Under 11s go free

7 Night Peak District Family Walking Adventure

england derbyshire peak district national park valley of the river dove dovedale
Duration: 7 nights
Type: Family walking holidays
Walking Grade: 1, 3 & 4
from £1,449pp £1,304pp

The UK’s oldest national park is a playground for family adventures big and small. In a land of pretty villages, limestone valleys, and rugged gritstone edges, we offer walks for little legs, trails for older children, and hikes that’ll keep the whole clan happy – all with our experienced HF Holidays Leaders. Follow the High Peak Trail to the lead mining villages of Brassington and Carsington, take the Tissington Trail for views of Dove Dale Gorge, and walk through the stunning grounds of Chatsworth House – the setting for many TV shows and films. And when you need to refuel, stop off in Bakewell for a slice of its famous tart.

What you’ll love

  • Under 11s GO FREE
  • Spending family time together in the great outdoors
  • Being close to the famous Dovedale Stepping Stones
  • Bird Watching at Carsington Dam or Exploring Ilam Park
  • Discovering Derbyshire’s industrial heritage 
  • Staying in the comfort of our country house

What’s included

  • Family rooms available subject to availability
  • 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 tailored towards families, plus tea & coffee 
  • Guided walking with experienced HF Holidays Leaders 
  • Choice of up to four 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.

Check-in at the hotel is available from 4pm. Enjoy a complimentary cream tea on arrival.


Option 1 - Above and Below the Dam

Distance: 3½ miles (5km)

Total ascent: 300 feet (80m)

In summary: A shorter walk with lots of time to discover the wood carvings and enjoy the visitor centre of spend time in a bird hide.

Highlight: Lovely views across the water and the chance to see kingfishers and buzzards.

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 - 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 4 - 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 - St Mary's and Coldwall Bridges

Distance: 3 miles (4.5km)

Ascent: 350 feet (140m)

In summary: We cross Thorpe Pasture and descend to the River Dove to walk to St. Mary’s Bridge continue along the river crossing historic Coldwall Bridge and returning to explore the village of Thorpe.

Highlight: Intriguing Coldwall Bridge dating back to 1726.  

Option 2 - 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 3 - 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 4 - 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.


Discover more about Peveril of the Peak and the local area for ideas on how to make the most of your free day.


Option 1 - Dovedale

Distance: 3½ miles (5.5km)

Ascent: 650 feet (200m)

In summary: We walk out from the house to Gag Lane, from here we descend to Lover's Leap and the beautiful Dovedale Gorge. Our return takes us along the gorge to the famous stepping stones before returning to the country house. 

Highlight: Look up to see spectacular rock formations as you meander through the gorge. 

Option 2 - Dovedale Gorge

Distance: 7 miles (11km)

Ascent: 1,200 feet (360m)  

In summary: Beginning with a descent to the famous stepping stones we follow the River Dove to Milldale. Following the zig zag path we then return through pasture land high above the gorge.

Highlight: The famous limestone gorge of Dovedale is just a stone’s throw from our country house with its rock formations, caves and verdant flora.

Option 3 - Dovedale and Alstonefield

Distance: 9 miles (14.5km)

Ascent: 1,150 feet (340m)

In summary: We begin following the route of option 1 through the iconic Dovedale Gorge. From Milldale we ascend to the village of Alstonefield. We visit the Green Well before our return route takes us back across the river and on higher ground back to the country house.

Highlight: The dramatic Dovedale Gorge with its towering limestone pinnacles.

Option 4 - Dovedale and Narrowdale Hill

Distance: 12 miles (19km)

Ascent: 1,400 feet (420m)

In summary: Having first walked up the beautiful Dovedale Gorge and reached Alstonefield, our walk takes a high level loop north to Narrowdale Hill, before returning across the river and along the route of option 2. 

Highlight: Magnificent panoramic views from Narrowdale Hill


Option 1 - Grinlow Tower, Poole's Cavern & Buxton

Distance: 2½ miles (3.5km)

Total ascent: 100 feet (40m)

In summary: Starting at Grin Low Country Park, we’ll climb to Solomon’s Temple (also known as Grinlow Tower) before descending through the woods, passing Poole Cavern before reaching Buxton with its baths, fountain and extensive gardens.

Highlight: The 360 degree views from Solomon's Temple.

Option 2 - Cat & Fiddle to Buxton

Distance: 6 miles (9.5km)

Total ascent: 600ft (180m)

In summary: This walk begins at the Cat & Fiddle, the 2nd highest pub in England, before continuing over moorland to Grin Low Country Park to Buxton, via Solomon’s Temple.

Highlight: The superb views from Burbage Edge.

Option 3 - 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 4 - Goyt Valley

Distance: 9 miles (14.5km)

Ascent: 1,100 feet (340m)

In summary: This walk goes from the Cat & Fiddle to Errwood Hall where we explore the woods to see the Spanish chapel. We then walk across Wild Moor - listen out for the curlews and lapwings!

Highlight: Enjoying the peaceful and tranquil Spanish chapel.


Option 1 - Ilam

Distance: 4 miles (6.5km) 

Ascent: 400 feet (120m)

In summary: Taking a route round iconic Thorpe Cloud we then cross the River Dove (bridge) and follow pasture land to the unique village of Ilam. There will be plenty of time to explore the grounds of Ilam Hall before returning by the river on the Manifold Way and then ascending back to Thorpe on an old coaching track now the Limestone Way.

Highlight: Beautiful Ilam Park with its Hall and the pseudo Alpine village of Ilam.

Option 2 - Ilam Park

Distance: 8 miles (12.5km) 

Ascent: 1,300 feet (400m)

In summary: The walk begins with a descent to cross the River Dove and then across fields to reach lofty Castern Hall. From here we follow the route of the Manifold into Ilam Park before ascending to the hamlet of Blore and follow the Limestone Way on our return to the country house.  

Highlight: Beautiful Ilam Park with its Hall, church and gardens. We can see the River Manifold as it emerges from its underground route.

Option 3 - 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 4 - 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

Named after Sir Walter Scott’s Peak District-set novel, this characterful country house is less than a mile from the famous Dovedale Stepping Stones and on the doorstep of Thorpe Cloud – a cone-shaped limestone hill that offers impressive views over the rolling green landscape that forms the Staffordshire/Derbyshire border. Both are easily accessible from the rear of the property. 

There are plenty of big-name walking destinations nearby including the Roaches, the impressive Stanage Edge, and the Twelve Apostles - a group of rock spires best viewed from the limestone promontory known as Lover’s Leap. 

 

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.

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. 

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, 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. 

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

10662_0065 - Peveril of the Peak - Exterior

Getting to The Peveril of the Peak

Find out more about this location including travel details and room types.

More Information

Address

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
  • Walking poles

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.

Members save £30 on all prices. Join today! Click here or call us to find out more.

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
2026

24 Jul - 31 Jul 2026

7 nights

Family Walks

Single from

£1,449 £1,304

Double from

£1,449 £1,304 pp

from

£1,449 £1,304 pp

from

£1,449 £1,304

Early Booking Offer Save £145 Per Adult Trip Notes
Enquire

Important information

Maximum 3 free child places (under 11 years) per full paying adult price on UK country house stays. 

Family rooms are subject to availability. Sole occupancy charges may apply.

Children under 11 go free

Children 11-17 years (2025) - £149pp (7nights)

All children's rates are based on sharing a guest room with one or more adults.

Children under 14 must be accompanied by a responsible adult on all walks, though this need not be a parent or guardian.

Duration:
7 nights
Type:
Family walking holidays
Walking Grade:
1, 3 & 4

7 nights from £1,449pp £1,304pp

Under 11s go free

or call 020 3974 8865

For group bookings of 10+ guests click here

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