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  • 7 Night Central Peak District Gentle Guided Walking Holiday

7 Night Central Peak District Gentle Guided Walking Holiday

Lee Wood Hotel
New holidays

■ 7 nights at an HF Country House

■ Availability Apr-Oct 2027

■ One itinerary available

■ Full Board

■ Grades 1 & 2 details

Non-members From

£1,189

pp

Members From

£1,159

pp

Members Save: on this booking and get a whole range of extra exclusive benefits. You can become a member during the booking flow. details

For group booking of 10 or more please click here
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Ideal for those wanting to discover the Peak District at a more relaxed pace, this gentle guided walking holiday rewards with magnificent trails, big-name historic attractions, and comfortable accommodation in Buxton – the thermal spa town nestled in the centre of the Peak District. You’ll also enjoy a choice of up to three different-grade daily walks, including a gentle walk of three to four miles.

Accommodation

HF Country House
A New HF Country House for 2027 Lee Wood is our 43-bedroom Georgian property in the historic spa town of Buxton, opening 29 January 2027 with a special celebratory launch week. Not only does our newest country house have excellent rail connections, with Buxton station only a short walk away, it also has easy access to a wonderful variety of Peak District walking routes. Surrounded by the Peak District National Park, our Buxton base offers a wealth of walks across the dramatic gritstone edges of the Dark Peak, through the gentle valleys of the White Peak, and routes that delve into the region’s industrial past, history, and heritage.  Other nearby highlights include the Derbyshire Dales and the Hope Valley, home to picturesque villages such as Hathersage, Eyam, and Castleton, which is famed for its show caves and is crowned by the dramatic ruins of the 11th-century Peveril Castle.  When you’re not out walking, unwind in the well-kept gardens, or enjoy plenty of space for socialising and activities in the roomy bar and lounge areas.   If you want to take it easy or fill a free day, Lee Wood’s excellent location puts you steps from Buxton’s many highlights. Visit Buxton Opera House to catch a show in an authentic Edwardian theatre, stop by the iconic, Grade I-listed Buxton Crescent building and browse its fascinating museum, or simply stroll through the landscaped parklands of the Pavilion Gardens, which first opened in 1871. Alternatively, take a 25-minute walk to Poole’s Cavern, a two-million-year-old natural limestone cave and Site of Special Scientific Interest.
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Walking grades and options

This trip is graded Activity Level 1 and 2.

This easier variation of our best-selling Guided Walking holidays is the perfect way to enjoy a gentle exploration of the Peak District. The choice of up to three guided walks including a walk of 4 miles.

What You’ll Love

  • Discovering the best landscapes the Peak District has to offer
  • Admiring open moorlands and stunning countryside
  • 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 Lee Wood Hotel, our country house in Buxton

What's Included

  • 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 three guided walks (each walking day) from March to October, and two from November to February
  • 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

Reviews

Gallery

Itinerary

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.

Itinerary

Check-in at the hotel is available from 16:00. If you are a member you can arrive at the house from 14:00. Enjoy a complimentary cream tea at 16:30 and meet other guests.

Option 1 - Three Shires Head and Axe Edge Moor trig point

Distance: 8 miles (12.5km)

Ascent: 1,050 feet (320m)

Descent: 1,400 feet (440m)

In Summary: Following a short coach journey to the hills to the SW of Buxton, we follow the River Dane to the popular beauty spot known as Three Shires Head where Cheshire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire meet. From there we gradually climb to a very contrasting landscape, that of Axe Edge Moor, a very peaceful and large peat moorland. We reach the trig point marking the highest point of the moor. We complete our journey along the old disused road to Macclesfield and then through some local woods and alley ways back to the Lee Wood Hotel.

Highlights: Pretty waterfalls at Three Shire Head. Extensive peat moorland of Axe Edge Moor with spectacular and far reaching views across three counties. Axe Edge Moor trig point. Cheeks Hill– the highest and most northerly point in Staffordshire. Curlews and lapwings in the Springtime.

Option 2 - Three Shires Head and Axe Edge Moor

Distance: 6.5 miles (10.5km)

Ascent: 800 feet (240m)

Descent: 1,250 feet (380m)

In Summary: Following a short coach journey to the hills to the south west of Buxton, we follow the River Dane to the popular beauty spot known as Three Shires Head where Cheshire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire meet. From there we gradually climb to a very contrasting landscape, that of Axe Edge Moor, a very peaceful and large peat moorland. We complete our journey along the old disused road to Macclesfield and then through some local woods and alley ways back to the Lee Wood Hotel.

Highlight: Pretty waterfalls at Three Shire Head. Extensive peat moorland of Axe Edge Moor with spectacular and far reaching views across three counties. Cheeks Hill– the highest and most northerly point in Staffordshire. Curlews and lapwings in the Springtime.

Option 3 - Buxton Highlights

Distance: 4 miles (7km)

Ascent: 400 feet (120m)

Descent: 650 feet (200m)

In Summary: Starting in Grinlow Country Park, we make our way gently up to one of Buxton’s historic landmarks, Solomon’s Temple. From there we meander down through grasslands and woods to Poole’s Cavern and visitor centre. We make our way back to the house through Pavilion Gardens, Serpentine Gardens and Gadley woods.

Highlight: Grinlow country park with its limestone quarrying heritage, Solomon’s Temple, Poole’s cavern and visitor centre, and Pavilion Gardens including its charming Crystal Palace-esque buildings and conservatory.

Option 1 - Crowdecote, Pilsbury Castle to Hartington

Distance: 4 miles (6km)

Ascent: 400 feet (120m)

Descent: 500 feet (160m)

In Summary: This walk starts at the village of Crowdecote, north of Hartington, and on the border of Derbyshire and Staffordshire. There are lovely views of hills either side of the valley as the walk descends towards Hartington along the valley of the River Dove. The walk includes a short ascent to the site medieval Pilsbury Castle and finally joining a small lane to continue down the valley to reach Hartington, with its famous cheese shop.

Highlight: Exploring Pilsbury castle, site of a Normon motte and bailey castle

Option 2 - Glutton Bridge to Hartington

Distance: 5 miles (8.5km)

Ascent: 450 feet (140m)

Descent: 550 feet (160m)

In Summary: This walk commences further up the valley of the River Dove at Glutton Bridge, (the name originates from Middle English ‘gluton’ and indeed has the same meaning as today’s word!)  There are great views of surrounding hills, Parkhouse, Chrome Hill and Hitter Hill. The route takes a track then a field path to reach the village of Crowdecote, where the walk replicates the Option 1 walk to reach Hartington.

Highlight: Exploring Pilsbury castle, site of a Normon motte and bailey castle

Option 3 - Hollinsclough to Hartington

Distance: 6.5 miles (10.5km)

Ascent: 500 feet (140m)

Descent: 700 feet (220m)

In Summary: This walk starts in the village of Hollinsclough at the head of the Dove Valley, (originally ‘Howel’s Ravine’) and near the junction of 3 counties, Staffordshire, Derbyshire and Cheshire. In the 18th century, the village was linked to the silk weaving industry, and silk was transported to Macclesfield on a packhorse route. There are dramatic views of surrounding landscape as the walk proceeds past the ‘Dragon’s Back’ made up of 2 jagged limestone hills, Parkhouse and Chrome Hill. The walk arrives at Glutton Bridge and follows the Option 2 route to Hartington.

Highlight: Exploring Pilsbury castle, site of a Normon motte and bailey castle

Discover more about the Lee Wood Hotel and the local area for ideas on how to make the most of your free day.

Option 1 - Curbar Gap to Calton Lees

Distance:  5.5 miles (9km)

Ascent: 300 feet (100m)

Descent: 950 feet (280m)

In Summary: This starts high on the Edges. The walk goes along Baslow Edge giving far reaching views and passing the Eagle Stone and Wellington monument before descending into Baslow and following the same route as Opt 1 through Chatsworth Park and Edensor.

Highlight: Walking through the grounds of the impressive Chatworth House

Option 2 - Baslow to Calton Lees

Distance: 3.5 miles (5.5km)

Ascent: 300 feet (100m)

Descent: 250 feet (80m)

In Summary: The walk starts in the estate village of Baslow and then enters Chatsworth Park initially following the river and then on towards the house. There will be time for a break with cafes and some shops in the magnificent stables. The walk then passes through the "model" village of Edensor (pronounced Ensor) where recent graves of the Cavendish family are found in the churchyard. It's then a fairly level walk along the river to the Garden Centre.

Highlight: Walking through the grounds of the impressive Chatworth House

Option 3 - Curbar Gap to Calton Lees passing the Russian Cottage

Distance: 6.5 miles (10.5km)

Ascent: 600 feet (180m)

Descent: 1,200 feet (380m)

In Summary: As with option 2 this walk starts along Baslow Edge and through Chatsworth park with time for a break.  After visiting the village of Edensor the walk then ascends giving excellent views back over Chatsworth House and Gardens.  After passing the "Russian Cottage" (a replica Dacha) the walk descends on a track to the Garden Centre.

Highlight: Views of the Peak District from Baslow Edge

Option 1 - Blore to Ilam via Rushley

Distance: 5 miles (8km)

Ascent: 650 feet (200m)

Descent: 750 feet (240m)

In Summary: After a short coach ride the walk starts in the hamlet of Blore, there is a short road walk before following a track giving far reaching views over the Manifold valley and beyond. After descending through a farm, the walk follows the riverbed into Ilam Park. There will be time to view the village and its famous cross.

Highlight: Ilam village with its grand hall, pseudo alpine cottages and memorial cross.

Option 2 - Blore to Ilam

Distance: 3 miles (4.5km)

Ascent: 250 feet (80m)

Descent: 450 feet (140m)

In Summary: After a short coach ride the walk starts in the hamlet of Blore, with time to view its church and Hall (both from outside). The walk then descends to the river and Ilam Park.  There will be an opportunity to view the village, the Boil Holes and the interesting church plus time for a cuppa.

Highlight: Exploring Ilam Park

Option 3 - Dovedale, Blore and Rushley

Distance:  6.5 miles (10.5km)

Ascent: 950 feet (280m)

Descent: 1,050 feet (320m)

In Summary: Starting in Dovedale we walk on the Limestone Way to reach the hamlet of Blore. The walk then follows Option 2 to enter Ilam Park. Time to see the Boil Holes, church and village and to have a cuppa.

Highlight: Ilam village with its grand hall, pseudo alpine cottages and memorial cross.

Option 1 - Along the Canal to Cromford

Distance: 3.5 miles (5.5km) 

Ascent & Descent: Minimal

In Summary: This walk starts by the village of Whatstandwell, where the charming towpath of the Cromford canal follows the river Derwent.  Built in the late 18th Century to link with the Erewash canal and then the River Trent, a tunnel collapse in the early twentieth century has left our section as a 5 mile long haven for nature. This is home to a wide range of wildflowers, insects, birds and even rare water voles. At High Peak Junction we pass a small workshop claimed to be the oldest railway workshop in the world. As the walk ends at Cromford wharf we can enjoy a cuppa and visit the world’s first water powered cotton mill.

Highlight: The Derwent Valley was one of birthplaces of the Industrial Revolution, for it was here that Richard Arkwright set up his pioneering cotton mill. Its importance is now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Option 2 - Middleton Top to Cromford

Distance: 4.5 miles (7km)

Ascent: 300 feet (80m)

Descent:  100 feet (300m)

In Summary: Middleton Top lies at the top of an incline, where once trains were hauled from below by a steaming winding engine of the former Cromford and High Peak railway. This walk descends the incline, with time to call in to the National Stone Centre. Spot the Millennium wall, many varieties of dry stone wall. The walk continues along the High Peak Trail and descends another incline to arrive at Cromford Canal, built in late 18th century. See Aqueduct cottage, former lock keeper’s dwelling, now restored by Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, before the walk takes the beautiful canal towpath and arrives at Cromford and Arkwright’s Mill.

Highlight: The Derwent Valley was one of birthplaces of the Industrial Revolution, for it was here that Richard Arkwright set up his pioneering cotton mill. Its importance is now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Option 3 - Crich Village, Cromford Canal and Cromford

Distance: 5.5 miles (9km)

Ascent: 350 feet (100m)

Descent: 800 feet (240m)

In Summary: This walk starts in the pretty village of Crich, with a history of lead mining and quarrying, and famous for it’s National Tramway Museum and a prominent memorial tower of the Sherwood Foresters Regiment. Admire the wide views here before descending, and passing through the atmospheric woodland around Duke’s Quarry, . The walk then joins the Cromford Canal and proceeds to Cromford and Arkwright’s Mill, as in Options 1 & 2.

Highlight: The Derwent Valley was one of birthplaces of the Industrial Revolution, for it was here that Richard Arkwright set up his pioneering cotton mill. Its importance is now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home.

View all

Daily Walk Options

Grade 1 Grade 2

Easier Walks

Walk at a relaxed pace, often spending time at places of interest en-route. Walking experience isn’t necessary as distances are quite short and gradients generally easy.

Accommodation

Lee Wood Hotel

A New HF Country House for 2027 Lee Wood is our 43-bedroom Georgian property in the historic spa town of Buxton, opening 29 January 2027 with a special celebratory launch week. Not only does our newest country house have excellent rail connections, with Buxton station only a short walk away, it also has easy access to a wonderful variety of Peak District walking routes. Surrounded by the Peak District National Park, our Buxton base offers a wealth of walks across the dramatic gritstone edges of the Dark Peak, through the gentle valleys of the White Peak, and routes that delve into the region’s industrial past, history, and heritage.  Other nearby highlights include the Derbyshire Dales and the Hope Valley, home to picturesque villages such as Hathersage, Eyam, and Castleton, which is famed for its show caves and is crowned by the dramatic ruins of the 11th-century Peveril Castle.  When you’re not out walking, unwind in the well-kept gardens, or enjoy plenty of space for socialising and activities in the roomy bar and lounge areas.   If you want to take it easy or fill a free day, Lee Wood’s excellent location puts you steps from Buxton’s many highlights. Visit Buxton Opera House to catch a show in an authentic Edwardian theatre, stop by the iconic, Grade I-listed Buxton Crescent building and browse its fascinating museum, or simply stroll through the landscaped parklands of the Pavilion Gardens, which first opened in 1871. Alternatively, take a 25-minute walk to Poole’s Cavern, a two-million-year-old natural limestone cave and Site of Special Scientific Interest.

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, HF Holidays Inter-House Quiz night held after dinner on Wednesdays is a weekly staple. Your HF Holidays leader may be around for tips on guided and self-guided waking routes as well as visit-worthy local attractions.

Walks talks 
Our HF Holidays walk leaders host guided walking information briefings before dinner on guided walking holiday arrival days. This is followed by a group Walks Talk for information on the following day’s guided walks (held before dinner every evening). Self-guided walking guests are, of course, welcome.  

The walking day
Prior to setting off on guided 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. 

You are welcome to check in from 4pm at the earliest. HF Members can check in earlier, from 2pm. 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. Check out 10am.

• 43 well-appointed guest rooms • Exclusive occupancy: 68 guests minimum • Check in from 4:00pm • For members check in from 2:00pm • Free Wi-Fi • Free on-site parking • Boot room and drying room • Discovery Point offering a wide range of local area maps, route guides, and information for self-guided walks • Books and games to borrow • Licensed bar • Lounges • Lawned grounds • Electric vehicle charging point - Please note, you will need to bring your own cables to use this EV charging point

 

  

Designed with your comfort in mind, Lee Wood Hotel has 43 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.

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.

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.

 

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

For accessibility and assistance information, please contact our expert team on 020 3974 8865.

Getting here

Address

The Park,
Park Rd,
Buxton
SK17 6TQ
Tel: 01298 23002

Google Maps

By train

The nearest station is Buxton, approximately 0.5 miles from the house.

Check National Rail for train times and routes.

By taxi

You may wish to call one of our local taxi companies on 01298 72123 or 01298 72333 on arrival for transport to and from the train station. 

 

By car & parking

Lee Wood Hotel can be approached either via The Park or to the rear via Manchester Road (A5004 Long Hill to Whaley Bridge). If you are using SatNav, our postcode is SK17 6TQ. Parking is available around the hotel, and there is additional unrestricted parking on The Park, to the south side of the premises. 

More Information

Walking safety

Walks may be changed for safety reasons and are subject to a maximum and minimum number of guests.

Leaders always consider the safety of the group as a whole, and may need to alter or curtail the walk if the conditions dictate. Your leader may refuse to accept a guest where clothing, equipment or behaviour is unsuitable. In the event of a problem all leaders carry a mobile phone, first aid kit, group shelter, spare maps and a compass.

Please note: If you choose to leave the group your leader is no longer responsible for you.

If you have a particular health condition or disability please put this on your guest registration form. This information will be confidential to your leaders and the house manager, but leaders do need to take account of any issues when planning walks. Please carry a copy of these trip notes with you, or note down the contact phone number for your accommodation (details in the travel section) should you need them in case of emergency.

Packing list - UK Guided Walking

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  

For holidays operating October through to the end of March, please also bring the following on your walks:

  • spare warm clothing
  • spare high energy food
  • head torch and spare batteries
  • please note for the October to March season your waterproof jacket needs to offer a high level of waterproofing and wind resistance, and a hood. Look for a waterproof jacket with sealed/taped seams and a minimum HH (hyrodstatic head - this is the rating given on waterproof jackets) of 10,000mm+

Recommended  

  • Several base layers (long-sleeve or short-sleeve)  
  • Cushioned walking socks to avoid blisters  
  • First aid kit, including plasters and insect repellent and tick remover tool
  • Sit mat   
  • Waterproof pouch for valuables  
  • Rubbish bag (remember to always leave no trace)  
  • Wallet/purse  
  • Camera
  • Walking poles

Carbon Footprint

We see it as our responsibility to minimise our emissions, not just for this year but every year to come. Our work with sustainability experts, ecollective, has enabled us to measure our carbon footprint and create a strategy to reduce the carbon intensity of our product by 5% each year. Our ambition is to be net zero by 2040 – earlier if we can.

Learn more

Reviews

Code: BUX07-BEW01

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Dates & availability

7 Night Central Peak District Gentle Guided Walking Holiday

Members save an additional £30 on this booking and get a range of other exclusive benefits. You can join during booking process. Read more about membership

2027

23 Apr - 30 Apr 2027

7 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£1,189

pp

Members

£1,159

pp
Single rooms
Book Now

11 Jun - 18 Jun 2027

7 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£1,349

pp

Members

£1,319

pp
Single rooms
Book Now

17 Sep - 24 Sep 2027

7 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£1,359

pp

Members

£1,329

pp
Single rooms

£1,429

pp

£1,399

pp
Book Now

8 Oct - 15 Oct 2027

7 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£1,189

pp

Members

£1,159

pp
Single rooms
Book Now
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We are proud to be Britain’s only walking holiday co-operative. Led by almost 40,000 members, offering hundreds of holidays across the UK and overseas, with all surplus being reinvested back into our Society.

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Flexible choice of guided walks

Experienced volunteer HF Leaders guide every walk at our UK country houses, offering up to three daily options. Making it easy to find a holiday to suit your ability, and with the flexibility to switch grades each walking day.

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Book early with confidence

Become an HF Member to benefit from our Price Pledge. Secure your first choice of holiday early, and if the cost drops after you book, we will automatically refund the difference (exc. travel agent & group bookings).

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Book with confidence

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If we cancel your holiday, we honour all refund requests 

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We know that peace of mind is priceless, so we’ll always go above and beyond to meet – and exceed – expectations

If the flights we have organised are cancelled or changed, we’ll do everything we can to find alternative transport, with minimal disruption to your holiday

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