In this guide, we share the best things to do in the Peak District National Park, from iconic walks and historic houses to family-friendly attractions.

Located in the heart of England, the Peak District is famous for its dramatic landscapes, distinctive limestone scenery, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.  As the UK’s first national park, it’s one of England’s most beautiful destinations, and attracts walkers, cyclists, photographers, history lovers and families throughout the year.

With miles of walking and cycling trails, grand stately homes, charming market towns, and family-friendly attractions, there really is something for everyone.  Whether you’re planning a weekend break or a longer stay, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

We’ve just spent a week exploring the Peak District with teenagers and had a fantastic time, proving that this stunning national park works perfectly for visitors of all ages.

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Read on for our 10 marvellous things to do in the Peak District National Park

With thousands of miles of scenic trails, one of the top reasons to visit the Peak District is for the walking.  Its varied terrain makes it a paradise for hikers, from gentle strolls to more challenging hilltop routes.

One of the most popular and rewarding walks in the Peak District is Mam Tor, also known as the Shivering Mountain.  This iconic ridge walk offers breathtaking, panoramic views over Edale and the Hope Valley, making it a must-do for first-time visitors.

Despite its dramatic setting, Mam Tor is accessible for most abilities, and it’s a great introduction to Peak District hiking.  However, there are plenty of other great walks nearby, so you don’t need to be an experienced hiker to enjoy the area.

For history-lovers and Jane Austen fans, one of the very best things to do in the Peak District is to visit Chatsworth House.

Located near Bakewell in Derbyshire, Chatsworth House is one of England’s most impressive stately homes and famously featured as Mr Darcy’s home in Pride and Prejudice.  The house sits withing a vast estate, surrounded by rolling parkland and beautifully designed gardens.

Inside, visitors can explore lavish interiors and an outstanding art collection.  Outside, the 105-acre gardens are filled with water features, giant sculptures, and sweeping views.  For families, there’s a maze, adventure playground, and mini farmyard, making it a great family-friendly Peak District attraction.

Chatsworth House is consistently ranked among the top attractions in the Peak District National Park, and it’s easy to see why.

Padley Gorge is one of the most atmospheric places in the Peak District.  This deep-sided river gorge in Derbyshire feels almost other-worldly, with twisted trees, moss-covered boulders, and tumbling streams.

The walk to Padley Gorge usually starts at the National Trust’s Longshaw Estate, leading you through ancient oak woodland and along the Burbage Brook.  It’s a favourite with walkers,  photographers, and nature-lovers alike.

Just 10 miles from Sheffield, Padley Gorge is ideal for a peaceful half-day walk and is especially magical in autumn.  If you’re looking for scenic walks in the Peak District, this one shouldn’t be missed.

Read more:  A walk to the mystical Padley Gorge

The Heights of Abraham is one of the most unique family attractions in the Peak District and a great day out for families.  Located in the historic spa town of Matlock Bath, this hilltop country park has been welcoming visitors since the 19^th century.

Your visit begins with a memorable ride on the alpine-style cable car, which gives you views of the Derwent Valley below.

At the summit, highlights include guided tours of the illuminated show caves, adventure playgrounds, woodland walks, and the Victoria Prospect Tower.  I really enjoyed the informative video about the construction of the cable car.  Altogether, it’s a great mix of history, scenery and fun.

Admission prices and opening times for Heights of Abraham .

The Derwent Dam is an incredible landmark in the heart of the Peak District.  Not only is it a brilliant feat of engineering, but one of the test sites for Barnes Wallis’ new bouncing bombs.  During World War II, it was used by RAF Squadron 617 to carry out a daring training exercise to practise low level flying ahead of the Dambuster raids.

The dam sits alongside the Howden and Ladybower Reservoirs, all of which are surrounded by dramatic Peak District scenery.  Today, the area is popular with walkers and nature-lovers, with access to classic routes such as Bamford Edge and Alport Castles.

If you’re interested in history, photography, or scenic walks, this is one of the most fascinating places to visit in the Peak District.

One of the best things to do in the Peak District with kids is a visit to Gulliver’s Kingdom in Matlock Bath.  Set high above the town, this family theme park is designed especially for younger children.

There are around 20 rides across six themed areas, including log flumes, flying bikes, and gentle rollercoasters.  As well as rides, kids can enjoy play areas, climbing frames, crazy golf, and an indoor play barn, plus a dedicated Toyland for under-5s.

It’s a relaxed theme park and a great choice for families visiting the Peak District.

Click for admission prices and opening hours at Gulliver’s Kingdom

Perched high on a limestone crag, Thor’s Cave is one of the Peak District’s most dramatic natural landmarks.  From the entrance of this impressive cave, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views over the Manifold Valley.

The walk starts from the pretty village of Wetton and is suitable for most abilities, although the final climb into the cave is not that easy.

Once inside, you can explore the cavern and soak up one of the best viewpoints in the Staffordshire Peak District.

No visit to the Peak District is complete without a stop in Bakewell, the region’s largest town and home of the original Bakewell Pudding.

Set on the banks of the River Wye, Bakewell is a charming market town, with independent shops, riverside walks, and a historic Lovelock Bridge.  Naturally, a visit to the Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop is essential.

Bakewell also makes a great base for exploring nearby attractions such as Chatsworth House or Hadden Hall.

Read more:  Best things to do in Bakewell

For a change of pace from hill walking, the Monsal Trail is one of the best cyclic routes in the Peak District.  This traffic-free trail follows the path of a disused railway line, passing though limestone dales, tunnels, and viaducts.

Stretching for 8.5 miles between Bakewell and Blackwell Mill, it’s flat and family friendly, making it ideal for beginners.  Bike hire is available nearby and there’s cafés along the route, including the popular Millers Dale Café.

We’ve done the Monsal Trail by on foot and by bike, and it’s one of our favourite Peak District experiences.

Read more:  Cycle the Monsal Trail

For a high-energy day out, Alton Towers, lies just outside the Peak District in Staffordshire.  As it’s the UK’s largest theme park, it offers world-class rollercoasters alongside attractions for all ages.

Thrill-seekers will love rides like Nemesis Reborn and Oblivion, while families can enjoy gentler attractions, water rides and CBeebies Land for younger children.

You can even stay overnight in one of the themed resort hotels. to make the most of your visit.

Click here for admission prices and opening hours at Alton Towers.

There’s a wide range of accommodation in the Peak District National Park, from luxury hotels to cosy self-catering cottages.  Our top picks include:

• Losehill House Hotel & Spa – luxury hotel with spa facilities
• Wildhive Callow Hall – a stylish country house hotel
• Foxlow Grange – elegant accommodation within a historic building
• Bike & Boot Inn – modern hotel in a beautiful Peak District setting

There’s also an excellent choice of high quality self-catering accommodation across the region.

This map includes all the best things to do in the Peak District, including cycle trails, walks, attractions and the best places to visit.  You can use it to plan your own itinerary in the Peak District.

To save the map to Google Maps on your phone or computer, click on the star next to the title. Once you do this, you’ll be able to find the map in your “saved maps” list on your phone.

To see a list of all the items on the map, click the box with arrow on the left. To enlarge the map, click the box on the right.

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