The Peak District is one of the most beautiful areas in the UK, boasting dramatic hills, brooding moors and misty forests. But these landscapes aren’t all the district has to offer – it’s also home to many charming towns and villages. Here we round up the most picturesque ones.
Ask any local to name the most beautiful villages in the Peaks, and chances are that Ashford-in-the-Water will be on their list. It may not be one of the most well-known villages, but its stone houses, 13th-century church and ancient bridge over the River Wye are all reasons enough to visit this charming little town.
Eyam
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Jacob Amson / Unsplash
The small town of Eyam is steeped in history. For example, when the bubonic plague was brought into the town, the villagers decided to quarantine themselves rather than risk spreading the disease elsewhere in the region. Nowadays, the town is far from macabre, with rows of stone cottages displaying colourful gardens filled with flowers and ornaments that captivate visitors’ attention.
Castleton
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Tomasz Tomal / Unsplash
Castleton is set in the Hope Valley among spectacular surroundings. Mam Tor and Winnat’s Pass provide spectacular vistas, and the village itself is lined with quaint old stone houses and numerous traditional pubs. Many of these are set back from the main road that snakes through the centre of town, perched on the hillside or with back doors opening up to a tranquil little stream that trickles downhill.
Bakewell
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Known as the heart of the Peak District, Bakewell is another picturesque town set on the banks of the River Wye. Take a walk along the river to admire the views of the town from the water’s edge, delighting in the array of greenery that covers the banks. The grand old stone buildings throughout the town are home to many independent shops and cafes.
Edale
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Felix / Unsplash
If you decide to walk the Pennine Way, Edale will be your first glimpse of the Peak District. This charming little village with a population of just over 300 is also the start of the walk up Kinder Scout, so you are likely to see hordes of hikers warming up by the fire in the Old Nag’s Head, a quaint pub located just after the church. Take the time to stroll through the small settlement to admire the pretty houses before setting off on your hike.
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Tissington
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The entrance to the charming village of Tissington is lined with ancient lime trees, giving way to quaint limestone cottages with perfectly manicured gardens. Throughout the town, visitors will find beauty and charm, but if you visit on or shortly after Ascension Day, take the time to seek out the village wells, which are dressed with beautiful displays of flower petals for a local tradition.
Youlgrave
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Youlgrave is another little-known village that’s a great option for anyone looking to avoid the crowds that fill Castleton and Bakewell on fine days. Located between two scenic rivers, the town boasts many rows of traditional cottages, a couple of quaint pubs and a particularly beautiful church.
Hathersage is a quaint and beautiful little village with incredible walking links to some of the best hikes in Yorkshire. Locaed in the east of Hope Valley, this Yorkshire village is brimming with character hosting a great selection of shops, pubs, restaurants and places to stay. Hathersage is also known and loved by locals for it’s community Lido, with people travelling to the town for their evening Lido sessions.
Based in the north of England, Emma Lavelle is a freelance writer and keen photographer with an endless wanderlust. Read about her latest travels on www.fieldandnest.com or on Instagram @fieldandnest
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