5 Night Peak District Guided Walking Holiday
An introduction to the peaceful Peak District, this guided walking holiday rewards with magnificent trails, visit-worthy historic attractions, and comfortable accommodation in Thorpe – the tiny village less than a mile from the famous Dovedale Stepping Stones. There’s plenty of sightseeing greats nearby, including the Twelve Apostles that is best viewed from the limestone promontory known as Lover’s Leap.
What you’ll love
- Discovering the best landscapes the Peak District has to offer
- Admiring open moorlands and stunning countryside
- Being close to the famous Dovedale Stepping Stones
- Spending time with like-minded people in the great outdoors
- Finding new routes and places to explore with your HF Holidays Leader
- Staying at The Peveril of the Peak, our country house in Thorpe
What’s included
- Comfortable en-suite accommodation in our country house
- Cream tea on arrival day
- Cooked or continental breakfast every morning
- Daily packed lunches
- Three-course evening meals, plus tea & coffee
- Guided walking with experienced HF Holidays Leaders
- Choice of up to three guided walks (on walking days)
- All transport to and from walks where necessary
- Easy-to-follow routes, maps, and information in our Discovery Point if you want to explore independently
Trip Notes
Easy to download as a PDF, our trip notes provide detailed information for every holiday. Please click below to find the trip notes for your departure date.
All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take alternative routes or adapt the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.
You're welcome to check in from 4pm onwards. Enjoy a complimentary cream tea on arrival.
Option 1 - Okeover Park and Mappleton
Distance: 6½ miles (10.5km)
Ascent: 850 feet (260m)
In summary: From the country house we drop onto the Dove Valley crossing historic Coldwall Bridge and ascend Marten Hill. We return through lovely Okeover Park to Mappleton walking along the Dove with fine views of Thorpe Cloud.
Highlight: Check out the unusual church in Mappleton.
Option 2 - The Mayfields
Distance: 10 miles (16km)
Ascent: 1,250 feet (380m)
In summary: Initially following the route of option 1, we then continue south on The Limestone Way reaching the cluster of Mayfield villages. Descending through Upper Mayfield to cross Hanging Bridge and return via Mappleton and the River Dove.
Highlight: Hanging Bridge with its grim history including Bonnie Prince Charlie’s retreat in 1745.
Option 3 - The Mayfields and Mappleton
Distance: 12½ miles (20km)
Ascent: 1,350 feet (420m)
In summary: Heading out along the route of option 2, we extend our walk continuing south along the Limestone Way before descending to the historical villages of Middle Mayfield and Church Mayfield. Our return route takes us via Hanging Bridge and Mappleton.
Highlight: Hanging Bridge with its grim history including Bonnie Prince Charlie's retreat in 1745.
Option 1 - Tissington Village and Trail
Distance: 7½ miles (12km)
Ascent: 800 feet (240m)
In summary: We walk to the feudal village of Tissington on grassland and along the tree lined avenue. After exploring the village we make our way onto the Tissington Trail to the former Alsop en le Dale station before returning to the country house.
Highlight: The charming estate village of Tissington, home of the FitzHerbert family for over 500 years.
Option 2 - Tissington and Alsop en le Dale
Distance: 10½ miles (17km)
Ascent: 1,200 feet (380m)
In summary: After visiting beautiful Tissington village our walk descends to Parwich and then ascends to reach the Tissington trail which we follow to Alsop en le Dale station before heading back to the country house.
Highlight: The famous Tissington Trail follows the route of the former London and North Western railway.
Option 3 - Tissington, Parwich and Milldale
Distance: 12½ miles (20km)
Ascent: 1,550 feet (480m)
In summary: We begin following the route of option 2 to the Tissington Trail, taking in the estate village of Tissington. We then descend to the River Dove which we follow through a quiet dale to reach Milldale. From here the walk ascends to meet a farm track which we follow back to the house.
Highlight: Quaint Tissington village and all its history is not to be missed.
Option 1 - Carsington Water Circular
Distance: 7½ miles (12.5km)
Ascent: 700 feet (220m)
In summary: Starting at the Visitor Centre we will complete a circuit of Carsington Reservoir, induding walking over the dam. Carsington reservoir is the 9th largest in England.
Highlight: Carsington Water is home to an abundance of birdlife. Stop at the bird hide to look out for Oystercatchers, Redshank, Terns and Geese.
Option 2 - Middleton Top, Harboro Rocks to Carsington
Distance: 7½ miles (12.5km)
Total ascent: 900 feet (280m)
In summary: Starting from Middleton Top, we follow the High Peak trail, arriving at Harboro rocks, with its caves and stone seat. After time exploring the rocks, we continue past the windmills before reaching the reservoir.
Highlight: Exploring the rocky outcrops of Harboro.
Option 3 - Black Rock to Carsington
Distance: 9 miles (14.5km)
Total ascent: 1,200 feet (360m)
In summary: Starting at Black Rocks, this walk then ascends to reach the High Peak Trail. There will be time to explore the National Stone Centre and Middleton Top and then we’ll be following the easier walk over Harboro Rocks before reaching the reservoir.
Highlight: Exploring the contrasting Black and Harboro Rocks.
Option 1 - Blore and Ilam Circuit
Distance: 6 miles (9 Km)
Ascent and descent: 935ft (285m)
In summary: The walk descends to cross the River Dove into Staffordshire on an historic bridge before ascending to the hamlet of Blore. We then visit Ilam with it’s Park, Hall and village before crossing back into Derbyshire and back to Peveril of the Peak.
Highlight: Blore and Ilam churches both have interesting memorials. In beautiful Ilam Park we can see the River Manifold as it emerges from its underground route.
Option 2 - Blore, Ilam and Musden
Distance: 9½ miles (15km)
Ascent: 1,350 feet (420m)
In summary: We head out on the Limestone Way from Thorpe, crossing the River Dove at Coldwall Bridge and ascend to Blore. The route then continues to ascend west with magnificent views of surrounding countryside to reach Calton. We then descend through Musden Wood to Rushley Bridge before taking the riverside path through the grounds of Ilam Hall and the village of Ilam.
Highlight: Ilam village with its grand hall, pseudo alpine cottages and memorial cross.
Option 3 - Ilam and the Manifold Valley
Distance: 12½ miles (20km)
Ascent: 1,900 feet (600m)
In summary: Beginning along the Limestone Way to Blore, we then continue to ascend, skirting the hill of Musden Low, before reaching the village of Calton. From here, the path continues north with wonderful views all around. We descend Soles Hollow to reach the River Hamps and the Manifold Way. From the confluence of the Hamps and the Manifold, the walk ascends back to the Manifold Trail to Throwley Hall. We then return through historic Ilam.
Highlight: Enjoy the panorama from Blore church over the limestone plateau and Dove Dale, with the shapely peak of Thorpe Cloud guarding the entrance.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home.
The Peveril of the Peak
For those easily seduced by the charm of the Peak District, this characterful country house is a dealbreaker. Set in the tiny village of Thorpe, you’ll be less than a mile from the famous Dovedale Stepping Stones – a series of 16 limestone-capped stones that were laid out in the 19th century to allow for a safe crossing over the River Dove. There’s plenty of big-name attractions nearby, most fabulously the Twelve Apostles that is best viewed from the limestone promontory known as Lover’s Leap. And there’s no shortage of walking thrills, either, especially around the Roaches and the impressive Stanage Edge. Equally fabulous is the cone-shaped Thorpe Cloud, a limestone hill on the southern end of Dovedale and along the rolling green hills of the Staffordshire/Derbyshire border.
Rooms
Designed with your comfort in mind, The Peveril of the Peak has 46 well-appointed guest rooms available in three categories: Classic, Premium, and Superior.
Classic Rooms are comfortable en-suite guest rooms, ideal for a peaceful night's sleep. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, and shower gel), and a TV.
Premium Rooms are more spacious en-suite guest rooms*. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, body lotion, shower gel), and a 32-inch TV. Extras include bathrobes, slippers, and comfortable mattresses.
Superior Rooms are even more spacious en-suite guest rooms offering upgraded views of the surroundings*. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, body lotion, shower gel), and a 32-inch TV. Extras include bathrobes, slippers, and comfortable mattresses.
We love: Room 2 on the ground floor for its extra space (it also has a door opening on to the grounds). Also lovely is the Chatsworth Room for its four-poster bed.
The Choose Your Room service is available at our UK country houses, allowing you the option of choosing and confirming a specific room for an extra charge of £30 per room. This is subject to availability. Upgrade supplements apply.
Check in & check out
You are welcome to check in from 4:00pm at the earliest. On arrival, you’ll enjoy a complimentary cream tea and get to meet your fellow guests, our HF Holidays Leaders, and the rest of the friendly team.
On the day of departure, we kindly ask all guests to check out by 10:00am. You’ll be asked to settle your bill prior to leaving. You may, of course, make a charitable donation to our HF Holidays Pathways Fund if you wish. Please note that we only accept card payments.
Room supplements
| Superior | Premium single | Premium double/twin | Choose your room |
| £25 pppn | £20 pppn | £20 pppn | £30 per room |
*Views and layout reflect each properties unique character and location
About your stay
A warm welcome
We want you to feel comfortable from the moment you arrive. You’ll find a welcome pack in your room with guest registration forms, menus, order forms for dinners and picnic lunches, the Wi-Fi password, and the front door code. Our houses are locked at night, so we recommend noting the Duty Manager’s number on arrival in case of an emergency (or getting locked out).
Evening entertainment
While evening entertainment varies from house to house, the HF Holidays Big Pub Quiz held after dinner on Wednesdays is a weekly staple. Your HF Holidays Leader may be around for tips on guided and self-guided walking routes as well as visit-worthy local attractions.
Walks talks
Our HF Holidays Leaders host guided walking information briefings before dinner on arrival days. This is followed by a group Walks Talk for information on the following day’s walking delights (held before dinner every evening). Self-guided walking guests are, of course, welcome.
The walking day
Prior to setting off on walks, your HF Holidays Leader will run you through a short safety briefing. There’s also an up-to-date weather forecast on display at the house to ensure you have appropriate clothing and footwear. If you choose to do your own walks or are on a self-guided walking holiday, we ask that you please complete an Independent Walker Card each day. These can be found near the Discovery Point in the house.
Food & drink
Led by experienced chefs, we serve a wide range of dishes made with fresh and seasonal ingredients. We always aim to source the best produce available and use home-grown herbs and vegetables from our own gardens whenever possible. Additionally, we have a licensed bar with beers, soft drinks, and a superb selection of spirits. Full-board comes as standard and includes a cream tea on arrival and a hearty breakfast on departure day.
HF Holidays understands the importance of managing allergens effectively to ensure food is safe for guests with food allergies. Whilst we are always able to confidently inform guests which allergens are present in our ingredients and dishes, we are unable to guarantee absolute freedom from the 14 main allergens in our kitchens. Vegetarian and vegan menu choices are available. If you have allergies, food intolerances, or any special dietary requirements, please inform our reservation team at the time of booking.
Accessibility
For accessibility and assistance information, please contact our expert team on 020 3974 8865 or view the accessibility information online for The Peveril of the Peak
Getting to The Peveril of the Peak
Find out more about this location including travel details and room types.
More InformationAddress
The Peveril of the Peak
Thorpe
Dovedale
Ashbourne
Derbyshire DE6 2AW
Tel: +44 (0)1335 350396
By train
The nearest stations are Derby or Buxton.
Check National Rail for train times and routes.
By taxi
From Buxton railway station a taxi takes approximately 35 minutes.
From Derby railway station the 18-mile journey takes approximately 40 minutes.
For pricing, please contact Ashbourne Taxis directly.
Ashbourne Taxis
You can pre-book a taxi from our recommended company, Ashbourne Taxis*. We recommend booking your taxi at least seven days in advance by contacting:
Tel: +44 (0)1335 345198 / +44 (0)7398 783706
Email: ashbourne-taxis@hotmail.co.uk
A return journey can be arranged on your behalf by the HF Holidays House Manager at The Peveril of the Peak.
*Ashbourne Taxis is not owned or managed by HF Holidays.
By bus
There is a bus service as far as Ashbourne, about three miles from The Peveril of the Peak. You’ll need to take a taxi from Ashbourne, taking around 10 minutes, or use the Derbyshire Connect Service (telephone +44 (0)1335 342951).
From Buxton you can use the 442 service or from Derby catch the SWI service.
Check online for up-to-date bus times.
By car
From the south
Leave the M1 at junction 24 and head to Ashbourne via the A50 and A515. Continue north on the A515 towards Buxton. One mile north of Ashbourne turn left, signposted to Thorpe, Dovedale, and Ilam. After a further two miles the road bends sharply left by the Old Dog pub. The Peveril of the Peak is at the bottom of the hill.
From Buxton
Take the A515 south towards Ashbourne. After 17 miles turn right at the crossroads following signs to Thorpe. After one mile turn right by the Old Dog pub. You’ll find The Peveril of the Peak at the bottom of the hill.
From the west
Leave the M6 at junction 15 and head via the A50, Cheadle (A521), and Oakamoor (A5417) to the A52. At the junction of the A52 and the A523 take the minor road signposted to Ilam. After 1.5 miles turn left and descend the hill. Cross the bridge at Ilam, turn right, and follow the road through Dovedale and Thorpe village. The Peveril of the Peak is on the left-hand side at the end of the village.
By air
The nearest airport is East Midlands Airport.
We recommend pre-booking a taxi direct to The Peveril of the Peak, which is about 30 minutes away.
From London Luton Airport you’ll need to take the shuttle bus to Luton Airport Parkway station, then catch the train to Derby with one change at Leicester.
From Manchester International Airport there are trains every hour to Buxton with one change at Manchester Piccadilly. Allow one hour 40 minutes to Buxton.
Flying to London Heathrow Airport is another option but you’ll need to allow three hours to reach Derby. From Heathrow first take the Piccadilly line to London St Pancras. From here take a train direct to Derby.
National Rail has up-to-date train information.
The UK has a famously unpredictable climate so it's best to be prepared for weather that’s sunny one minute and raining the next. To make it easier, here’s a list of items you should consider packing.
Essentials
- Suitable footwear such as waterproof walking boots that provide ankle support and good grip
- Waterproof and windproof jacket
- Comfortable clothing (jeans & waterproof capes are not suitable)
- Mid-layer(s) to keep you warm. Fleeces make a good choice
- Waterproof overtrousers
- Gloves and a warm hat
- Rucksack with waterproof liner
- Flask for hot drinks
- Water bottle (at least 1 litre capacity)
- Sunscreen
- UV sunglasses
Recommended
- Several base layers (long-sleeve or short-sleeve)
- Cushioned walking socks to avoid blisters
- First aid kit, including plasters and insect repellent
- Sit mat
- Waterproof pouch for valuables
- Rubbish bag (remember to always leave no trace)
- Wallet/purse
- Camera
- First-aid kit
The Peveril of the Peak Calendar
- Guided Walking
- Self-Guided Walking
- Special Interests
- Unavailable to Book
Guest reviews
All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.
Non-member fee: £30 per person.
All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take an alternative route, or vary the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.
Holiday prices
| Date (Start - End) | Itinerary | Double / Twin Room | Single Room | Notes / Offers | Trip Notes | Book | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | ||||||||
|
09 Mar - 14 Mar 2025 5 nights |
Version 1 Single from £729 £669 Double from £729 £669 pp |
from £729 £669 pp |
from £729 £669 |
Save £60 Per Person |
Trip Notes
|
Book Now | ||
