The Peak District National Park in Derbyshire offers breathtaking views across its vast 300,000-acre expanse, which can be daunting to navigate due to its steep terrain. To truly appreciate the peaks and their beauty, consider starting your exploration from the highest market town in England, Buxton.
Staying at The Buxton Crescent Hotel provides convenient access to a variety of scenic trails right at your doorstep. With numerous biking routes available, I opted to explore the area on two wheels with the help of PeakePedals, cycling out into the stunning landscapes of Derbyshire.
Derbyshire is renowned for its striking Peak District scenery, charming market towns, and grand country estates, making it an ideal destination for a tranquil getaway. Sykes Cottages offers a range of accommodations starting at £32 per night for those looking to experience the region’s beauty firsthand.
For visitors staying at The Buxton Crescent Hotel and arriving at Buxton Station, White Peak Adventure offers a specially curated cycling route by PeakePedals to showcase the picturesque villages, valleys, and hills of the White Peak region just south of Buxton. Guests can opt to rent e-bikes and Garmin GPX navigation devices preloaded with their chosen route for a hassle-free exploration experience.
During our biking tour led by local expert Dan, we covered over 20 miles around the national park, meandering through quaint villages and scenic country roads. Cycling allowed us to maximize our time and enjoy the breathtaking views without the fatigue of a long hike.
One of the standout moments was passing through the mesmerizing ‘Dragon’s Back’ limestone reef, offering a unique perspective on the Peaks from below. Our guide, Dan, provided insightful recommendations for pit stops in charming English villages like Longnor and Hartington, where we indulged in local treats like the famous Bakewell Tart.
Although the weather turned cold and foggy later in the day, our biking adventure was a delightful way to explore the Peaks efficiently. For a more leisurely experience near Buxton, consider a short hike to Lud’s Church, a hidden paradise less than a 20-minute drive from town with easy terrain and captivating natural beauty.
Starting at The Roaches Gradbach Car Park, the hike took us through forests and past a serene gorge illuminated by lush green moss, evoking a sense of discovery akin to stepping into a hidden wonderland. The circular route typically takes two hours, but we completed it in an hour and a half, eager to enjoy a well-deserved lunch.
For a luxurious stay in Buxton, consider booking a room at Champneys Buxton Crescent Hotel & Wellness Spa, with rates starting from £185 inclusive of bed and breakfast. To explore the area further, visit Peake Pedals for bike rentals and private tours.
