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      Self Drive Collection

      The Peak District

      Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights

      From £1,325 Book Now

      Travel Planning & Advice

      Book With Confidence

      Trip created by Jane Gillies
      View Jane's Profile

      Region: The Peak District
      Trip Type: Self Drive
      Accommodation: Classic
      Confirmed: When 2 Traveller(s) Book
      Deposit From: £331.25 £331.25

      Grading: Your Own Pace

      Carbon Footprint: 56kg ? What does this mean?
      Click here to find out about our carbon labelling project and what we're doing to be more sustainable.

      All you need to know about your trip, this essential document is a must for all adventures.

      Download Itinerary

      In 1951 the Peak District, in the heart of central England, became the first area in the UK to be designated as a national park to protect the outstanding natural beauty, wildlife and culture of the area. With its rounded hills, miles of wild moor, deep limestone gorges, and gritstone escarpments, the landscape has inspired artists and writers for centuries and continues to be a popular place for location filming. 

      It is easy to see why this area served as the inspiration for several key scenes in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice and as the location for a Sherlock Holmes mystery. The Peak District’s wonderful places to walk, beautiful countryside and rich history make it the perfect place to enjoy a short break. As well as taking you on memorable hikes and pausing to appreciate the flora and fauna, your expert guide will share stories of secret places and local legends. There will also be plenty of time to explore fascinating historic sites and wander around stately homes and gardens at your own pace.

      This Peak District trip is part of our exciting collection of self-drive itineraries. You can enjoy this trip as a short break, or choose to extend your holiday by adding on one or more of our other itineraries in this range. Suitable for families, couples and groups of friends, the exciting and varied activities on these trips will be tailored to your interests and preferences, making them accessible to all ages and levels of experience. With the option to upgrade accommodation and add on extra days and activities, you are sure to find your perfect adventure.

      This price is based on a group of 4, prices will vary depending on group size. Please get in touch with our team to confirm the trip price for your group.

      Trip Highlights

      • Experience the beauty of the Peak District National Park with guided hikes and the option to climb to the highest point in the region.
      • Enjoy quaint villages and impressive stately homes.
      • Stay in hand-picked accommodation.
      • Explore at your own pace with self-guided options and time to relax.
      • Upgrade the accommodation and add on extra days and activity.

      Day by Day Itinerary

      Day 1 - Arrive Hathersage

      Arrive in the popular village of Hathersage. This bustling village at the eastern edge of the Hope Valley was said to be a favourite of Charlotte Brontë and is the perfect base for your adventure in the Peak District. Spend the afternoon exploring the village, and visiting the quirky shops and cafes, as well as the Church of St Michael where Robin Hood’s lieutenant Little John is buried. For something a little different visit the Round Building on the edge of the village. This multi-award winning architecturally designed site comprises the David Mellor Cutlery Factory, Design Museum, Country Shop and Café providing a unique and enjoyable outing.

      Day 2 - Guided Hiking - Stanage Edge

      Meet your guide this morning to discuss options for today’s hike. A great choice would be the impressive gritstone escarpment of Stanage Edge which stretches for miles. The route can be adapted to suit you, taking into account how far you would like to walk and what you would like to see en route, such as the 16th century tower that was the inspiration for Thornfield Hall in Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre. As you hike along the escarpment your guide will explain the fascinating geology and nature of the area as well as the impact of 4,000 years of human history. When the hillside was quarried in the past, thousands of millstones were carved; many of them were abandoned and can still be seen today. Robin’s Hood Cave is hard to find, but your guide will lead you down a rocky path to the entrance which is located down the cliff face. As you explore the cave, it’s interesting to wonder how many people must have used this cave for shelter, and what stories these 350-million-year old rocks could tell. Enjoy the sweeping views as you walk along the top of the escarpment before strolling through woodland and wildflower meadows on the way back to the village and the end of the hike. (B)

      Day 3 - Guided Hiking

      Join your guide for another day of wonderful hiking. One option is to start from the pretty little village of Hope and hike through the atmospheric valley of Cave Dale to the viewpoint of Mam Tor. As the name suggests this area is riddled with caves and interesting rock formations formed in the limestone by glaciers. The views from the elevated ridge are stunning. Alternatively, you may prefer to hike to Kinder Scout, a moorland plateau and national nature reserve and the highest point in the Peak District. It is one of the harder walks, but certainly one of the most rewarding, justifying the meaning of its name, “wide views.” The plateau was the site of the 1932 mass trespass which led to public access of open lands. You’ll visit Edale Cross which is located on what was an ancient route across open moorland and served as a medieval boundary marking the edge of a royal forest. Kinder Downfall, a 30m waterfall, is also worth a visit as the pool below is said to be home to a mermaid who can grant immortality to those who see her. Whatever option you choose you’re sure to have a fantastic hike and will enjoy a well-deserved dinner this evening. (B)

      Day 4 - Free Day to Explore

      A great option is to visit the charming village of Bakewell. Although probably best known for the delicious pudding, this village is a charming place to explore with local shops and markets as well as interesting architecture. The magnificent stately home and gardens of Chatsworth House are not to be missed. You could spend hours wandering through the 105 acres of grounds alone, famous for its rich history, Victorian rock garden, fountains, sculptures and an arboretum. The beautiful house belongs to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, and has been passed down through 16 generations of the Cavendish family. This grand building is in itself a work of art, with intricate murals, architecture and furniture, and is home to an incredible art collection, including rare sketches, a sculpture gallery, and jewellery, including tiaras made for the Duchess. It’s well worth checking what special events may coincide with your holiday dates. (B)

      Day 5 - Explore and Depart

      After a relaxed breakfast, you might enjoy a dip in the Hathersage’s outdoor heated swimming pool and a final stroll through the quaint streets of the village. After lunch, head for home or extend your trip by adding one or more of the additional activities on offer. You may also want to link this trip with one of our other Self-Drive Collection itineraries for a longer adventure. (B)

      Optional Extra - Guided Hiking

      Get to know the beautiful hills and valleys of the Peak District with an expert hiking guide. Head off the beaten track with routes tailored to you and discover the fascinating geology and the history of the landscape.

      Optional Extra - Explore the Heights of Abraham

      Spend the day exploring this 230-year-old estate. You could either take the cable car to the summit of Masson hill and the hilltop park or walk up the steep zig-zag path. The park includes a fossil museum, a Victorian tower offering panoramic views, and two incredible underground caverns that were formed over 300 million years ago.

      Optional Extra - Caving 

      If you are seeking adrenaline-filled thrills why not try caving? Under the tutelage of an expert caving instructor and with all specialised equipment included you’ll explore the impressive networks of caves and mine shafts. Or take an underground boat trip through the caverns – an exhilarating way to spend a day.

      Download Itinerary

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      Self Drive
      The Peak District

      To download a PDF copy of our Trip Itinerary, containing full details about this holiday, please complete the form below:

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      Book Now

      Price from: £1,325
      Duration: 5 Days 4 Nights

      Trip Details

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      Accommodation Read More

      You will be based in the Peak District at one of our excellent, hand-picked accommodation partners. The accommodation on this trip will generally be in a small hotel or guest house. However, if you would like to upgrade the accommodation on this trip to deluxe or 5* luxury please get in touch.

      Single Rooms

      Single occupancy rooms are available for a small supplement. Please get in touch with the team to book.

      Meals Read More

      At all stages of your trip you will be able to enjoy delicious meals prepared from superb local ingredients.

      Breakfasts are included at your accommodation. Packed lunches are not included in the trip, but will be available from your hotel or a local cafe/ deli if requested the night before. Your guide can help make local restaurant suggestions.

      Inclusions Read More
      • 4 nights accommodation with breakfast each day
      • 2 days of privately guided hikes, led by an expert Wilderness England guide
      • Personalised trip design and delivery
      • Expert local suggestions for restaurants and activities
      • Detailed trip itinerary and map
      • Pre-trip care and 24 hour in country support from the Wilderness team
      Travel Read More
      • This trip starts in Hathersage
      • This is a self drive holiday – you can bring your own car or we can recommend car hire companies.
      Upgrade and Customise Your Trip Read More

      This trip is designed to be tailored to your preferences. Choose to upgrade the accommodation or add on extra days and activities to create your perfect adventure.

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      Speak to an Expert

      View Profile
      Jane Gillies

      Our friendly office team hail from across the world but share a passion for the outdoor and wild spaces of Britain & Ireland. We are committed to providing you with the best customer service and are more than happy to chat through options and provide help and advice. Get in touch to find your perfect adventure.

      Ask Jane a Question

      Difficulty Grades Explained

      At Your Own Pace

      On this adventure you will be accompanied by a Wilderness Scotland hiking guide for several days, who will be able to suggest and lead you on a range of hikes from gentle low level rambles to challenging days visiting remote summits. Just let them know what type of hike you would like to do and they will be ready!

      On the other days of the trip you will self guided and can explore at whatever pace you feel comfortable.

      Our holidays reviewed
      in your own words

      This trip was amazing, we got to see so much of the 5 countries in so little time. The sites and locations that were mapped out were perfect. A rest day in Dublin is the perfect city to explore and find good food. The guides were knowledgeable and thoughtful, and made the trip very easy, all we had to do was bike and show up to dinner! Absolutely awesome experience.

      Daniel Patton
      Road Cycling - The Five Countries
      Reviewed on 29/08/2022

      Rated 4.95 out of 5 based on 703 reviews

      Read More Reviews

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