In the heart of England lies the Peak District, a place where local lore, gnarled forests and expansive moorlands create an enchantingly beautiful setting. Scattered with picturesque, medieval market towns and dramatic geological features that score the landscape, it’s easy to see why the Peak District National Park was the first to be established in the United Kingdom.
With thousands of miles of footpaths – including a stretch of the famed Pennine Way – crisscrossing this bewitching landscape, and the certainty of a warm, northern welcome, there are many reasons to visit.
Follow in the footsteps of Mr Darcy at Chatsworth House
With over 2900 listed buildings, the Peak District isn’t short of impressive houses, but the jewel in its crown has to be the world-renowned Chatsworth House. It’s home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire and you may recognize it as the filming location for Pemberley, Mr Darcy’s residence in the 2005 film adaptation of Pride and Prejudice. Bask in the splendor at one of its many spectacular events throughout the year, including the annual Regency Ball and Country Fair. On a budget? Pack a picnic and take a stroll through the parkland before choosing a spot down by the river to enjoy lunch with an unobstructed view of the house.
Explore the thermal spa town of Buxton
A holiday destination since Victorian times, the town of Buxton certainly hasn’t lost its charm. In 2020 its most famous Georgian landmark, the Grade I-listed Buxton Crescent, finally reopened as a five-star hotel after a refurbishment that took 17 years to complete. And the spa inside uses Buxton’s natural thermal waters, resurrecting the wellness traditions that originally put the town on the map. Also not to be missed is the beautifully preserved Buxton Opera House which runs tours and hosts an impressive lineup of comedy, dance, opera, music and theater acts including big-hitters such as Jimmy Carr, Jools Holland, Cara Dillon and Sir Ian McKellen.
It’s dangerously easy to lose an entire afternoon browsing the secondhand books and curling up in a hidden corner at Scrivener’s Books, and The Arches at Hogshaw Mill provides ample opportunity to pick up a gift or, if you time it right, to attend one of its gin tasting evenings. Be sure to call in at…
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