Campsites in Derbyshire & Peak District

Mountains, valleys and trails

Derbyshire and the Peak District are perfect for exploring on foot. With rolling green valleys, dramatic ridges, and wide open moorlands, the landscapes are full of trails to discover. Whether you’re climbing a peak, wandering through a limestone dale, or cycling through peaceful lanes, there are amazing views around every corner.

One of the best-known climbs is Mam Tor (517m), also known as the “Shivering Mountain,” which overlooks the beautiful Hope Valley. From its summit, you can see far across the hills and spot walkers following the Great Ridge towards Lose Hill. For more challenging hikes, the Kinder Downfall Circular is a must-do. This route takes you to the top of Kinder Scout (636m), the highest point in the Peak District, where you’ll find the impressive Kinder Downfall. The path continues across the moors to Crowden Head and back via Jacob’s Ladder, one of the most famous ancient packhorse routes in the area.

Nearby, Bamford Edge and Stanage Edge circular walks are ideal for stunning views. Stanage Edge, famous among climbers and walkers, stretches for miles with breathtaking views across the Hope Valley, and it’s one of the best spots in the park to watch a sunset. Bamford Edge, just across the valley, offers a quieter alternative with views over Ladybower Reservoir and the Upper Derwent Valley, an area known for its peaceful reservoirs and forest trails.

Lathkill Dale is one of the Peak District’s most beautiful dales. Its river, wildlife, and dramatic rock formations make it a favourite for gentle rambles, especially in summer when wildflowers fill the valley floor. Nearby, the steep and striking Winnats Pass offers one of the most dramatic drives or walks in the area, with towering limestone walls rising on either side as you climb towards Castleton.

For gentler climbs, Shining Tor and Black Hill suit families or beginners, offering rolling hills and wide-reaching views. The Edale Valley, at the heart of the park, is surrounded by dramatic ridges and grassy slopes, perfect for circular walks and picnics. Not far away, Solomon’s Temple is a Victorian hilltop folly above Buxton that offers a short, family-friendly walk with views across the surrounding hills.

The Upper Dove Valley and Manifold Valley are quieter, winding through limestone dales, caves, and hidden woodlands, while the Wye Valley in the central Peaks is known for its winding river and rich wildlife. Another much-loved spot is Three Shires Head, where the counties of Derbyshire, Cheshire, and Staffordshire meet. Its stone bridge and waterfalls create a perfect setting for a peaceful stop off or a refreshing paddle.

Cyclists and walkers will also love the region’s old railway routes, now turned into scenic trails through the countryside. The High Peak Trail, Monsal Trail, Tissington Trail, and Thornhill Trail all pass through tunnels, over old railway bridges, and alongside rivers and meadows. These mostly flat paths are perfect for a family bike ride or a relaxed day out surrounded by nature.

The nine edges of the Peaks

For those who love a challenge, the Nine Edges of the Peak District offer one of the most exciting long-distance routes in the national park. Stretching across the eastern gritstone edges of the Peak District, this route links together nine dramatic cliff ridges: Derwent Edge, Stanage Edge, Upper Burbage, Lower Burbage, Froggatt Edge, Curbar Edge, Baslow Edge, Gardom's Edge, and Birchen Edge. Each edge has its own unique character and epic views, making the full trail a brilliant adventure for walkers, climbers, and fell runners.

The route, known as the 9 Edges Challenge, covers roughly 20 to 23 miles, depending on the path you take, and runs from Derwent Edge near Ladybower Reservoir down to Birchen Edge, close to Baslow. Some people complete the full route in a single day, while others break it up into a two-day trek. The challenge can also be done as part of an annual charity event, where walkers and runners raise money for mountain rescue teams.

Each of the edges offers something special. Derwent Edge has moorland views and unusual rock formations like the “Wheel Stones”, "Cakes of Bread" and “Salt Cellar.” Stanage Edge, the longest and one of the most famous, attracts climbers from all over the world for its rugged cliffs and panoramic views. The Burbage Edges are ideal for shorter walks and bouldering, while Froggatt, Curbar, and Baslow Edges provide quieter paths, often shared with grazing sheep. Further south, Gardom's Edge hides ancient carvings and woodland trails, and Birchen Edge is home to the Nelson Monument and gritstone boulders named after famous naval ships.

Completing the Nine Edges Challenge is an incredible way to see the variety of landscapes, from wild moors and rock formations to wooded valleys and panoramic views.

Reservoirs and hidden caves

Across the region, there are over 60 man-made reservoirs, each with its own charm. The most famous of all is Ladybower Reservoir, with its curved dam walls and reflections of the surrounding fells. When water levels drop, you can sometimes glimpse the remains of the villages of Derwent and Ashopton, which were flooded to create the reservoir. Just upstream lie Derwent Reservoir and Howden Reservoir, part of the Upper Derwent Valley. This area is full of history, as it was here that the legendary Dambusters trained for their World War II missions.

To the north, Winscar Reservoir, Torside Reservoir, and Langsett Reservoir are surrounded by wild moorland and peaceful forests, perfect for birdwatching and quiet picnics. Meanwhile, Tittesworth Reservoir, near Leek, is great for families, with a visitor centre, café, fishing and watersports. For quiet walks, the Linacre Reservoirs near Chesterfield offer a series of woodland trails that are home to birds like kingfishers and woodpeckers.

Beneath the hills, the Peak District hides limestone caves and caverns. Around Castleton, several show caves reveal glittering underground chambers formed millions of years ago. Peak Cavern has one of the largest natural cave entrances in Britain and even hosts concerts and events in its large, echoing space. Nearby, Speedwell Cavern offers an unforgettable boat trip along an underground canal to a hidden lake deep inside the rock.

Blue John Cavern and Treak Cliff Cavern are world-famous for their veins of rare Blue John stone, a semi-precious mineral found only in this part of Derbyshire. Visitors can see the colourful bands of purple, blue, and yellow running through the stone and learn how it’s still hand-mined and crafted into beautiful jewellery today.

In Buxton, Poole’s Cavern is filled with impressive stalactites and stalagmites, and guided tours bring the historic limestone chambers to life with stories of local legends and geology. Further south, Thor’s Cave rises dramatically above the Manifold Valley, with a huge arched entrance. A short but steep walk leads up to the cave, where visitors can explore its vast interior, which shows evidence of human occupation during the Stone Age.

For a mix of both adventure and stunning scenery, head to the Heights of Abraham in Matlock Bath. A cable car carries you high above the Derwent Valley to panoramic viewpoints, with woodland trails and two show caves waiting to be explored.

Outdoor adventures

From wild moors and rivers to rocky cliffs and reservoirs, Derbyshire and the Peak District are made for epic adventures. For those who like a challenge, abseiling and rock climbing are among the Peak District’s most thrilling activities. The region is famous for its gritstone cliffs, and spots like Stanage Edge, Froggatt Edge, and Curbar Edge offer world-class climbing with views across the Hope Valley. The Roaches, near Leek, is another popular bouldering area, known for its rugged rock formations and views over the Staffordshire Moorlands.

A great range of watersports are also on offer. Carsington Water is a hub for sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, and paddleboarding, while its shoreline is perfect for cycling or walking. Tittesworth Reservoir near Leek and Winscar Reservoir on the northern edge of the Peaks are also great spots for kayaking and gentle paddles. Wild swimming is growing in popularity in the rivers Derwent, Dove, and Trent, where quiet pools and slow-moving stretches make for perfect swimming spots on warm summer days. One of the most popular locations is Youlgreave, where clear, shallow stretches of the River Bradford wind through meadows, ideal for a refreshing dip.

For an underground adventure, the Peak District’s caves are full of mystery. Guided caving trips near Castleton let you scramble through natural tunnels and chambers, while the show caves like Speedwell Cavern and Poole’s Cavern offer more relaxing routes to explore the area’s hidden world.

Above ground, gorge scrambling combines climbing, wading, and jumping through mountain streams, a real favourite in the Dovedale and Upper Derwent Valley areas. And if you’re craving high-flying excitement, you can take on one of the region’s high-wire and zipline courses, where ropes, bridges, and ziplines stretch through forests and over rocky gorges with locations like Go Ape Buxton.

Cyclists have plenty to explore with old railway lines that lead you through tunnels and across viaducts, with gentle gradients and countryside views. For mountain bikers, areas like Ladybower Reservoir and Jacob's Ladder offer tougher terrain and steep descents.

When it’s time to unwind, Tatton Park and Chatsworth Estate offer gentler outdoor days, with gardens, deer parks, and open spaces to explore. For something even more peaceful, Rosliston Forestry Centre provides a mix of woodland trails, family friendly activities, wildlife hides, and nature play areas set within the National Forest, perfect for a relaxed day outdoors. You can even go fishing or join a wildlife walk to spot red deer, buzzards, and herons.

Market towns and quiet villages

At the heart of the county is Derby, a cathedral city with industrial roots. Once a centre of Britain’s railway and silk industries, it’s now full of museums and markets. The Derby Museum and Art Gallery showcases Joseph Wright’s paintings, while the Cathedral Quarter is packed with shops, cafés, and riverside walks.

To the north, Matlock and Matlock Bath are popular for their riverside charm and top attractions. Visitors can ride the Heights of Abraham cable cars to enjoy views above the Derwent Valley or explore the town’s vintage shops and tearooms. Nearby is Wirksworth, one of Derbyshire’s oldest towns, known for its creative scene with art trails, festivals, and narrow lanes lined with cottages.

The spa town of Buxton is full of Georgian architecture, including the Buxton Crescent and Opera House. It’s also a gateway to the moors and limestone dales, with beautiful gardens and the famous Poole’s Cavern just a short walk away. Close by, Bakewell is world-famous for its sweet treat, the Bakewell Tart, and offers cobbled streets, riverside walks, and the lovely Bakewell Bridge over the River Wye. Not far from Bakewell is the historic village of Eyam, known for its unique story during the plague. Today, visitors can explore its museum, peaceful lanes, and surrounding hillsides.

In the south, Ashbourne is known as the “Gateway to Dovedale,” with Georgian buildings and a market square. The town’s annual Royal Shrovetide Football Match is a centuries-old tradition that turns the whole town into a giant playing field! Not far away, the village of Tissington is one of the prettiest in the Peaks, with quiet country lanes perfect for walking or cycling.

Hartington, with its stone cottages and duck pond, is a postcard-perfect stop for walkers, especially those exploring the Tissington Trail. Nearby Ashford-in-the-Water, with its famous medieval Sheepwash Bridge, is another lovely village beside the River Wye.

To the east, Chesterfield is famous for its Crooked Spire Church, a landmark that twists above the skyline. Belper, part of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site, offers a look at the area’s industrial past, with riverside walks and heritage mills.

Further north, Glossop is a great base for exploring the Dark Peak moors and Kinder Scout, while New Mills is home to the dramatic Torrs Riverside Park and the impressive Millennium Walkway suspended above the River Goyt.

In the south of the county, Melbourne is full of charm, with Georgian houses, independent shops, and the historic Melbourne Hall and Gardens. Swadlincote, once known for its pottery and mining, now offers a mix of heritage trails and outdoor fun, including Swadlincote Snowsports Centre.

Stately homes and historic estates

Derbyshire and the Peak District are full of grand houses, castles, and old estates that show what life was like hundreds of years ago. Many offer scenic gardens, woodland walks, and amazing views, making them great places for a family day out.

Chatsworth House is the most famous. Often called the “Palace of the Peaks,” it has beautiful rooms filled with paintings, sculptures, and treasures. Outside, you’ll find a maze, fountains, a huge garden, and even a farmyard for children. Chatsworth has been in films like Pride and Prejudice and hosts big events such as Christmas markets and country shows.

Nearby is Haddon Hall, one of the best-kept medieval houses in England. With stone courtyards, pretty gardens, and old fireplaces, it's full of English charm. It’s also a popular filming location, used in shows and films like Jane Eyre and Mary Queen of Scots.

Hardwick Hall is a popular National Trust property showing an English interpretation of Italian Renaissance Architecture. Visitors can stroll around the gardens, discover the woodland family play trails and view the amazing collections of artworks. Calke Abbey (also part of the National Trust) sits in 600 acres of countryside with a deer park, mansion house and walled gardens.

South of Derby is Kedleston Hall, a grand Georgian mansion with a spectacular marble hall designed to look like an ancient Roman temple. The estate has acres of parkland and peaceful lakeside walks.

Perched on a hill, Bolsover Castle is famous for its 17th century horsemanship and stunning views, great for kids who enjoy exploring castle towers. Not far away is Sutton Scarsdale Hall, a dramatic 18th century, hilltop ruin with tall stone walls that has been roofless since 1919.

Above Castleton, Peveril Castle offers one of the best views in the Peak District. This Norman fortress overlooks the Hope Valley and the pretty village below. Closer to Derby, Elvaston Castle Country Park has a Gothic-style building surrounded by woodlands, lakes, and gardens, perfect for easy walks and picnics. The Thornbridge Estate, near Ashford-in-the-Water, has lovely grounds, a walled garden, and its own brewery in the grounds!

Near Chesterfield, Renishaw Hall and Gardens is known for its Italian-style gardens, colourful flowers, and links to the Sitwell family, who were famous writers. Just outside the national park, Tatton Park offers a large mansion, a farm, a deer park, and beautiful gardens. It also hosts family events throughout the year.

The Bakewell tart and local flavours

From hearty pies to handmade cheeses and old family recipes, the region is known for simple, traditional flavours that come from its farms, villages, and small bakeries. Many cafés and pubs still use recipes that have been passed down for generations, making the Peak District a great place for a delicious bite to eat.

Bakewell is the most famous foodie stop, thanks to the Bakewell Tart and the Bakewell Pudding. The tart is the version most people know, with a shortcrust base, jam, and almond sponge. But the older, original recipe is the Bakewell Pudding, made with flaky pastry, raspberry jam, and a soft, rich almond filling. Several bakeries in Bakewell claim theirs is “the real one,” so trying a few is part of the fun.

Derbyshire Oatcakes are another local favourite. These thin, chewy oat pancakes are often served warm with cheese, bacon, or mushrooms, and you’ll find them in village shops, markets, and cosy cafés. For something even heartier, Fidgety Pie brings together ham or bacon, potatoes, onions, and sometimes apples for a sweet-and-salty twist, perfect for refuelling after a day of walking.

Buxton also has its own special pudding made of shortcrust pastry, jam and a sponge topping that includes breadcrumbs. Rich, fruity, and best served with custard or cream, it’s called Buxton Pudding, a traditional treat that some local bakeries have been making for more than a century.

Cheese lovers shouldn’t miss Hartington, a village famous for its long cheesemaking history. The Hartington Creamery produces award-winning Stilton, Peakland Blue, and creamy soft cheeses, many of which you can buy in the village’s tiny cheese shop.

Another traditional treat is Tharf Cake (also called Thor Cake or Thar Cake), a dense, slightly sweet flatbread made from flour, butter, and treacle or sugar. It was often enjoyed as a warming snack during Bonfire Night celebrations, either toasted with butter or alongside a hot drink. The region is also known for Pikelets, or Pyclets, which are thin, soft, crumpet-like snacks. Toasted with butter, jam, or honey, they make a simple but tasty snack or breakfast.

Across the Peak District, farm shops and tearooms sell local honey, jams, meats, and homemade treats. Whether you’re enjoying a slice of Bakewell Pudding by the river or tasting cheese in a quiet village, the food of Derbyshire and the Peaks is all about fresh ingredients, homely cooking, and local traditions.

Top things to do in Derbyshire and the Peak District

• Visit Chatsworth House - Explore the grand stately home, its gardens, art collections, and seasonal exhibitions
• Walk along the Monsal Trail - Cycle or walk along this scenic former railway line, passing viaducts, tunnels, and rivers
• Trek to Mam Tor - Known as the “Shivering Mountain,” climb this Peak District favourite for views over the Hope Valley
• Explore Buxton - Stroll the historic spa town, enjoy Georgian architecture, and visit the Pavilion Gardens and Opera House
• Head to Haddon Hall – A medieval manor with cobbled courtyards, period rooms, and beautiful gardens
• Take to the water at Carsington Water - Sail, paddleboard, or relax by the lake while spotting wildlife along the shore
• Discover Poole’s Cavern, Buxton - Wander through this limestone cave system with guided tours showcasing underground formations
• Visit Treak Cliff Cavern - See the rare Blue John Stone and learn about local mining history in Castleton
• Cycle or walk the Tissington Trail - Enjoy a gentle, traffic-free route through the Derbyshire countryside and villages
• Climb Stanage Edge - Popular with walkers and climbers because of its dramatic gritstone edges and views over Hope Valley
• Try a Bakewell Tart– Sample the town’s iconic sweet treat at a traditional bakery or tearoom
• Hike the Kinder Downfall Circular - Reach the Peak District’s highest point and see the dramatic waterfall of Kinder Downfall
• Walk along Derwent Reservoir - Beautiful lakeside trails, fishing spots, and wildlife watching in the Upper Derwent Valley
• Visit Elvaston Castle Country Park – Explore gardens, woodland trails, and lakes just outside Derby
• Take a guided tour of Bolsover Castle – Discover this striking 17th-century palace perched above the town
• Discover the Heights of Abraham, Matlock Bath – Ride cable cars to hilltop views, caves, and adventure play areas
• Explore Dovedale – Famous stepping stones, limestone cliffs, and river walks make this a must-see
• Visit Ashford-in-the-Water -  A charming village with a historic packhorse bridge and traditional tea rooms
• Climb Shining Tor – A quieter Peak District peak with excellent views over the Goyt Valley
• Enjoy the Thornbridge Estate - Famous for its gardens, family-friendly events, and craft brewery experiences
• Stroll through Wirksworth - Charming streets, arts and crafts shops, and a historic market hall in the heart of the Peak District
• Take a ride or walk along the High Peak Trail - A scenic former railway line with tunnels, viaducts, and open views across moors
• Explore Hardwick Hall - An Elizabethan house with stunning gardens and impressive interiors
• Tour Calke Abbey - A historic country house with 600 acres of parkland
• Ride the Crich Tramway Village - Take a trip on a vintage tram and explore historic streets and museum
• Visit Matlock Farm Park - Great for little ones with hands-on farm experiences with animals, play areas, and seasonal events
• Discover The Great British Car Journey - Explore Britain’s automotive history through interactive displays
• Meet animals at Peak Wildlife Park - Family-friendly park with rare and exotic animals
• Head to nearby Alton Towers - Just over the border in Staffordshire, this theme park is set in over 500 acres with thrilling rides and rollercoasters!

Hidden gems

The Peak District is full of hidden gems for anyone who wants to get away from the crowds. These quieter spots are perfect for discovering nature, history, and adventure at a more relaxed pace.

Lumsdale Falls and the Lumsdale Valley, near Matlock, offer woodland paths that lead past small waterfalls and old mill ruins. There are lots of spots to stop and enjoy a picnic surrounded by trees.

For something a bit more mysterious, Lud’s Church is a deep, mossy chasm in the Staffordshire part of the Peak District. The narrow pathway offers a lovely, magic-looking walkway, especially when the mist rolls in!

Jacob’s Ladder, near Mam Tor, is a quiet but rewarding path. The steep climb leads to wide views over the Edale Valley. It is much less busy than some other Peak District climbs, so you can enjoy the scenery in peace.

Not far away, Padley Gorge, managed by the National Trust, is one of the most magical woodland areas in the Peak District. Trails wind past rivers, mossy boulders, and ancient trees. For a short but impressive viewpoint, Ashover Rock, also known as The Fabrick, offers a gentle climb leading to views across rolling countryside. It’s a peaceful spot perfect for a quiet moment or a family walk.

Hidden waterfalls like Birchen Clough Waterfall are also worth visiting. Tucked away in quiet valleys, these small falls are beautiful and peaceful, perfect for a photo or just enjoying the view.

For walkers looking for striking landscapes, the dramatic limestone peaks of Parkhouse and Chrome Hill (often called the Dragon’s Back) make for one of the most unique ridge walks in the Peak District, with sweeping views.

For a heartwarming day out, take a trip to the Freshfields Donkey Village. Set in a rural location, it’s a sanctuary where rescued donkeys enjoy a peaceful life, and visitors can meet them, learn about their care, and enjoy the calm countryside setting.