Peak District Itinerary
The Peak District Road Trip is a 95mi journey through the English countryside, starting in Chesterfield and ending in Manchester. This trip is best taken over two days, as it allows you to take in all the sights and attractions along the way. The recommended time of year to take this trip is in the summer, when the landscapes are at their most beautiful. The roads are generally in good condition, although some sections are curvy and narrow.
Starting in Chesterfield, the first stop on the route is Bakewell, home to the famous Bakewell Pudding. Next, you will pass through Buxton, known for its thermal spa, before traveling to Castleton, with its stunning views and famous show caves. The final stop on the route is Bamford, a traditional village set in the heart of the Peak District National Park.
The Peak District Road Trip is a great experience for any driver, and will provide you with lasting memories. However, it is important to note that this trip is best suited to those with a higher budget.
2
number of days
152 km
route length
high
budget
family
good for
on the left
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Chesterfield
Distance 152 km
Driving time 3.4 h
Pace: slow
35.0 kWh
Airports
DSA
,
EMA
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Chesterfield is a charming town located in Derbyshire, England. It is the perfect starting point for the Peak District Road Trip. Located in the north of England, the town offers beautiful views of the Peak District National Park. Visitors can explore the ruins of the 12th century Chesterfield Castle, take a stroll through the historic market square, and visit the Chesterfield Museum and Art Gallery. The town also boasts some of the best shopping experiences in the region, with plenty of independent stores and boutiques.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport to Chesterfield is Manchester Airport (MAN). From here, car rental services are available for those wanting to start their road trip. The Peak District Road Trip will take you through some of the most stunning natural scenery in England, with plenty of opportunities to explore hidden gems, such as ancient castles and tranquil villages. Along the way, you can also explore some of the most popular tourist attractions, such as Chatsworth House, the Heights of Abraham, and Hardwick Hall. Chesterfield is the perfect starting point for your Peak District Road Trip.
1
Chesterfield
- Bakewell
Distance 32 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: modest
8.2 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Chesterfield to Bakewell, a journey of just 20 miles that will take you less than an hour. Along the way, you'll experience the beauty of Curbar and Chatsworth, two of England's most picturesque regions. Curbar is a charming village surrounded by rolling hills, while Chatsworth offers stunning views of the River Derwent and the Chatsworth Estate. As you drive, be sure to keep an eye out for historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and scenic roads. In some sections, the road will be narrow, so be sure to drive with caution. This is just one stage of a larger tour, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route can be found in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Bakewell - England - Europe - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
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2
Bakewell
- Buxton
Distance 26 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: slow
5.9 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a 16mi journey through the enchanting Derbyshire countryside, starting in Bakewell and ending in Buxton. Along the way, you will pass through the picturesque villages of Cressbrook and Tideswell. The winding roads will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the area, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the views. In Cressbrook, you can visit the 19th-century mill, where you can learn about the history of the area and take in the stunning views of the River Wye. In Tideswell, you can explore the ancient St. John the Baptist Church and the many historical sites in the area. The drive will take you less than an hour, so you can make the most of your time. Keep your eyes open for the picturesque landscapes, scenic roads, and historical sites that you will encounter along the way. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Buxton - England - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
Buxton - England - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
Buxton - England - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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3
Buxton
- Castleton
Distance 28 km
Driving time 0.6 h
Pace: modest
7.4 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an 18mi road trip from Buxton, England, to Castleton. Along the way, you'll pass through the quaint village of Buxworth, where you can find some of the best views of the Peak District. With its narrow roads, this route is ideal for those who want to take in the scenery at a leisurely pace. As you drive, be sure to keep an eye out for the many scenic spots along the way. In Castleton, you can explore the charming cobbled streets and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Be sure to check out the ruins of Peveril Castle, the oldest medieval fort in the area. With its picturesque setting, this is one of the most picturesque places to visit in the region. With its charming atmosphere and breathtaking views, this road trip is sure to be an unforgettable experience. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage.
Castleton - England - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
Castleton - England - Europe - Scenic Drive - Vikipedija
Castleton - England - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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4
Castleton
- Bamford
Distance 20 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: slow
4.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip starting in Castleton, England, and taking you through two of the most scenic and picturesque places in the Peak District - Edale and Hope Valley. This 13mi journey will take you less than one hour, and you'll be treated to winding roads, narrow sections, and breathtaking views. As you drive, take a moment to admire the rolling hills, the lush greenery, and the majestic mountains.
When you reach Edale, be sure to stop and explore the village, which is nestled in the valley of the River Noe. Take a stroll through the Edale Valley and admire the stunning views of Mam Tor and Lose Hill, or take a hike up to the top of Kinder Scout.
Your next stop is Hope Valley, which is known for its stunning landscapes and abundance of outdoor activities. Here, you can go fishing, horseback riding, and cycling, or explore the many walking trails.
Finally, your journey ends in Bamford, a charming village surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Take a stroll along the banks of the River Derwent, or explore the many shops, pubs, and restaurants.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Bamford - England - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
Bamford - England - Europe - Scenic Drive - Flickr
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5
Bamford
- Manchester
Distance 46 km
Driving time 1.0 h
Pace: modest
11.9 kWh
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Itinerary
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Start your journey in Bamford, England, a small village located in the Peak District National Park. From here, you'll travel 29 miles to Glossop, a charming town with plenty of interesting places to visit. The journey will take you fewer than 1 hour. Along the way, you'll have the chance to explore the beautiful countryside, with its rolling hills and lush green fields. Once you arrive in Glossop, be sure to check out the historic Market Hall, the old Town Hall, and the Glossop Heritage Centre. You'll also find plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants to enjoy.
Finally, you'll reach Manchester, the bustling city that's home to a variety of attractions. Spend some time exploring the iconic Manchester Cathedral and the stunning Manchester Art Gallery. You'll also find plenty of shops and restaurants to explore. For a unique experience, take a stroll through the colourful Chinatown district.
This is just one of the many stages of your road trip, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
Manchester - England - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikipedia
Manchester - England - Europe - Scenic Drive - Flickr
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Manchester
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Manchester is the perfect ending point to the Peak District Road Trip. Located in the northwest of England, Manchester is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, renowned for its music scene, football clubs and proud industrial legacy.
The city is home to iconic historic sites like the Town Hall and the Imperial War Museum North, as well as the stunning Manchester Cathedral and the Museum of Science and Industry. For those looking for a more modern experience, the city’s buzzing nightlife and modern attractions, such as the Manchester Art Gallery, the Lowry Center and the Manchester Aquatics Centre, offer plenty of fun and excitement.
For those travelling by car, Manchester is easily accessible from the Peak District. The M62 motorway runs from the district directly into the city centre and there is plenty of parking available in the city centre. If you’re travelling by air, Manchester International Airport (MAN) is the closest international airport and offers a wide range of international and domestic flights.
No matter how you’re travelling, Manchester is the perfect way to end your Peak District Road Trip. From awe-inspiring historic sites to modern attractions and buzzing nightlife, Manchester has something for everyone. So why not make Manchester the final destination of your road trip?
Manchester - England - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikipedia
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Peak District at a glance
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Start:
Chesterfield
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End:
Manchester
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Distance:
152 km
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Stay:
2 days
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Getting there:
Robin Hood Doncaster Sheffield Airport (DSA),
East Midlands Airport (EMA)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on a picturesque 95-mile journey through the quintessential English countryside with the Peak District Road Trip. Stretching from the historic market town of Chesterfield to the vibrant city of Manchester, this scenic route traverses rolling hills, charming villages, and captivating landscapes of the Peak District National Park. To immerse yourself in the region's beauty and explore its myriad attractions, allocate at least two days for this enchanting adventure.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Chesterfield: Known for the distinctive crooked spire of St. Mary and All Saints Church, Chesterfield is the perfect starting point for your journey. Explore the town's cobbled streets and historic market.
- Bakewell: A culinary hotspot, Bakewell is the birthplace of the delectable Bakewell Tart, a variant of the traditional Bakewell Pudding. Be sure to indulge in this sweet treat while visiting.
- Buxton: Revered for its Georgian and Victorian architecture, Buxton boasts the Buxton Opera House and Pavilion Gardens. Don't miss the chance to soak in the Buxton Thermal Baths, tapping into the geothermal springs that have attracted visitors since Roman times.
- Castleton: Nestled in the Hope Valley, Castleton is surrounded by dramatic landscapes, including Mam Tor and the Great Ridge. It's also the gateway to several show caves, such as Peak Cavern and Speedwell Cavern, where mining history and natural wonders await.
- Bamford: This picturesque village offers tranquil escapes and is a stone's throw from the iconic Ladybower Reservoir, known for its WWII history and the partially submerged village of Derwent.
Best Time to Go:
Experience the Peak District Road Trip in all its glory during summer when the moorlands bloom with heather and the weather is more conducive to outdoor exploration. However, spring and autumn also offer unique charms with fewer crowds and beautiful foliage.
Potential Risks:
Navigating the winding, narrow Roads of the Peak District requires attentiveness and skill, especially on stretches like the famous Snake Pass. Sudden weather changes are common, so pack accordingly and stay informed about local forecasts.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Budget: While suitable for various budgets, some activities and accommodations can be on the higher end.
- Vehicle: A reliable vehicle is a must, preferably with good handling for rural Roads.
- Accommodation: From cozy B to luxury hotels, book in advance, especially during peak season.
- Activities: Embrace the great outdoors with hiking, rock climbing, caving, and cycling, or delve into history with visits to stately homes and ancient monuments.
A good choice for:
The Peak District Road Trip is a blend of gastronomy, tranquility, and thrill-seeking set against a backdrop of awe-inspiring scenery. It's a testament to England's rich natural and cultural heritage, promising an unforgettable journey for those who plan thoughtfully and embrace the call of adventure.
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