7 Night Central Peak District Guided Walking for Solos Holiday

Lee Wood Hotel
New holidays

7 nights at an HF Country House

Availability Oct 2027

One itinerary available

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Grades 2, 3 & 4 details

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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 and options

This trip is graded activity level 2 and 3, Explore the beautiful Peak District National Park on our guided walks. We offer a great range of walks to suit everyone - from beautiful limestone valleys, to spectacular scenery on the gritstone edges. We'll take you to all the classic viewpoints, timeless villages and hidden corners. Join our friendly and knowledgeable guides who will bring this stunning national park to life.

Our experienced guides offer the choice of three different walks each day
Choose the option which best suits your interests and fitness
We provide flexible holidays. Join our guided walks, explore independently, or relax at our Country House.


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

Reviews


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

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 - 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 - 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.

Option 2 - 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. 

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 - The Derwent Valley and Cromford

Distance: 9½ miles (15km) 

Ascent: 900 feet (280m) 

In summarySoak 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.

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

Option 2 - 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 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 summaryHigh 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. 

HighlightThe 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 - 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.

Option 2 - 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.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home.

Daily Walk Options

Grade 2

Easier Walks

Good paths but walks are a bit longer. Some walks, particularly in mountain areas, may have sections over rough or steeper terrain.

Grade 3 Grade 4

Medium Walks

Walks follow well-defined paths, though often in hilly or upland areas, or along rugged coastal footpaths. These may be rough or steep in sections and will require reasonable fitness.

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-BOS01

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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. You can join during booking process. Read more about membership

2027

1 Oct - 8 Oct 2027

7 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£1,329

pp

Members

£1,299

pp
Single rooms

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

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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 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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