The Peak District

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.

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.

Meals Included: Breakfast

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.

Meals Included: Breakfast

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.

Meals Included: Breakfast

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.

Meals Included: Breakfast

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.

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.

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.