Chatsworth and The Peak District

The Peak District was Britain’s first National Park and is, arguably, still the best, worthy of its status as the most popular. Within its boundaries lies a varied landscape where grand country houses and neat villages occupy lush valleys, while craggy edges mark the beginning of open heather moorland. Linking two market towns typical of the area, Hathersage and Castleton, this walk allows you to discover the very essence of ‘the Peak’. Over the three days of walking, you cross very diverse terrain, including the banks of the River Derwent, heather-clad moorland, panoramic gritstone edges and fertile farmland.

You stay at a country pub in Hathersage for the first two nights and one of two guesthouses in Castleton for the other two. All stays are on a bed and breakfast basis, leaving you free to take your pick of the restaurants and inns in each village. The accommodation has just a handful of rooms, so we work with a couple of guesthouses; where you stay will depend entirely on availability.

Country pub, Hathersage:
This is a 16th-century inn set in an idyllic location on the banks of the river, half a mile from the town centre. The warmth of the welcome is matched by the cosy bar with its real log fire, while the comfortable rooms are decorated and furnished to a high standard. We thoroughly recommend dining in the inn’s excellent restaurant (pay locally).

Farmhouse, Castleton:
Situated in a very picturesque location on the outskirts of Castleton at the foot of Mam Tor, this working sheep farm and guesthouse has beautiful views across the Hope Valley. The farm is ½ mile from the centre of the village via the footpath across the fields and ¾ mile via the footpath along the road.

Guesthouse, Castleton:
Located in a quiet position in the old marketplace, this is a lovingly restored cottage dating from 1610. The house oozes comfort, with solid wooden antique furniture and sumptuous drapes, while breakfast is a hearty affair served in the beautiful dining room

Traveller Reviews of This Trip

The walks were great, well-designed and well-pitched to get us going and into the rhythmic swing of the holiday. The route directions were spot on every time and very clear, as well as taking us on a wonderful mix of terrain and routes. Without your directions we would never have found the route we followed, nor worked it out with the map alone (and I am an experienced map reader). I don't think it could have been bettered. An excellent holiday, well-judged, professionally delivered and perfect for our needs. Thank you. Mrs P Yiend, Godalming, 18/07/2011

We felt the the break was very well organised and incorporated good accommodation and fantastic, challenging walks. The scenery was beautiful. Mr I, Kent, 21/04/2010 

For more reviews of this trip, see: Reviews of Walking in The Peak District