Things to do in the Peak District
Arbor Low Stone Circle
Often called “The Stonehenge of the Peak District”, Arbor Low is a Neolithic henge monument set high on the open moorland near the village of Monyash, just a ten-minute drive from Knotlow Farm. Although none of the stones are now standing, it is believed to have been a major sacred site, the size of which has to be seen to be appreciated. You don’t have to pay to visit Arbor Low or the nearby Gibb Hill burial mound, but the farmer across whose farmyard you will have to pass to reach the site levies a modest charge. Arbor Low is managed by English Heritage and if your list of things to do in the Peak District is lacking that winning combination of outdoor exercise and ancient history, then this is the perfect place for you!
Castleton and Peverill Castle
There cannot be more things to do in the Peak District all in one village than what’s on offer in and around Castleton. Roughly a twenty-minute drive from Knotlow Farm, you can start by visiting Peveril Castle (a ruined 11th century castle and one of England’s earliest Normal fortresses). It is managed by English Heritage. The immediate area boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Peak District, including Winnats Pass and the notorious Mam Tor, half of which collapsed in 1974 in a large landslide, contorting the adjacent A625 into the most incredible shapes and structures, which can still be seen today. Castleton village is well worth a visit and has plenty of places to eat out and buy a loved one a gift of local Blue John stone jewellery. The mineral is mined underneath the steep slopes all around the village and most of these mines are open to visitors in the summer months – one of them even boasts an eerie and exciting boat trip inside the mountain.
Chatsworth
Chatsworth House needs little introduction, having featured in many TV documentaries and films, the most famous of which are of course, two well-known dramatic productions of Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice. Chatsworth and the nearby village of Edensor are well worth a visit if you like enchanting interiors, impressive architecture and landscaped gardens on an epic scale. There is also a real farmyard experience and a superb adventure playground, set on the edge of woods behind the house. Entry to either of these is separate from the main attraction, which is of course the house and gardens. The magnificent stable block next to the main house contains a restaurant and shops, and you don’t have to pay anything other than the standard parking charge to access these if you are driving in.
Walks & Hikes in the Local Area
The Peak District National Park has no shortage of hikes and walks, with even Knotlow Farm sitting along the historic Limestone Way, a 46-mile marked route between the village of Rocester in Staffordshire and the iconic village of Castleton in the heart of the Peaks.
Here is a list of some of the most popular choices close to the campsite:
Lathkill Dale
Distance Away: 20-30 minute walk from the campsite via the village of Monyash (~1 Mile away)
Lathkill Dale is a stunning walk that takes you through a deep limestone valley. Known for its clear, sparkling river, small waterfalls and lush greenery, it’s a favourite for both casual walkers and nature enthusiasts.
The area is rich in flora and fauna, making it a delightful spot for a leisurely stroll or a more enjoyable hike.
View the Lathkill Dale Walk
Monsal Trail & Chee Dale Stepping Stones
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Distance Away: 12-minute drive (to Millers Dale Car Park)
The Monsal Trail is an 8.5-mile route that follows a former railway line between Bakewell just outside of Buxton. This relatively flat trail is perfect for a casual walk or cycle.
A highlight, a short detour from the trail, is the Chee Dale Stepping Stones, where you can hop across the River Wye and enjoy the serene beauty of the dale valley.
Solomon’s Temple (Just outside Buxton)
Distance Away: 15-minute drive (Parking at Poole’s Cavern)
A short drive from the campsite just outside Buxton is Solomon’s Temple, the historic landmark on Grin Low Hill.
The walk to the temple offers a gentle climb through the woodland with rewarding views over Buxton and the surrounding peaks.
Parkhouse & Chrome Hill (The Dragon’s Back)
Distance Away: 17-minute drive
Just a short drive into the Staffordhsire peaks, this walk offers breathtaking views but moderately challenging steep terrain requiring a scrabble in places.
The distinctive ridge of Parkhouse Hill and Chrome Hill is often referred to as the Dragon’s Back due to the look of the hill shapes.
View Dragon’s Back walking route
Dovedale
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Distance Away: 23-minute drive
Dovedale is one of the most famous Peak District walks, attracting visitors since the Victorian times when the stepping stone were built.
It is known for its dramatic limestone ravines and beautiful river scenery. Optionally, Climb Thorpe Cloud for fantastic views, or explore the intriguing Reynard’s Cave along the way.
Thor’s Cave
(Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/brown-and-black-cave-with-blue-water-XMBjn3_giDk )
Distance Away: 20-minute drive
This impressive natural cavern is perched high above the Manifold Valley.
The walk to Thor’s Cave is a bit steep but well worth the effort for the incredible views and the chance to explore the cave itself.
Carsington Water
(Source: https://www.peakdistrict.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Carsington-Water-dam-wall-footpath.jpg )
Distance Away: 25-minute drive
This large reservoir, just outside the Peak District boundary, is surrounded by a network of walking and cycling paths.
It’s a great spot for a more relaxed walk with beautiful waterside views and plenty of opportunities for birdwatching.
View the circular Carsington water route
The Roaches
Distance Away: 27-minute drive
The Roaches offer rugged terrain and stunning scenery, making it a popular destination for walkers and rock climbers.
Optionally you can also extend your walk to multiple landmarks via Hen Cloud, which provides a challenging ascent. Or Lud’s Church, a deep, moss-covered chasm, which adds a touch of mystery to the hike.
You can check out this list of 28+ Peak District walking routes for even more hikes in the wider national park.
