Cruising the Peaks: A Road Trip Through the Heart of the Peak District + Map 🚗
If you’re craving big skies, winding country roads, and the kind of views that make you pull over just to say “wow”, the Peak District is calling. This road trip winds through dramatic moorland, storybook villages, ancient caves, and hilltop walks that’ll make you feel like you’re on top of the world (because, in the Peaks, you kind of are). Whether you’re a hardcore hiker, a cosy pub-lover, or just in it for the scenery, this route’s packed with stops that’ll have you falling head over walking boots for one of England’s most iconic national parks. Let’s hit the road. 🚗⛰️
Peak District Road Trip
Hit the road through one of England’s most iconic national parks. From stately homes to secret caves and sweeping views, this route is perfect for anyone craving a bit of nature, history, and hearty pub lunches.
📍 Castleton – Kick things off in this cosy little village surrounded by hills and caves. Explore Peak Cavern (a.k.a. The Devil’s Arse — yes, really) or brave a tour down Speedwell Cavern via an underground boat.
📍 Mam Tor – Just up the road from Castleton, park up and hike this iconic ridge. It’s a fairly easy walk with panoramic views for days — one of the best photo spots in the Peaks.
📍 Edale – Next up, drive over to this gorgeous valley village — a gateway to the Kinder Scout plateau (the highest point in the Peak District) and the start of the Pennine Way. Great for walking or just relaxing with a pint.
📍 Hope Valley – Cruise through the valley for views of stone cottages, green hills, and maybe a few sheep traffic jams. It’s pure Peak District charm.
📍 Bamford & Ladybower Reservoir – Stop for a lakeside wander at this stunning spot. It’s got peaceful walking trails, dramatic bridges, and a fascinating wartime history (hello, Dambusters!).
📍 Stanage Edge – Channel your inner rock climber (or just admire the pros) at this legendary gritstone escarpment. It’s a short hike to the top with epic views, especially at sunset.
📍 Hathersage – Swing by this lively village for a proper pub lunch or visit Little John’s grave (yep, as in Robin Hood’s mate). There’s also an outdoor swimming pool if you’re brave enough.
📍 Chatsworth House – Drive down through the countryside to this grand stately home — think Pride & Prejudice vibes, fancy gardens, and a proper afternoon tea. Even the deer in the parkland look posh.
📍 Bakewell – End on a sweet note in the home of the famous Bakewell Tart (or technically, Pudding — locals are picky). It’s a picturesque market town with cute shops, riverside walks, and serious cake.
🚗 Total Distance: Approx. 70 miles
🕰️ Recommended Time: One full day with an early start – or stretch it to 2 days if you fancy a slower pace and a few pub stops.
📸 Perfect For: First-timers, weekend wanderers, nature lovers, photographers, or anyone who just wants to soak up the Peaks without stressing the sat nav.
Access to the map
No sign up required and totally FREE. Literally just using Google Maps to plot your route! Saves you messing! We don't gatekeep here! Enjoy.
Map will be located under "YOU" and then under "MAPS".
ℹ️ Add the map to your Google Maps app.
After opening Google maps, click YOU and then scroll down to MAPS. It should be located there. Any issues, just get it touch, it’s no problem!
Additional Information & Highlights
Castleton
A charming village tucked between hills and caves, right in the heart of the Peak District.
🗺️ Things To Do:
- Explore Peak Cavern (aka The Devil’s Arse — unforgettable name, unforgettable experience)
- Take a boat tour through Speedwell Cavern
- Walk up to Peveril Castle for epic valley views
- Enjoy a classic pub lunch in one of the cosy locals
💡 My Top Tip: Arrive early if you’re driving — parking fills up fast, especially on weekends. Grab a coffee and cake from one of the tearooms before tackling any caves or hills.
Mam Tor
Known as the “Shivering Mountain,” this is one of the best short hikes in the UK, with views that punch way above the effort level.
🗺️ Things To Do:
- Walk the circular route around Mam Tor and The Great Ridge
- Take photos from the summit (especially stunning at sunrise)
- Spot paragliders on windy days — it’s a popular launch point
- Picnic with a view
💡 My Top Tip: If the Mam Nick car park is full, park in Castleton and hike up — it’s a bit longer but less stressful than circling for a spot like a hawk.
Recommended Tours and Tickets From Get Your Guide
Bakewell
A postcard-worthy market town famous for its sweet treats and riverside charm.
🗺️ Things To Do:
- Try an authentic Bakewell Pudding (not to be confused with the tart!)
- Stroll along the River Wye and snap a pic at the love lock bridge
- Visit Bakewell Old House Museum for a bit of history
- Potter around the independent shops and cafés
💡 My Top Tip: Pop into The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop and grab a warm pudding to go — totally worth it, especially on a chilly day.
Chatsworth House
A jaw-dropping stately home set in vast parkland — think grand interiors, landscaped gardens, and plenty of Pride & Prejudice energy.
🗺️ Things To Do:
- Tour the house and admire the art collection
- Wander the huge gardens (there’s a maze and a rock garden!)
- Say hi to the animals at the farmyard if you’ve got little ones
- Enjoy a fancy afternoon tea or a picnic by the river
💡 My Top Tip: Book tickets online in advance — and don’t skip the garden walk, even if you’re not into plants. The views alone are worth the entry.
Access to the map
No sign up required and totally FREE. Literally just using Google Maps to plot your route! Saves you messing! We don't gatekeep here! Enjoy.
Travel Planning Resources
Ready to book your next trip? These trusted resources have been personally vetted to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Book Your Flights: Kick off your travel planning by finding the best flight deals on Trip.com. Our years of experience with them confirm they offer the most competitive prices.
Book Your Hotel: For the best hotel rates, use Booking.com . For the best and safest hostels, HostelWorld.com is your go-to resource. Best for overall Hotel ratings and bargains, use TripAdvisor.com!
Find Apartment Rentals: For affordable apartment rentals, check out VRBO. They consistently offer the best prices.
Car Rentals: For affordable car rentals, check out RentalCars.com. They offer the best cars, mostly brand new.
Travel Insurance: Never travel without insurance. Here are our top recommendations:
- EKTA for Travel Insurance for all areas!
- Use AirHelp for compensation claims against flight delays etc.
Book Your Activities: Discover walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more on Get Your Guide. They have a vast selection of activities to enhance your trip. There is also Tiqets.com for instant mobile tickets.
Book The Best Trains: Use Trainline to find the most affordable trains or Rail Europe for rail passes!
Travel E-SIMS: Airalo Worldwide! Use your mobile phone anywhere!
Need More Help Planning Your Trip? Visit our Resources Page to see all the companies we trust and use for our travels.
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Nick Harvey
Hi, I am Nick! Thank you for reading! The Travel Tinker is a resource designed to help you navigate the beauty of travel! Tinkering your plans as you browse!
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