a must when you’re out exploring the countryside and luckily the Peak District is a hungry traveller’s dream, with tasty local produce on offer everywhere you go.
If you fancy fine dining, the area has several award-winning restaurants, like at The Gallery at The Cavendish Hotel, or for a more traditional lunch just pop into one of the region’s charming pubs. Either way, a visit to the Peak District is a great way to celebrate the best of rural British cuisine.
10. Insta-perfect moments
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Whether you’re an amateur or a pro, you’ll definitely be leaving the Peak District with some stunning photos. Thanks to its awe-inspiring landscapes, sweeping mountain views, woodland walks and secret clearings, the Peak District definitely doesn’t need a filter.
The whole place is a nature and wildlife photographer’s dream, while the region’s towns and villages are the ideal backdrop for that one perfect shot.
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