Idyllic England: Derbyshire & the Peak District

It’s time to leave the big city behind and travel to the Peak District; the region of wild peaks, rugged moorlands, and pretty time-worn cottages. The Peak District was the UK’s first national park in 1951 and its landscape blends limestone dales, windswept moorlands, and lush green pastures.

Your first stop is in Eyam, a village that faced unimaginable adversity when the plague broke out here in 1665. Today, this now lively village is packed with cottages marked with plaques that list the names of the plague victims. It might sound a bit macabre, but we assure you this little spot is as charming and beautiful as it is historic. Moved by stories of solidarity and strength, you travel onwards to Bakewell. Not only is this town delicious to look at, but it’s also the home of one of England’s most famous desserts, the Bakewell Pudding, a beloved English dessert with a sweet almond topping. This is our lunch stop for today so make sure to fill your stomachs!

With life feeling a bit sweeter now, you venture to Monsal Head. There’s an old rail line viaduct that emerges from green hills to create a unique vista. It’s a gorgeous structure with an impressive history. We’ve got another treat for you, a stop in Castleton. This quaint old town attracts travellers from all over the world for its traditional English charm. You can wander the streets and learn its history at an insightful information centre. You will also have a chance to go on an optional visit to the Peak’s Cavern. This cave has an outrageous nickname, the largest natural entrance, used to be a hideout for robbers and now it sometimes acts as a concert venue.

After a day of delicious treats, spectacular views, and poignant history, you travel back to Manchester via the dramatic and winding mountain road known as the ‘Snake Pass’. Breathtaking views of rugged moorlands, sweeping valleys and heather-clad hills await you as the road twists and turns. The road was engineered by Scottish civil engineer Thomsa Telford and opened in 1821 and is a thrilling mix of natural beauty and engineering, making it one of England’s most iconic roads.