The Peak District is the oldest national park in England and is famous for its scenic walks, quaint villages, and laid-back locals. It’s the ideal escape if you’re dreaming of getting out into nature.
Despite the name, it isn’t that mountainous, with many of the hills fairly easy to walk up. This makes it an attractive option for city slickers and families looking for an adventurous holiday without the strenuous climbs.
The boundaries of the Peak District are a bit blurry. Encompassing the northernmost part of the East Midlands, it’s considered to fit somewhere between Manchester and Sheffield.
This broad definition can make figuring out where to stay in the Peak District a bit tricky. How can you possibly know where the best scenery, walks, and villages are?
Thankfully, I’m here to help! After exploring this beautiful landscape, I’ve compiled the best areas to stay. I’ve categorised them by interest to make your life a bit easier. Whether you want charming towns, mesmerizing vistas or raucous country pubs, I’ve got you covered.
So let’s jump right into it!
- Where to Stay in Peak District
- Peak District Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Peak District
- 5 Best Places to Stay in the Peak District
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Peak District
- What To Pack For Peak District
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Peak District
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in the Peak District
Bringing a car? The Peak District is one of the most popular destinations in England, meaning it’s very easy to get around. If you don’t mind which village you end up staying in, these are our top overall picks for accommodation!
Foxlow Coach House | Luxury Bed and Breakfast in the Peak District
As one of the few five-star hotels in the Peak District, it’s no wonder Foxlow Coach House takes our top spot for B&Bs! The idyllic setting on the outskirts of Buxton makes this the perfect choice for a quaint country retreat in the heart of the Midlands. It also comes with exceptional reviews thanks to the above-and-beyond levels of service and stunning interiors.
Haddy’s Hut | Spacious Shepherd’s Hut in the Peak District
This retreat is an excellent choice for a romantic Peak District getaway. The charming interior creates a warm and inviting atmosphere where you can relax after a long day of exploring the Peak District. It’s situated on a working farm, so you’ll also get a little taste of rural England during your stay. Pop the kettle on, light the fire, and put your feet up!
The Old Sawmill | Modern Cottage in the Peak District
As you’ll see in the rest of this guide, the Peak District is packed with stunning conversions and cottages! The Old Sawmill is our top pick;its beautiful balance of traditional interiors and modern furnishings create a stylish yet cozy vibe. Nestled in the center of Bakewell, you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous views of the river.
Buxton
Buxton is the largest town in the Peak District, making it the most popular destination for visitors during the peak season. This means it’s full of great things to do, delectable restaurants, and quaint little cafés.
Castleton
Looking for something a bit more authentic? Castleton is a quaint little village right in the heart of the Peak District! For families, it offers an easy-going alternative to the bigger towns on the edges of the region.
Edale
Just north of Castleton, Edale has the same village atmosphere but (surprisingly) doesn’t get the same tourist numbers. This makes it the perfect choice for those that want to get away from it all!
Glossop
Officially outside the Peak District national park, Glossop lies right on the boundary of this beautiful region. For those on a budget, this distinction means the town’s accommodation and dining options are a little kinder on the wallet!
Bakewell
You know Bakewell Tarts? You’ve got this small Peak District village to thank for the world-famous treat! You’ll be bombarded with local cafés and bakeries all claiming to be home to the delicious dessert.
5 Best Places to Stay in the Peak District
The Peak District is a diverse destination; each town and village has something unique to offer. Read on for our top five picks across the region – including our favorite accommodation and activities in each!
1. Buxton – Overall Best Place to Stay in the Peak District
Buxton is the largest town in the Peak District, making it the most popular destination for visitors during the peak season. This means it’s full of great things to do, delectable restaurants, and quaint little cafés. As an ancient spa town, it’s also packed with historic attractions just waiting to be discovered.
This town is the home of Buxton Mineral Water. Even during the busy tourist season, the laid-back atmosphere of the town is infectious and will wash all your worries away. For first time visitors, this is a great starting point.
Foxlow Coach House | Charming Bed and Breakfast in Buxton
Relish in the luxury of this five-star bed and breakfast right on the outskirts of Buxton! A full English breakfast is provided every morning, with vegetarian and vegan options available at request. The spacious interiors combine modern furnishings with traditional features like exposed beams and rustic brickwork. One of the most popular cycle paths in the Peak District runs right outside the property
Stoneridge | Vast Holiday Cottage in Buxton
This gorgeous cottage on the outskirts of Buxton is perfect for those looking to splurge on an idyllic retreat! It can sleep up to nine guests across four bedrooms, making it an excellent choice for larger groups and families heading to the Peak District. Three of the bedrooms also come with their own en-suites, giving the adults a little extra privacy.
South Bank | Luxurious Apartment in Buxton
This stunning Georgian apartment is a great way to experience Buxton in style! It comes with mesmerizing views of the town centre, as well as south-facing windows that let in plenty of light. The quaint foliage surrounding the house gives it a rural cottage vibe, while the modern interiors ensure you won’t miss out on your home comforts.
Things to See and Do in Buxton
- Easily the most scenic way to keep your fitness up, this guided run through the Peak District lets you see the region through the eyes of a local.
- Let the bike do all the work with this fantastic electric mountain biking experience through the region with a local guide – starting from Central Buxton!
- The Royal Crescent is home to a water well, where you can sample the famous Buxton Mineral Water totally free of charge!
- Poole’s Cavern is a popular cave just south of the city. There’s also a gorgeous forest nearby that makes for a great walk.
- Buxton Brewery Taphouse and Cellar is our favorite bar in the Peak District, thanks to the gorgeous craft brews and ambient vibes.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Castleton – Idyllic Location in the Peak District for Families
Looking for something a bit more authentic? Castleton is a quaint little village right in the heart of the Peak District! For families, it offers an easy-going alternative to the bigger towns on the edges of the region. It’s still popular with tourists, but the limited accommodation makes it a rural idyll in the evenings.
Dating back to the medieval era, Castleton’s streets are oozing with history. You’ll also find the accommodation options here are housed within converted buildings, connecting you to the village’s past. Many of the best walks in the Peak District pass through Castleton, including some of the easier, kid-friendly options.
Dunscar Farm | Rural Bed and Breakfast in Castleton
This charming little farm stay takes the form of a bed and breakfast – so you get to enjoy a little extra comfort! It comes with excellent reviews thanks to the unbeatable Full English breakfast they provide every morning. It is a little bit outside Castleton, but with plenty of gorgeous walks nearby there’ll be no shortage of things to do.
Mill Leat | Inviting Cottage in Castleton
Sleeping up to four guests, this is our top pick for families staying in the area! It comes with traditional furnishings and a façade that’ll take you right back to Old England. It even has a spacious private bicycle storage unit in the garden. This cozy little cottage is the perfect retreat to unwind in after a long day of exploring.
Haddy’s Hut | Unique Hideaway in Castleton
This adorable little hut is located on a farm, so you get to enjoy a more authentic side of rural English life. There’s a small log burner within the cabin – perfect for building a cozy atmosphere during the colder months. It has been awarded gold certification by Visit England, the country’s official tourist board, so quality is guaranteed.
Things to See and Do in Castleton
- Hop on the train to nearby Hope Valley to participate in this unbeatable vintage bike tour of the Peak District.
- Castleton is home to four ancient caves. We love the guided river trip through Speedwell, but head to Peak Cavern if you want something more laid back.
- Looking for an easy hike that the whole family can join? Look no further than Mam Tor, a charming walk with gorgeous views at the top.
- Peveril Castle was the home of William the Conqueror’s son. It’s a perfect day out for history lovers, and the castle ruins provide an atmospheric setting for photos.
- Visit Ye Olde Nags Head for a medieval drinking and dining experience. Alongside their amazing Sunday roasts, their highlights include beer tasting trays for adults, and a great food menu for kids.
3. Edale – Best Place to Stay in the Peak District for Hiking
Just north of Castleton, Edale has the same village atmosphere without the high tourist numbers. This makes it the perfect choice for those that want to get away from it all! It’s also a major stop on the Pennine Way, so it is an absolute must-see for hikers and ramblers.
Despite its small size, we reckon Edale is the most convenient place to stay in the Peak District National Park. Not only is it a stopover point for the most popular hike, but it’s also well-connected to the surrounding areas by train – why not spend a weekend in Liverpool while you’re up there!
The Old Winery | Charming Loft in Edale
Another gorgeous conversion, this secluded little loft used to be a winery! It is located right in the heart of Edale, so you’ll be able to walk to the nearest bars, restaurants, and boutiques without any hassle. Interiors are contemporary, with a hint of tradition to add that Old English charm. We also love the outdoor patio surrounded by trees and nature.
Mam Tor | Mesmerizing Loft in Edale
Looking for something a bit more upscale? This stunning loft conversion, with its luxurious furnishings and exposed rustic beams, boasts gorgeous views of Edale and the surrounding hillsides. The famous Pennine Way is right outside your doorstep – as well as a few pubs!
Grindsbrook Barns | Quintessential Barn Conversion in Edale
With the train station only a short walk away, this charming little holiday home is perfect for getting around the region with ease. The conversion contains two barns side by side, each sleeping up to two people. There’s an idyllic picnic and barbecue area for summer, and a cosy stove inside for colder winter days.
Things to See and Do in Edale
- Edale Moorland Centre is a must-go for those interested in the history and natural heritage of the surrounding moors.
- Take a trip up Jacob’s Ladder. It’s a challenging climb, but with the right hiking boots and rewarding panoramic vistas, you won’t notice a thing.
- Fancy checking out Castleton while you’re there? Take the hiking trail via Mam Tor and catch some stunning views on the way.
- The Church of the Holy Undivided Trinity is a gothic architectural gem located on the road between Castleton and Edale, and is definitely worth a visit.
- The Rambler Inn is a gorgeous little pub in the heart of town that’s as popular with the locals, as it is with the hiking crowd making a stopover from the Pennine Way.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Glossop – Where to Stay in the Peak District on a Budget
Officially outside the Peak District national park, Glossop lies right on the boundary of this beautiful region. For those on a budget, this distinction means the town’s accommodation and dining options are a little kinder on the wallet!
It’s also well-connected to further afield in England and with so many things to do in Manchester it’s definitely worth a visit. If you’re planning a longer trip around the North and Midlands, Glossop is well worth a few days stopover. It also has fast connections onwards to Edale and Sheffield.
The Bulls Head | Traditional Hotel in Glossop
Fancy staying in a traditional English inn? Make a beeline for the Bulls Head, right in the heart of Glossop! There’s an attached bar that is popular with visitors and locals alike. Rooms are pretty basic, but with great prices, they are an excellent choice for those on a budget. You even get a Full English breakfast included in the rate!
Woodcock Farm | Quaint Pied-à-Terre in Glossop
This stunning converted barn in the heart of a farm dating back to the 18th Century is as quintessentially English as it gets! It comes with gorgeous views over Glossop Golf Course, which is only a short walk away. They accept small dogs, making it the perfect choice for couples who want to bring Fido along.
The Smithy | Budget Cottage in Glossop
This beautiful little cottage offers budget-friendly Peak District accommodation – not that you’ll be able to tell once you get there! The quirky grass roof gives it an eco-friendly edge, giving guests the opportunity to truly connect with nature. Inside, you will find hand-carved furniture and fittings, as well as a cozy log burner.
Things to See and Do in Glossop
- Environmentally conscious travelers will adore this unique smallholding tour where you can learn about horticulture, beekeeping, and how to live a sustainable lifestyle.
- The Longdendale Trail offers a unique hike along an abandoned railway line; it also has a cycle route.
- Old Glossop is the historic center of the town, with charming architecture and a leafy park on the outskirts.
- High Street West is the best shopping area in the Peak District, with a great blend of local boutiques and high street favorites.
- Desperate for some great vegan food? The Globe makes some gorgeous plant-based versions of typical pub grub.
5. Bakewell – Coolest Place to Stay in the Peak District
You know Bakewell Tarts? You’ve got this small Peak District village to thank for the world-famous treat! You’ll be bombarded with local cafés and bakeries all claiming to be home to the delicious dessert. We don’t know who’s telling the truth, but there’s only one way to find out.
Pastries aside (though what more could you want?), Bakewell is a charming village with a long and rich history. Known as a market town, it has a friendly local vibe and is a great spot to unwind in the heart of the national park.
Riverview | Scenic Apartment in Bakewell
This rustic little flat is housed within a converted mill! The spacious interiors create a calm and relaxing space where you can soak up the laid-back Bakewell vibes. Drawing upon Nordic design, the furnishings are modern while still paying respect to the building’s heritage. You can see the River Wye from the window, as well as the stunning town center.
Stone Cottage | Old English Charm in Bakewell
Known as Butts Terrace, this quaint little cottage has a gorgeous stone façade to transport you back to the olden days. The interiors are spacious and let in plenty of natural light. There is also a stunning garden around the back with a small seating area where you can admire the calm vibes over a glass…or bottle…of wine.
The Old Sawmill | Contemporary Conversion in Bakewell
This stylish former sawmill is the perfect way to experience a little slice of Bakewell history! It sleeps up to six guests across three bedrooms – perfect for larger families heading to the area. The Bakewell Visitor Centre is only a short walk away, as are some of the best bars, restaurants, and cafés in the Peak District.
Things to See and Do in Bakewell
- Foraging is a really popular activity in the Lake District – try it out with this guided tour from a local herb expert.
- There is another excellent vintage bike tour only a short train ride away from Bakewell – take in the gorgeous neighboring village on this half-day excursion.
- The town center is packed with stunning architecture and quirky boutiques; there’s even a small museum dedicated to the local history.
- We’re not going to play favorites with the Bakewell tarts, so our culinary pick for the village is the Rutland Arms Hotel – offering modern takes on classic British cuisine.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Peak District
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Peak District and where to stay.
What To Pack For Peak District
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Peak District
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in the Peak District
Gorgeous countryside scenery, interesting heritage and laid-back villages make the Peak District the perfect destination to take a step back from it all! Staycations are a great way to enjoy a hassle-free break, so why not tick the Peak District off your list? No matter what time of year you decide to go, you won’t be disappointed.
There’s no doubt that the English countryside is beautiful whether in sun, rain or snow. If it’s likely to influence your trip, make sure to check out the weather before your visit.
If we had to pick our favorite place, Edale would top the list! It’s well connected to most other destinations by train and is home to our favorite hiking trails. Don’t forget that, first and foremost, the Peak District is a walking destination, and Edale has some cute little pubs to rest in after your hike.
That being said, each village comes with its own charms. The Peak District is full of amazing options to suit any kind traveller – including those backpacking in the UK – and we hope that this guide has helped you narrow down your options.
Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around UK.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in UK.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Europe.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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