The Most Beautiful Villages In England's Peak District

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.

1. Ashford-in-the-Water

Natural Feature

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.

2. Eyam

Natural Feature

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.

3. Castleton

Natural Feature

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.

5. Edale

Natural Feature

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.

6. Tissington

Natural Feature

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.

7. Youlgrave

Natural Feature

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.

Christina Collins contributed additional reporting to this article.

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