Wander Mak

The Peak District, where narrow roads are dwarfed by the lush mesmeric limestone cliffs and drystone, ancient villages and market towns scattered throughout the United Kingdom’s first National Park. Quaint cottages and their fragrant rose gardens are a common sight amidst streams of water produce the World’s purest spring water.

This national park is without doubt worthy of the acclaim as one of the most beautiful regions in the UK. In addition to the visual appeal, the district is home to traditional and famous baked goods such as the Bakewell pudding and Derbyshire oatcakes as well as many others; making the district not only a culinary adventure but also a surprise, as all will be revealed!

From exploring ancient caves across rugged hills, indulging in freshly baked goods, swimming in the purest water in the world and exploring ancient ruins;

Here’s the 5 top villages and towns in the Peak District that you must see!

1. Castleton

Appearing to be torn straight from the pages of a fairy tale book, Castleton village is mottled with quintessentially english stone cottages and lush greenery that is engulfed by the rolling, yet rugged limestone caves that boast rare crystals and scenic walking trails. Ruins of the medieval Norman castle, Peveril castle watch over this beautiful settlement. In addition to the timeless character, this destination boasts artisan boutiques, cosy pubs serving fine cask ales and breathtaking camping grounds that make it the perfect getaway for any lover of the great outdoors.

2. Tissington

Located in the south of the Peak District, the small village of Tissington is dotted with holiday cottages and surrounded with lofty farm land with blooming fields. This lesser known spot is perfect for a weekend admiring nature, warming yourself in front of the fire and reading until your hearts’ content.

3. Bakewell

Bakewell is the beating heart of the Peak District. The charming english country town lanes, vibrant gardens that line the stone buildings play host to community events such as the Bakewell Carnival and the International Dance Festival. The bustling town truly is the champion of the Peak District culture. Bakewell is also home to the Bakewell pudding and Derbyshire oatcakes. These are easily found within its generous selection of independent cafes and bakeries. Chatsworth House which once homed the Cavendish family and is a famous cast member of Downton Abbey can be found 19 minutes to the east.

4. Eyam

Located just to the North of Bakewell is the small yet mighty village of Eyam also known as the ‘plague village’. Eyam has recognition as a significant place in English history as it was the first to obliterate the presence of the plague all thanks to total isolation. It is now a lovely escape from the tourist crowds in Bakewell as it still offers easy access to rolling hills for walking, roads for cycling as well as one of the best surprises in the Peak District, Stella’s kitchen. This is an afro Caribbean restaurant, which has appeared on a number of culinary television shows such as the Hairy Bikers.

5. Buxton

Also known as the gateway to the Peak District, tourists have been traveling from far and wide to visit the spa town of Buxton over the past three hundred years to bathe themselves in the rejuvenating thermal waters. It is also is the highest market town in all of England. From exploring the 2 million year old caves, to being pampered at the regal Georgian spa at the Royal Crescent this historic town offers a plethora of activities to enjoy.

I’m an Australian blogger based in Central West NSW who has spent the last few years exploring the four corners of the globe, living as an expat and falling in love with the world just a little bit more everyday. Here you can find my tips, guides and experiences to help inspire you for your next trip!

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