Peak District Holiday Cottages & Lodges

You can reach the Peak District quickly and easily by train from neighbouring cities like Manchester, Sheffield, and Derby. From the south, the photogenic Derwent Valley Line runs from Derby to Matlock, while the spectacular Hope Valley Line connects Manchester and Sheffield through the north of Peak District National Park, stopping in several picturesque villages within the Hope, Derwent, and Edale Valleys. West of the national park, you can get a train from Manchester straight to Glossop or Buxton, and go on from there.

However, the best way to reach a cosy hideaway in the Peak District and have more freedom to explore is by car. If you want to take the train as far as possible, there are car hire companies in Glossop, Matlock, and Buxton at the edge of the national park. If driving from further afield, the M1 and the M6 provide easy access to the Peak District from either north or south. The centre of the Peak District National Park is less than 90min from Manchester City Centre, 45min from Sheffield, or an hour's drive from either Derby, Nottingham, or Stoke-on-Trent.

A cottage holiday in the Peak District doubles as a delicious food escape. Enjoy homely pubs, cute cafes, farmers markets, and highly renowned fine-dining restaurants showcasing the rich array of quality local produce. The chic Cocina at Casa Hotel is one such establishment, while the elegant, award-winning East Lodge Restaurant in Matlock presents traditional British fare. The Dining Hall at the World of Wedgwood offers contemporary cuisine based on the original Barlaston workers' canteen, which is served, of course, on the finest Wedgwood china. Head to The Cow at Dalbury Lees for an exquisite, award-winning luxury gastropub dinner, or visit the authentic old Roston Inn for an honest, hearty pub meal.

You shouldn't leave the Peak District without trying some of its many iconic local products. Top of the bill are Bakewell Tart and Bakewell Pudding, from the picturesque old market town of Bakewell on the River Wye. Buxton Pudding is another delectable local dessert. And no self-respecting gingerbread lover would miss a trip to Ashbourne to try its famous, treacle-filled treats at the Ashbourne Gingerbread Shop, which dates back to 1492. You'll find these tasty baked goods, along with fresh local produce, at bustling farmers markets every week or month in the towns of Buxton, Leek, Hathersage, Chesterfield, Wirksworth, Bakewell, Belper, Matlock, and Swadlincote.

Situated just outside the charming town of Buxton, Lyme Hall is the stately home was featured in the BBC's Pride and Prejudice. Take a stroll around its lavish gardens like Elizabeth Bennet, or marvel at the house's vast collection of art work and sculptures.

The Buxton Opera House is at the heart of the town. It regularly plays host to national touring operas like Tosca, and musicals such as Footloose. Their winter calendar features an array of pantomimes suitable for the whole family.

Delve underground and explore the caves at Poole's Cavern. With frequent tours, you and your family can become intrepid adventurers for the afternoon.

Get close to all of your favourite animals at Peak Wildlife Park. Whether it's helping the park keepers at feeding time, or playing with a Humboldt penguin, it's bound to be a day the kids won't forget. If you plan on sticking around, a Peak Season Pass offers unlimited re-entry for a year.

Dovedale is in the midst of the Peak District's rolling hills. Little ones (or the young at heart) can traverse the stepping stones across the River Dove. For avid hikers, the trail up to Thorpe Cloud hill begins at the car park. At its peak expect spectacular views across Derbyshire.

The idyllic Monsal trail is 8.5 miles long and runs from Bakewell to just east of Buxton. It's a great day out for a leisurely walk or an adventurous afternoon of cycling with the family. Bikes can be rented at the beginning of the trail.