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Peak District - Britain's first national park
Britain's first national park and Europe's busiest is a diverse landscape, comprising heather-dappled moorland, murky limestone caves, gentle hills and gritstone outcrops. It straddles several counties in central northern England.
“My first experience of rock climbing was so scary but the rush was amazing. The Peak District is a really romantic landscape but it’s the climbing that gets me going. It has to have some of the best in the UK.”
Joss, Slough
Deemed as the first bit of unspoilt Britain worth preserving, the Peak District was named a National Park in 1951. Industrial heritage and rugged beauty sit comfortably beside opulent stately homes like Chatsworth House and Haddon Hall , and mysterious prehistoric sites like Arbor Low.
As well as some of the most dramatic scenery in Britain, the Peak District has heritage museums, dank, spooky caves, gorgeous Georgian architecture in Buxton, and Chatsworth House – the inspiration for Pemberley in Pride and Prejudice. Something for everyone and then some!
Markets have been a part of Peak District life for centuries and sell local food, goods and crafts. You'll also find antique shops, artists' studios and enticing independent book shops in local villages. To try the region's sweetest treat, a stop at The Original Bakewell Pudding Shop is a must.
Top daytime must-do's | Top night time must-do's |
|---|---|
Visit Chatsworth House , the quintessential English stately home. | Catch a show at Buxton's lovingly restored Opera House . |
Explore Bakewell, home to the famous pudding and the excellent Old House Museum . | If you're only here for the day, experience the darkest night in the Peak District's underground caverns! |
See genteel Buxton, a historic spa town famous for its pure, clear mineral water. | Sing along at the International Gilbert and Sullivan Festival in Buxton. |
Amble up the rolling hills of the limestone White Peak… | Find accommodation in the Peak District easily with our accommodation search. |
…or hike to the wild Dark Peak for peat bogs, windswept moorland and rocky outcrops | Relax with a real ale in a cosy Peak District pub. |
You'll find local organic farmers, butchers and bakers producing a scrumptious range of authentic breads, cheeses and meats. Cosy pubs and traditional restaurants pepper the area and farmers' markets abound. Be sure to try the local beers which are famous throughout Britain.
Walking, rambling, scrambling - the Peak District is perfect for getting out and about. And if you like your climbing, you've come to the right place. The signature gritstone escarpments, thrust up through the moors, offer some of the best around. If you prefer your thrills below ground, there's potholing aplenty.
To make your trip to the Peak District easier, you can buy tickets to attractions, travel passes, and much more at our online shop, and avoid the queues. For more great offers, go to VisitBritain Shop .
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