Discover hidden secrets in Peak District towns and villages

Often described as the heart of the Peak District, this charming market town on the River Wye has it all — picturesque riverside walks, fascinating heritage and history, including All Saints’ Church and the Old House Museum, as well as a wonderful selection of independent shops, art galleries, restaurants, and cafés. It’s also the only place where you can sample the town’s famous delicacy — the Bakewell Pudding. Legend has it that the pudding was created by mistake by a local cook in the mid-19th century. Today, you can find versions of the pudding in bakeries and cafés across the country, but to experience the authentic taste, Bakewell is the place to be.

Take a stroll through the town and discover its scenic buildings, charming courtyards, and pretty streets, or watch the ducks along the riverside walk. With its mellow stone buildings, medieval five-arched bridge, and quaint courtyards, it’s a magnet for sightseers and anyone interested in history.

Set in the heart of the High Peak and surrounded by hills, dales, and valleys, Castleton is the perfect base for exploring the Hope Valley. It’s a haven for walkers, climbers, cyclists, and anyone seeking stunning scenery. The village itself is full of charm, with inviting inns, cosy cafés, and delightful jewellery shops showcasing the local speciality — Blue John stone. Nearby, you can explore the ancient ruins of Peveril Castle, the iconic ‘Shivering Mountain’ of Mam Tor, and the remarkable caverns that have attracted visitors for generations. 

Visitors to Buxton today can also enjoy the beautifully landscaped and recently restored Pavilion Gardens, with its elegant formal borders, sweeping lawns, play areas, and a welcoming family-friendly café and shop. For those who love a spot of shopping, the town offers a delightful mix of independent boutiques and familiar High Street names at The Springs Shopping Centre, Cavendish Arcade, and The Old Court House. And when it comes to dining, there’s something to suit every taste—from leisurely lunches and traditional afternoon teas to relaxed dinners in charming cafés, tea rooms, and restaurants.

One of the most popular destinations in the Peak District, Matlock offers plenty to see and do. At its heart lies Hall Leys Park, with its picturesque lake, riverside walks, tennis courts, and skate park. The town centre is full of charm, with pretty streets lined with small independent shops, local cafés, welcoming pubs, and restaurants — perfect places to relax and unwind. 

Just a mile and a half to the south, Matlock Bath is a lively town that developed as one of England’s first true tourist destinations. It has been attracting visitors since the late 17th century. A favourite spot for families, bikers, and fun seekers, Matlock Bath has something for everyone. Take a cable car ride to the Heights of Abraham, a historic 60-acre hilltop estate, and enjoy cavern tours, exhibitions, adventure playgrounds, and much more.

This picture-perfect village on the River Wye is full of charm, with welcoming inns, beautiful old stone cottages, and a lovely 13th-century church. Don’t miss the delightful Sheepwash Bridge, once used for dipping sheep before shearing — one of the most photographed spots in the Peak District. Visit during well dressing time in early summer, from the Saturday before Trinity Sunday, to see the village come alive with a colourful and impressive display of local art.

With its rich history, Hathersage is the perfect town from which to start exploring. The village is brimming with character and has an excellent selection of shops, pubs, and restaurants. Hathersage is famous for its local literary links and legends — the village inspired Charlotte Brontë when writing Jane Eyre. It is also home to the David Mellor Design Museum, which includes a café and a museum dedicated to the renowned cutlery designer. 

Situated to the north, Stanage Edge is a popular spot for walkers, offering stunning views of the Dark Peak moorlands and the Hope Valley. 

The beautiful historic village of Eyam became famous for its bravery during the Black Death of 1665–1666. At the heart of the village stands the Town Hall, a 17th century building. Enjoy the courtyard, home to a craft centre selling everything from Harington cheese to handcrafted jewellery, while The Buttery serves light lunches and refreshments. Opposite the hall are the village stocks, once used by Eyam’s Barmote Court to deal with the misdeeds of local lead miners. Nearby, the Church of St Lawrence, dating back to Saxon times, has its original font and Norman pillars, thought to rest on Saxon foundations. The oldest and most striking feature in the churchyard is its eighth-century Celtic Cross – one of the best preserved in the country, decorated with a mix of Christian and pagan symbols, and believed to have once been a wayside preaching cross.