We have improved our walking grade scale. Read more

7 Night Central Peak District Guided Walking for Solos Holiday

Lee Wood Hotel
New holiday

■ Location: Peak District

■ Duration: 6 nights at an HF Country House

■ Board Basis: Full Board

■ Travel Dates: Oct 2027

■ Itineraries available: 1

■ Choice of Walking Grades: 4 & 6 details

■ Carbon Footprint: 200kg CO2 details

Non-members From

£1,189

pp

Members From

£1,159

pp

For group booking of 10 or more please click here
Enjoy the freedom of holidaying as a solo traveller but with the bonus of friendly company throughout. Exclusively for solos, this holiday combines a great selection of guided walks in the Peak District with the opportunity to connect with your fellow guests. Together you’ll explore both the Dark and White Peaks, delving into the region’s industrial past and the striking contrasts in landscape, geology and character[L.

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

From September 2026, we have expanded our walking grade scale from 6 to 10 points. While the holidays themselves have not changed (the routes, daily distances and ascent levels remain the same), our newly expanded 1-10 scale offers greater distinction between holidays and clearer grade descriptions, so you can choose a holiday that best suits you.

Gentle walking grade 4

Gentle walking grade 4

The most active Gentle grade, with longer walks, some ascent, and possible steps, stiles, or off-path uneven ground. Typically, 6-7 miles (10-12km) with around 1,000ft (300m) of ascent.
Moderate walking grade  6

Moderate walking grade 6

Longer full day walks with more ascent and varied terrain. Good fitness and agility are needed. Typically, 9-10 miles (15-16km) with around 1,500ft (460m) of ascent.

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 up to two guided walks (on walking days)
  • All transport to and from walks where necessary
  • Dedicated Solos host
  • Welcome drinks reception 
  • Farewell dinner with drinks included
  • Easy-to-follow routes, maps, and information in our Discovery Point if you want to explore independently

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.

Solos Walking

Option 1 - Cat & Fiddle Inn to Buxton

Distance: 5 miles (8.5km) 

Total ascent: 400 feet (120m) 

In summary: This walk begins at the Cat & Fiddle, the 2nd highest pub in England. We descend to the Victorian folly of Solomon’s Temple, then onwards to Poole’s Cavern before arriving in the beautiful spa town of Buxton

Highlight: There's time to explore Buxton and enjoy the elegant and imposing buildings of this famous spa town. 

Option 2 - Goyt Valley and Buxton Pavilion

Distance: 8½ miles (13.5km) 

Ascent: 600 feet (180m) 

In summary: Starting from the former Cat and Fiddle Inn, set high on the moors, we descend to Errwood Hall and the dam between the Fernilee and Errwood Reservoirs in the Goyt Valley. From here we cross the moors to Buxton.

Highlight: Great views from the old Cat & Fiddle Inn with its lofty position high on the moors.

Option 1 - Upper Dove Valley & Pilsbury Castle

Distance: 7 miles (11.5km)

Ascent: 850 feet (260m)

In summary: From the village of Hollinsclough nestling beneath Hollins Hill close to the source of the Dove we traverse beneath the jagged outlines of the Dragon's Back to Glutton Bridge. We climb Hitter Hill to view the shapely cone of High Wheeldon with it’s prehistoric secrets, then journey south to the fascinating site of Pilsbury Castle. From there we contour the eastern flank of the upper Dove beneath Carder Low with great views of 'The Dragon', Sheen Hill and Axe Edge to finish in the splendid market town of Hartington.

Highlight: Sample the local Stilton and Dovedale cheeses at the famous Hartington cheese shop. 

Option 2 - Hollinsclough to Hartington via Hitter Hill

Distance: 9 miles (15km) 

Ascent: 1,500 feet (460m)

In summary: From the village of Hollinsclough we contour Hollins Hill in the shadow of Axe Edge (source of both the River Dove and Manifold) and Leap Edge. We swing north up Dowel Dale then ascend Hitter Hill before heading south to Pilsbury Castle. We then cross the fledgling River Dove and ascend to the ridgeline of Sheen Hill for panoramic views west over the Manifold valley before descending into Hartington. 

Highlight: Explore the site and remains of Pilsbury Castle, an 11th Century Motte and Bailey Fortress, with fantastic views back towards Chrome Hill.

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 - Crich to Cromford

Distance: 5½ miles (9km) 

Total ascent: 500 feet (160m) 

In summary: Walk from Crich village up to the monument on Crich Stand. After an undulating walk through the Derbyshire countryside we'll follow the Cromford Canal towpath, to Cromford Wharf 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 2 - The Derwent Valley and Cromford

Distance: 9½ miles (15km) 

Ascent: 900 feet (280m) 

In summary: Soak up the views from Crich Stand, then walk over the green hills above the Derwent Valley to the timeless hamlets of Lea, Dethick and Riber. Finally we follow the canal to Cromford.

Highlight: Crich is home to the National Tramways Museum. Look out for these vintage vehicles when you cross the tram tracks at Crich Stand.

Option 1 - Chatsworth and Bakewell

Distance: 7½ miles (12km) 

Ascent: 800 feet (240m)

In summary: Walk along Baslow Edge, passing the Eagle Stone before descending into Baslow village and through Chatsworth Park to Chatsworth House. After exploring the estate village of Edensor we take a track and a quiet lane over the ridge into Bakewell. 

Highlight: Admire the grandeur of Chatsworth House, home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, and its surrounding parkland landscaped by Capability Brown.

Option 2 - Along the Edges and Through Chatsworth Park to Bakewell

Distance: 10½ miles (17km) 

Ascent: 1,300 feet (400m) 

In summary: High up on the Moors we take an exhilarating walk along Froggatt, and Curbar Edge. Pass Wellington’s Monument descending to Chatsworth before passing through Edensor then over a ridge and down into Bakewell. 

Highlight: The gritstone escarpment of Curbar and Froggatt Edge is one of the most popular walks in the Peak District, with sweeping views over the Derwent Valley. 

Option 1 - The Great Ridge

Distance: 6 miles (9.5km)

Ascent: 650 feet (200m)

In summary: Starting high up on Winnat's Pass we will make the short steep ascent to the top of Mam Tor. At 517 metres above sea level we will hopefully be rewarded with fantastic views in all directions. We then follow the famous Great Ridge before descending to Hope and a beautiful riverside walk to Castleton.

Highlight: If you have the energy, why not complete the short climb to Peveril Castle, or learn about village life through the ages and the unique local semi precious 'Blue John' stone at the fantastic interactive visitor centre in Castleton.

Option 2 - Hope to Castleton on the Great Ridge

Distance: 7 miles (11.5km)

Ascent: 1,600 feet (480m)

In summary: Starting in Hope, we climb up Lose Hill. From the summit we will traverse along the length of the ridge with fantastic views in all directions to Mam Tor. We then descend to Castleton along the Limestone Way via the remains of Peveril Castle and Cave Dale.

Highlight: Treat yourself to some jewellery crafted from the local 'Blue John' stone, or simply relax after an exhilarating walk with a cuppa and cake in one of the numerous tea shops in Castleton.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home.

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.

Helping you enjoy the Great Outdoors - A natural focus on walks 

Walks talks and Discovery Points 
Our founder, country pastor turned social innovator, Thomas Arthur Leonard, was passionate about encouraging people to explore the countryside. His legacy continues in HF's continued focus on walking.  Many guests choose to travel with us on guided or self-guided walking holidays, and as such, evenings at our houses are often busy with walk leaders hosting various briefings and talks.  On guided walking holiday arrival days, there are walking information briefings before dinner, and for the duration of any guided walking holiday there will be a Walks Talk before (or on occasion after dinner), to go through the following day's walk options.  Self-guided walking guests, and those on special interest holidays (where there is free time to explore independently), are of course welcome to also join in these Walks Talks - please talk to the team locally if you have any queries. Our Discovery Points are filled with handy maps and route notes, designed to ensure everyone, not just those booked on a guided walking holiday, can enjoy the beautiful countryside settings that our HF houses enjoy.  

The walking day 
Prior to setting off on guided walks, our HF Holidays Leaders run through a short safety briefing. There’s also an up-to-date weather forecast on display at the house to ensure walkers 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.

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

Weather conditions in the UK can vary throughout the day, and conditions in the mountains may be cold and windy even in summer. Use the following list as a guide when preparing for your holiday.

Essentials  

  • Suitable waterproof walking boots with ankle support and good grip

  • Waterproof, wind-resistant jacket with a hood, taped seams and a hydrostatic head rating of at least 10,000 mm

  • Waterproof overtrousers  

  • Spare warm clothing, such as a synthetic insulated jacket

  • Comfortable walking clothing (jeans & waterproof capes are not suitable)  

  • Warm mid-layers, such as fleeces

  • Gloves and a warm hat, even in summer

  • Rucksack with a waterproof liner 

  • Water bottle with a capacity of at least 1 litre

  • Flask for hot drinks   

  • Sunscreen  

  • UV-protective sunglasses

  • Spare high-energy food

  • Head torch and spare batteries for holidays between October and March

  • Passport (if applicable)

  • Visa (if applicable) 

  • Copy of your travel insurance policy 

Recommended  

  • Several base layers, with long or short sleeves 

  • Cushioned walking socks to avoid blisters  

  • First-aid kit, including plasters, insect repellent, a midge net and a tick-removal tool

  • Sit mat   

  • Waterproof pouch for valuables  

  • Rubbish bags

  • Wallet or purse

  • Camera

  • Walking poles

  • Sun hat

  • Gaiters

  • Mobile Phones

  • Swimwear (please see accommodation information for hotel facilities)

  • Membership cards for English Heritage, the National Trust or similar heritage organisations in Scotland and Wales, if you are a member. These may be useful when visiting attractions during your itinerary or on your free day.

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.

Carbon Footprint - 200kg CO2

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.

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Dates & availability

7 Night Central Peak District Guided Walking for Solos Holiday

Members save an additional £30 on this booking and get a range of other exclusive benefits. Add HF Membership to your booking online. Read more about membership

2027

1 Oct - 8 Oct 2027

6 nights. Trip notes

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Trusted British co-operative

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 and self-guided bookings).

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Book with confidence

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

If we cancel your holiday, we honour all refund requests 

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Travel with confidence

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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HF Holidays

A British heritage brand with 111 years of experience

Offering a choice of over 260 itineraries in nearly 40 countries

Run as a co-operative with 40,000-plus members

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