The Peak District could be much more than a walking destination
Filed under Feature Walks by Heidi on 26-07-2010
The Peak District may also be ideal for holidays, as well as top class walking breaks.
Walking in the Peak District has long been one of many British ramblers’ favourite activities as the area offers some of the country’s best and most breathtaking natural scenery.
Situated in the centre of England, the Peak District was, according to its official tourism website, the first region in the UK to be granted National Park status. And it is clear when you visit the area that this award was not given out lightly, as its dramatic moorland and picturesque, rolling hills are enough to impress anybody.
However, despite its well-earned reputation as one of the leading destinations for ramblers of all ages and abilities across the country due to its wide range of different paths and trails of all difficulties, the Peak District could also be an ideal place to visit for a family holiday at any time of year.
“With a fascinating historical and cultural heritage, this unique and diverse region is home to some of the country’s finest stately homes [and] enchanting market towns,” the web page continued, meaning that the region may have something to keep everyone content and amused during a holiday there.
Any taste, budget and interest is catered for in this tourist hub at the heart of the country, which means that it could be ideal for breaks ranging from romantic getaways to fun family holidays.
For example, people who are interested in the history of the region might like to visit Derby’s Silk Mill, which is the city’s museum of industry and history and is renowned as the origin of the country’s Industrial Revolution, which changed the face of manufacturing and business across the globe in the 19th century.
The Heage Windmill could also be another unmissable attraction as the sight of it is like taking a trip down memory lane due to its status as the country’s only remaining stone towered windmill.
Castles are a prevalent attraction in the Peak District, with Bolsover Castle – which is owned by the English Heritage organisation – providing re-enactments of battles and jousts between knights for the entertainment of visitors.
For those tourists who prefer more contemporary activities, nearby urban areas and conurbations such as Derby, Buxton, Matlock Bath and Ashbourne could be perfect alternatives while the history buffs among the party soak up sights such as the Bolsover Castle.
Meanwhile, any children – or adults who are simply young at heart – seeking an adrenaline rush and a fun day out might appreciate a trip to the country’s largest theme park, Alton Towers, which is also near to the Peak District.
And walkers who might want to diversify somewhat from a normal walk around the green open spaces of one of Britain’s most renowned rambling destinations may be interested to note that there are a number of official trails that take in some of the region’s towns.
These paths offer something a bit different to just walking in the countryside and trails through locations such as Derby, Swadlincote, Bakewell and Castleton give visitors the chance to see the Peak District from a different angle.
