The 29 best free attractions in Peak District National Park

Had a fantastic day here. The staff were fantastic. The in character staff were amazing and so friendly and knowledgeable. Special shout goes to Mel who showed us round one of the caves. She was fantastic and a real credit to you. So funny and knowledgable. There’s lots to do up there. The cable car ride is great. 2 caves to tour and plenty of fun for the kids on the play grounds. The cafe was brilliant. Had a lovely panini in there and some lovely cake. We came on a weekday outside of the school holidays and didn’t have to wait for anything. Lots of walking to be done and some is rather steep.

We had an absolutely wonderful experience here today. It was our first time visiting and had no idea what to expect, but what a day we had. I’ve come to write a review because I want to give recognition to Lorin, the lovely guy that did our Cavern tour. He was so helpful, approachable, and even took the time out to stay back and show us some fossils in the final cavern, because my autistic son’s special interest is dinosaurs. He was brilliant with both of my children and made the tour really quite special. Give this man a raise immediately HoA! 🥲🤣

Great couple of hours at least spent with great views . The Cave experience is informative and interesting. The cafe is very good with great selection at reasonable prices. parking is in the station carpark payable . Blue badge holders can pay for time and get an hour ontop free. It is a short walk to the cable car ticket office. Just be aware that the last 150yard to Ticket office is steep.

EXCELLENT! This is an interesting way to spend the day on your holiday! Excellent, very well manned cable carts to take you to the hill/mountain? At the top, you’re instantly met with more helpful staff full of information on where to go and what you can do. There’s two caves, both equally interesting totally made by the excellent curation and delivery or stories by the guides (Jordan and Bessie were first class). There’s two excellent play areas suitable for most ages (above toddler I think). Fabulous cafe, where we had excellent service by Sue plus the views were spectacular! I was super impressed they had a variety of gluten free vegan cakes (that were not the usual boring brownies!). They also had two bars ( one is the oldest licensed bar in Matlock). There’s also a Wombles building, a couple of lovely gift shops, lots of information, a pizza van and more. The views are incredible. Overall, this is great value for money and something the children will not forget.

Excellent place for the kids day out. Lots things to do and see. Nice cafe and play ground. Stunning views during the cable car and from the top. Most amazing mining tunnels and the guide was excellent

Heights of Abraham is a fantastic family destination—perfect for both toddlers and older kids, with plenty of land to explore, play areas, and exhibits to keep everyone entertained. We especially enjoyed the Wombles exhibition—it was fun and whimsical, and offered something a bit different. The views from the hilltop are absolutely lovely, trampling over the Derwent Valley and surrounding countryside, making the cable car ride all the more magical. The food was okay, but nothing to write home about—not quite matching the beauty of the surroundings. I was also disappointed that they didn’t have a chai latte on the drinks menu, and vegan soft serve ice cream wasn’t available—both would have been great choices to round off a lovely day. Admission is on the steep side: adult tickets cost about £25 online or £28.50 at the gate  . It felt quite expensive, especially for a shorter visit, but with a longer stay it might be more justifiable. Overall, it’s a beautiful and memorable place with a lot to offer families. With improvements to the food and drink options, it would be near-perfect!

Wonderful day out, perfect for dogs also, they are allowed everywhere but caverns and the Vista restaurant. Food a little pricey but picnic tables are everywhere for a packed lunch. The cable car stops half way up for stunning view pictures.

We bought our tickets to the house in advance and I would recommend this as it can get quite busy. I visited with my Nan who uses a walker and the staff couldn't have done more to help her. She was escorted to lifts which meant she didn't miss a thing. Several times she was asked if she'd like a buggy ride to different parts of the estate, but even being a little frail she managed to walk most places with her walker. Overall we loved our visit. The food we had, although quite expensive, was well worth it and very delicious! The sights we saw were amazing. The house and grounds are kept immaculately and we enjoyed learning about the history of the estate. We were there for 5 hours and still didn't get to see everything, but then we weren't in a rush. Oh and cute cats in the kitchen garden are a bonus too! I loved being able to fuss them. I would definitely recommend a visit.

An absolutely gorgeous house and gardens. We had lunch in the stable block. Then went a bit crazy in the orangery gift shop buying Christmas decorations. Each room of the house is very grand and opulent. Stunning. It has to be one of the nicest houses I have ever visited.

We enjoy visiting Chatsworth House. This time an art exhibition was on display, which changed the experience in a positive way. We don’t always get to see the animals, but we were able to this time around. The weather was great. The staff were helpful. We had a poke around the shops. A lovely day out. I would recommend to anyone, especially if you haven’t been before

Amazing place. Really beautiful, grand, elegant and steeped in history. A definite place to visit if you are nearby. I can imagine it gets very busy at weekends or school holidays so it you can go during the week off peak. Plenty to see and do and the gardens are huge. I was expecting it to be good but it exceeded my expectations. The price you pay is very reasonable for what you get access too. The gardens are also dog friendly. There is plenty of parking and you can pay for tickets once you have parked up, no need to book in advance. Would happily go back and do it all again.

The bonfire and fireworks event was amazing! A few tips for anyone planning to attend next year: bring waterproof boots, as the garden can get muddy if it rains, and a warm puffer jacket will keep you comfortable throughout the night. Parking is free, and there are plenty of food stands, so you won’t have to worry about what to eat.

Very beautiful experience! Unfortunately, it was a bit windy for us to tour the gardens, but the rooms and gallery were exquisite! It was a bit busy with tourists (as it would be), but I appreciated that they stuck to the artifacts and history rather than leaning into the easy tourist trap of Pride & Prejudice (although there is a small share of merchandise dedicated to it). It was a short trip from our stay in Peak National Park and the drive is really stunning.

Incredible estate house. Make sure you get audio guide and also talk to staff in every room. Beautiful garden, worth walking to the hunting tower. A good choice of places to stop for a snack and coffee.

Nice places to walk in the summer. Good car park but can be busy so get their early. Nice little cafe with friendly staff. Enjoyed a jacket potato at lunch time with a big helping of coleslaw and cheese. Few benches located just opposite the cafe where we sat and enjoy the food and drinks. The visitor center was sticky to find as listed as the visitor centre not the actual reservoir on maps. Recommended for amazing views of North Derbyshire.

Great walk. Take prams if you have small kids. Serene and peaceful.

Did the lost village Trail and a lovely walk it is. There is a pathway all way around and therefore good for wheelchairs and prams. Also good route for cyclists and they facilitate to hire bikes. We parked at the Fairhomes carpark which had plenty of facilities ie: public toilets which were very clean. Hiring bikes and a kiosk to purchase food, drinks and ice creams etc The beautiful weather was an added bonus and we wasn’t too hot as most of the walk you are shaded with the trees etc

Lovely place.... Very quite and peaceful. Good for runners and cyclitis

Ladybower Reservoir is an amazing place to come for people of all ages and abilities. Even if you just drive through the area the views are stunning. The area is surrounded by some amazing walks around the hills for those that are more adventurous and some easier walks around the reservoir itself that are suitable for the less mobile. If you catch it right for parking, there are areas where you can sit and admire the views. The area is forever changing with the seasons and weather so each visit is different.

Beautiful views, lovely walk, weather was brutal but that's what you get when you go out with no gloves on. Shame about the water been so low you couldn't see it fall into the overflows but I've seen it before so I wasn't too fussed. More than likely to go again 🙂

Plenty of routes to take. I have done a different route every time. Win hill has fantastic 360° views. The forest looked magical & ancient. Apparently when there is a drought you can see the foundation of the village in the reservoir. Still plenty to see I haven't covered yet.

Beautiful gardens with free street parking if you can find it or loads of paid parking either around the town or in the gardens which can be located by the main road. Free public toilets, a small railway train that goes around the park for £2.50 per person, lasts around 5 minutes and is very cute, allowing you to see and take in the park from different angles. Theres loads of different paths, trees, wildlife and plants, some with information plaques, as well as frequent benches, bins and play parks for the kids. Extremely child, disabled and pet friendly. The streams, ponds and riverways are very well kept, as is the whole park and its lovley to see the ducks and wildlife enjoy it too.

Nice easy walk round a pond. Lots of water birds, ducks ,geese, herons. Quite a bit of duck poo on paths near pond. Nice bar, cafe, swimming pool, music venue.

Love the pavilion gardens here in Buxton. Some nice snack/eateries, locally made beers and I particularly like the "hot house" garden, and walking around the park.

What a lovely and unique place. We walked around gardens for a bit, lots of wild birds, small water lakes, had live music playing, which made atmosphere really nice.

Disability freindly in most of Buxton pavilion.Family freindly clean beautiful park and buildings, small train ride in the park lots of geese and other birds in the park.a small river running through the park.you have Buxton opera house with a tea room and inside garden area.not far away is the famous Buxton spring water well you can use your own bottle and fill it for free.You could have a full day out here all while including a day at the opera.

Absolutely stunning area. Great park with wide clean pathways. Plenty of wildlife around. Lovely facilities in the pavilion

Beautiful, well maintained gardens and old heritage buildings. Would be lovely to see more of the Pavilion buildings themselves open and used though.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5 A great place for kids and families to enjoy a day out. Most of the rides are short and mainly designed for children, but the overall atmosphere is fun. The roadside views on the way here are amazing, though the uphill journey makes pushing baby strollers a bit challenging. Best to arrive early to make the most of all the rides. A few extras, like having to pay £1 for a park map, didn’t feel like the best first impression. Still, overall, it’s a lovely family-friendly destination with plenty for kids to enjoy.

We enjoyed it today. Positives - booked online and took advantage of a 'secret deal'. Perfect for younger kids. No rides really too extreme and we got on almost everything. The tree top drop ride and the lost world raft ride were both really good fun. Got on the log flume three times, which we loved. Most of the staff were pleasant enough. The ski lift team were really nice and made an effort to welcome you on. Parking was fine although via a very steep, windy drive up and with cars queing to get parked you could smell clutches burning everywhere 😂 but there was an entrance into the park near the top for those parking which was decent. Negatives - Not much really. We waited in line for my little girl to go on the rock climb wall, behind a small group of girls, and we were the very next in line (and the only ones left in the queue) and they shut it because they 'only run one or the other' The other being a little toddler activity course in the same spot. When we queued both were in action. They could have let her have a go, bit annoying. Some of the attractions are a bit of a let down, the ghost house for example, and the dragons lair are a few mins each that you won't get back. Pointless walkarounds with nothing in them. Those aside, overall a decent day out and fairly priced, and I'm sure we'll probably go back before she gets too big for most of the rides. Point to note: if your not good at walking up and down steep hills, this place isn't for you. It's literally built on a hillside. You have the ski lifts which will take you up and down but expect a fair wait for one. For us, we did both and were fine with the gradients.

Great for the kids and the landscape is beautiful. The guys and gals working there were all polite and ready to help in anyway they can. Just a little mention to disabled people come fully prepared as it really is hard graft getting around because of the steep landscape.

Great day out for the younger kids, we really enjoyed the rides. The wait times weren't as bad as the bigger parks. Food wasn't overly priced and good portions. The hills there could be an issue for those with mobility issues or walking with bulky buggies/prams.

We had such an amazing time here, I was really impressed! We arrived at 12 and it closed at 5 and that was just enough time! We got on everything quickly and managed to do my daughter's favourite rides quite a few times! It's set amongst beautiful scenery, my 4 year old could go on nearly everything, and the car park is free!

Much better place than I thought. Adults can have fun with the kids too. Kids absolutely loved it. Area is beautiful too. Parking wise you need to get there early to find place at the bottom. I think it is better to start your journey in Gulliver's Kingdom from the bottom entry.

Lovely place for kids, from rides, activities, climbing ropes and lift chairs. Children loved it. Smaller rides for them to enjoy. The only set back was the height levels of rides. It was very steep going to different rides. I did see dome parents with pushchairs struggling. Not suitable for wheelchair, in my opjnion

One of the most extraordinary places, not just in the Peak District, but on the entire island. An incredible gorge covered in vegetation creates an atmosphere straight out of a movie or video game. You'll feel like you're exploring some exotic part of the world in central England. The hike and access aren't difficult, and the views along the way are an additional reward for those seeking the island's beauty.

Amazing place to go Took our 2 year old who loved all the climbing. Took us 3 and half hours to walk round 3/4 of the place. Will returning Not wheelchair/pushchair friendly No toilets There is an ice cream van- sells - ice creams, hot and cold drinks

Amazingly atmospheric narrow steep sided chasm formed by a landslip, situated around a 15-20 minute walk from Bearstone Rock and the northern end of the Roaches. Lud's Church isn't the easiest to access, involving a fairly steep and slippery descent, but it's worth the effort for the mystical atmosphere within the little gorge. Mosses coat the dark rocky walls, while trees overhanging the sides make for interesting views skywards. Combine with a walk along the top of the Roaches for some dramatic contrasts in scenery. There's a small amount of free roadside parking not far from Bearstone Rock.

What a beautiful short hike to take on a weekend. It had beautiful views, peaceful and not crowded. Went when the temperature was about 17 C and was just about perfect. Make sure to wear proper hiking boots to navigate Luds Church as it can be rocky and slippery. Good for families. Highly recommended.

Awesome place. And how quick the weather can change! But walking across the Roaches you can see it coming. Few people there but hey ho, why not. With cameras now you can take a pic, remove everyone you don't want on there making it look like it's just you. TIP FOR IPHONE USERS ( Me being Google Android 💪🏼) Use Panoramic setting for images so that you can get the subject in and pan up to get the full hight of the sides, looks fantastic.

Lud's Church is an incredible natural wonder that feels both mysterious and awe-inspiring. The deep, moss-covered chasm surrounded by ancient woodland creates a magical atmosphere perfect for hiking and photography. The paths are well-marked, making it accessible for a wide range of walkers, and the sense of history and legend tied to the site adds a unique charm. It is a peaceful escape from the busier tourist spots, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the raw beauty of the landscape while enjoying a tranquil walk through this hidden gem.

Lud's Church is absolutely stunning with tall, mossy walls creating a feeling that you're far from civilisation. I had been wanting to visit for years and finally had the opportunity, and it did not disappoint. It felt just a little bit magical. The air is cool so bring an extra jumper with you. It's so atmospheric and green. Autumn was a great time to visit. I've been told it's a good spot for climbers too. Dogs allowed, although they'll need to be able to jump over large rocks that humans need to clamber a bit over! We visited on a weekday so I imagine it's busier at weekends. The surrounding area is also beautiful. We heard a meadow pipit

Found this when hikes to Deep Dale. Magpie Mine is a well-preserved 19th-century lead mine with a notable industrial history. The original structures such as the Cornish Engine House offers a great experience of history. The mine is open, free to visit, and set in a remote, scenic location. While the terrain may be challenging for some, the site provides an informative glimpse into the region’s mining heritage.

Interesting place. At first the sat nav took us to a farmer’s land to get there but the gate was guarded by a bull watching a lot of sleeping cows - so we thought better of that route. Locals guided us to level access on the other side of the mines. It looked easy and level from there - but we had run out of time to walk it from there.

Exemplary preservation of Derbyshire's most complete lead mine, which had a storied history spanning over 200 years, only closing in the 1950s. The Cornish engine house and chimney stand almost completely intact, and numerous other structures still exist on the site, including winding gear, a circular powder store and a reconstruction horse gin, which would have been used to raise lead ore up to ground level. The site is free to visit any time, though the Agent's House and Smithy are only accessible on Heritage Open Days. Sheer drops are sealed and buildings have been made safe, so there are no restrictions on reasonable access. A number of information boards around the site cover the mine's history in detail. It's one of the best managed industrial heritage sites I've seen. The setting adds to the appeal, the mine sat high in the Peak District overlooking miles of green countryside. There are some fantastic photo opportunities here. There's a small amount of free roadside parking just outside the mine site. Well worth a visit if you're in the area and have even a passing interest in industrial history.

If you like your history I think this is an interesting place to visit. Parking is in a large layby with free access across farm land where sometimes cows roam. Dogs are allowed but must be on lead. There's an information board which explains what the buildings you can see were used for. It's definitely thought provoking as there's still so much standing including the metal cage that the miners used to use to travel into the darkness below. On the day I visited the wind was howling across the open+very remote landscape and you can imagine what life must have been like for those miners back in the days when it was working. It's well preserved at the moment and I really hope that in the years to come there are still these wonderful people around who are looking after this site for future generations,so we may continue to remember what past lives were like.

Fantastic. The mine has several public paths that go through the site so it is easy to visit and see the workings. We were fortunate to have a tour which gave a fascinating insight in to the history of this last working lead mine in Derbyshire, from its 200 years of operation being first recorded in 1740. It has a very chequered history of dodgy dealings, disputes, murder and even a curse! Much of it remains with several capped mineshafts, the ruined Cornish engine house and chimney, a replica horse gin and the winding house square chimney. It's well worth visiting when the very helpful and friendly volunteers are there in the old agents house and smithy, who certainly deserve a generous donation.

Fascinating place with some very good information boards. Easy walk from the parking location.

Midway point on a beautiful 9km hike around Sheldon and Ashford. From one stile to the next gate across the lovely walled pastures. A couple of steep climbs too, but always rewarded with gorgeous views. Interesting history to the lead mines too.

A wonderful location with amazing views. There are several parking spaces available, both free and paid. There are several distinct trails with varying degrees of difficulty, so there is something for everyone. Magnificent views await you when you reach the summit. An ideal location for adventurers and nature enthusiasts!

It was a nice trail but beware of slipping as you would need proper hiking shoes to conquer the full trail. It was very fun but I found myself slipping a bit and didn't make it all the way to the top. The views are a must see and the drive towards it was magnificent would recommend alot.

The Peak District, located in central England, offers a breathtaking mix of rolling hills, limestone valleys, dramatic gritstone edges, and charming villages. With well-marked trails winding through moorlands and past ancient stone walls, it’s a haven for walking, cycling, and nature photography. The area is divided into the Dark Peak, with rugged moorlands and gritstone edges like Stanage and Kinder Scout, and the White Peak, known for its gentler landscape and pretty dales such as Dovedale. Picturesque towns like Bakewell and Castleton add a historic charm, with traditional pubs, local markets, and centuries-old architecture. Stone bridges cross clear streams, and sheep dot the countryside, adding to the peaceful, timeless feel of the region. Whether standing on a windy ridge or strolling through a flower-filled meadow, the views stretch endlessly, offering a deep sense of calm and connection to nature. The changing light, open skies, and rich textures of the landscape make every visit memorable.

A wonderful hiking destination—don't forget your boots due to some pesky plants. The breathtaking views are truly soul-soothing. I highly recommend visiting in the summer or spring for the best experience.

The Peak District, hope valley in central England, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rugged mountains, and picturesque valleys. Its unique blend of rolling hills, moorlands, and towering peaks offers a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers

It’s definitely a lovely day out whether you’re with a group of friends, family, or a group of hikers that love exploring the wilderness. I definitely highly recommend Edale for your mini mountain climbing, that can be quite challenging, just bring the correct footwear, & some hiking sticks for grip

Did a fantastic route starting/ending in Castleton, the loop heads up to mam tor, back tor and lose hill which made for a solid route in approximately 4 hours with the odd stop and look.

I'll start with the car park. It's decent size and well maintained. I completely do not agree with flat rate you have to pay on top of the entry tickets. Regardless if you are there for just couple of hours, half a day or full day, still have to fork out another £12. Park itself is spread out across vast space. There's lots and lots of walking. Rides are decent. Other attractions are good as well. For us it worked out quite expensive as we've come with a child under 2 years old mainly to visit CeBeebies Land. I've managed to pop on some rides when he had a power nap. Overall we've enjoyed our time in there and definitely rate it higher than any other UK theme park. Problem is, once you've been to Universal Orlando and other Florida parks you gonna find all rides in any UK park not as thrilling and stunning as what they have in there. We've found all staff to be friendly, helpful and polite. Cleanliness throughout the park was decent including rest rooms. We've even found a nice kebab takeaway on site which was a plus.

Just spent three days here with my two (13 and 10) on their first visit (and my first for 25+ years!). The theming, cleanliness and organisation of the park was excellent. The layout is big so be prepared for lots of walking! The skyride helps, as does the monorail from the car parks, otherwise that's a good 20 minute walk to the park entrance. All the staff we encountered were very helpful and friendly. Big shout out to Jack, who helped us find our car on the first night when we lost our bearings! The queues are really well managed, all the food was tasty (chicken tikka wrap from opposite Rita highly recommended and the rollercoaster restaurant near Galactica an excellent experience). Don't miss the cute little aquarium near Wicker Man. The water park was great fun too, the slides to outside a big hit and the coaster slide brilliant - worth the wait for sure. The free scare mazes were very good and even the souvenir prices reasonable. The gardens are also brilliantly kept and look great with the autumn colours. Only a few criticisms; lack of hooks on the back of toilet doors for hanging your bag and only cold water to wash your hands in most facilities. Also, the arcades needs some attention (a few had faults/blocked sections and the low end token prizes were limited and too highly priced).

We had an amazing day in Alton towers. We went on a Scare fest event, it was brilliant. I really recommend to download the app to see the waiting times in queue as well as if it’s closed or having a weather delay. It’s good to see every ride update so you don’t make any unnecessary walk. To be honest even the 45mins ques were quick. Staff were very friendly and helpful, food is nice but pricey. Bring comfy shoes and snacks!!! We went for opening which allowed us to go on every main ride. The scare mazes were fantastic, the themes the actors were spot on!!🖤🧡 Both day and night time all the resort looks very stunning with the rides lighted up and the Alton Castle! 🏰 all the park is very looked after. Definitely coming back next year!

Amazing day out at Scare Fest! Really well themed and fun attractions. Haven’t been for almost 10 years and we all enjoyed the day. From rollercoasters to scare mazes it was a great day. Downside is just the q’s can be 90-120 minutes which feels like a huge waste of time. We ended up buying Fast Passes for 4 rides (£12 per ride 😳) but it meant we got the most from the day. Scare mazes were really good. The Mine one was really well set out but the “scares” weren’t really there. Edge of the Forest was amazing and we all jumped loads! Compound was the best one and we all got split up which adds to the experience.

I have been to Alton Towers several times in last few years. I find its a great place to go. My older child took a friend and went off and did her thing with a fast track pass to help her make the most of her time. Whilst the younger kids and I head to Cbeebies land. The rides are good rides and they often update them and add more. Currently waitng for the new bluey ride- spring 2026. The approx que times for rides are live and visible and there is an option to buy varying fast track options. There is also a disability scheme for some disabilities, although I haven't used this so don't know the details. The street when you enter is usually decorated which is nice. Loads of entertainment im cbeebies land. there are kids shows every hour or so in main tent with photo opportunities. Also furchester hotel live shows. Characters also walk around for meet and greet which is wonderful! and the big duggee play park keeps the kids happy and busy for most of the day. there are so many extras and deals to keep your day fun and options to keep cost down. although mecandish is so expensive and all the added extras make this day quite an expensive day out! but I feel its worth it. The app wouldn't upload my tickets this time but still was easy to get them on my email. Staff are helpful and friendly, there is food options but I generally bring my own and there is picnic tables and space. I feel alton towers is very accessible and accepting in terms of wheelchairs, buggy, disabled toilets, support for disabilitys. im sure there is much more available than I realise! all in all a great family day out!

We came for our daughter's 14th birthday at her request. We all had a good time. I have a issue with having to register Disability 3 months prior so I was in agony all day long and even so now. But the staff helped me a lot which im so thankful for. Our daughter's all enjoyed it. Few issues with rides but to be expected. Prices are absolutely extortionate. Multiple toilets were closed and struggled to locate water fountains. Won't be rushing back. It did what we wanted birthday girl had a good time

Went to Alton Towers Scarefest the other day with my sister and honestly had the best time! 🎃 The park looked amazing — full of pumpkins, bunting, and spooky decor everywhere. We went all out with our Halloween face paint and loved every minute of it. Even though the weather was chilly, the atmosphere totally made up for it. The Scarefest theme was on point — from the creepy trails to the glowing neon signs at dusk, it felt like walking through a Halloween movie. 👻 I’ve been to Alton Towers a few times, but this visit definitely stood out. It’s such a fun day out for all ages — rides, food, music, and so many photo-worthy spots. Would absolutely recommend going later in the afternoon and staying till dark — that’s when it really comes alive! 💀🖤

A good trip through the old lead mine, thank you to the team. The steps down are steep but very manageable. The narrow boar ride through the tunnel is quite awesome, however I would have like to have known more facts and figures about the mine and tunnels to make it more interesting, also we could not hear much due to shouting pre schoolers!

This trip is a complete rip off. Hands down it is the worst ‘cave visit’ we have ever been on. After telling 8 family members I’d found an exciting day out we paid in total £176. we arrived at the carpark looking forward to our day out. Although this is advertised online I am still astounded that the cavern owners find it acceptable to charge £6 to park for visitors who book the tour. They ‘kindly’ reimburse each visitor £2.50 on arrival but then in the same transaction demand 50p per person each time someone wishes to use the toilet. Never mind I thought, the tour will be worth it. It isn’t, don’t waste your money. You sit in a boat to be floated along a dark passageway unable to hear the tour guide tell you useless information. At the far end of the tunnel I believed that there would be a cavern or cave to explore…. It turns out there is a very small opening with nothing to see. So you stand and look at nothing for 10 minutes and then get back in the same boat and take exactly the same journey out, I left the cavern not knowing any more information about its history than when I arrived. Even at half the price the tour wouldn’t be worth the money. My advice would be to visit the other showcases in the area. They can’t possibly be any worse value for money.

We booked in advance online for 3 adults and 2 children and arrived in good time to pay for parking and obtain the partial redund for it. We also later used the toilets for 50p too. Can't see any issues there. The staff in the shop were lively and helpful and ticked our name off the list. We headed to wait to go underground. Archie was our guide and provided us with our hard hats and we headed down the 106 steps to the boat. He kept us all thoroughly entertained for the 90 minutes we were with him. The 10 minutes in the cave at the end were a great photo opportunity and when we headed back, he discovered the boat had a power issue and he had to use hand and foot power to get us back! A great trip! Archie kept us informed throughout with some great stories....

Speedwell Cavern is a 4.5/5 experience—unique, educational, and a little bit thrilling. It’s not a traditional "pretty" cave like some others in the Peak District, but its industrial history make it stand out. If you love hidden gems (literally!) and stories from the past, this is well worth a visit.

We had a great time here. We booked last minute as the weather was bad but this was a really interesting trip. Freddy was our guide on the boat and he made the tour fun and informative.

The mountains are a true sanctuary for the soul – fresh air, complete silence, and breathtaking landscapes. An amazing place to reconnect with nature and yourself. Perfect for relaxation and escaping the daily hustle.❤️

Speedwell Cavern, near Castleton in the Peak District, is an old lead mine turned tourist attraction. Visitors explore underground passages by boat through a flooded mine shaft, offering a unique experience. The cavern features impressive rock formations and a fascinating mining history. It’s family-friendly and guided tours run regularly. The site is easily accessible and popular with visitors looking to combine adventure with education. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

What’s not to love here? Great location, lots of free car parking, friendly staff, amazing views, dog friendly (outside) and yummy food! Had the superfood salad as I wanted something wholesome and it was so tasty. Highly recommended.

Having lived in the area some 40yrs ago but never got the time or chance to visit, we made a point of doing so whilst on holiday, especially after seeing it well presented on TV awhile back. Yes it seemed pricey but the quallity was there to see and feel.

This place has to be seen to be believed . Absolutely fantastic display in butchery , fish counter , deli , cheese and so much more . Open seven days a week. Call in you will not be disappointed.

Don't expect low prices, but you do get what you pay for. The food quality is excellent, and if in doubt ask one of the extremely helpful and polite staff members. I can't rate the place highly enough if you're looking for top quality items to eat and drink.

A lovely setting that is quiet and calm surrounded by woods. Lots of great plants and home items. The cafe outside seating surrounded by plants is a great place for a catch up and/or coffee

Love this place the food is always good, no matter what you have and it's hot, the staff are good. If you need shopping it's next door great food a bit pricey but good.

First visit left a good impression. What you would expect from such a wonderful estate.A good selection of local goods alongside those from other counties : meats, cheeses, savoury and sweet, wines and beers to name but a few. Quite reasonably priced too!

I had a fantastic experience visiting Blue John Cavern. Our guide, Nigel, was absolutely brilliant – so knowledgeable, full of fascinating facts, and with a great sense of humour that made the whole tour really enjoyable. He is a great guide. The journey down into the deepest show cave was exciting in itself, and while it may not be the most traditionally beautiful cave, it was certainly impressive and atmospheric. Seeing the natural veins of Blue John stone in the rocks was a real highlight and gave the place a unique charm you don’t find elsewhere. Overall, a memorable visit made even better thanks to Nigel’s engaging and funny storytelling.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A wonderful experience! I absolutely loved my visit to Blue John Cavern! The cave itself is stunning — the colours of the stone and the underground chambers are truly magical. Our guide was fantastic — funny, full of energy, and clearly passionate about the place, which made the whole tour even more enjoyable. The ladies in the gift shop were super friendly and helpful, and I left with a lovely souvenir and a big smile. Highly recommend this place to anyone visiting the Peak District!

Fantastic place to visit. Make sure you wear sensible footwear. The guide was great and gave us lots of rest stops on the way down and up. He was very knowledgeable and made the experience very enjoyable. The shop was well stocked and the staff were able to adjust my bracelet while we waited. Would definitely recommend. We even took our dog with us. She was totally unfazed.

We visited Blue John Cavern this Sunday, weather was a little damp which I think may have helped with parking as there didn’t seem to be an actual carpark as such just some bays on the road towards the entrance. I can imagine in good weather it would be much busier. We were a group of 8 and managed to book tickets when we arrived for a tour with some other people that started around 15 minutes later so there wasn’t much hanging around which was good as the facilities were not extensive. As someone who is not great with heights and enclosed spaces I was nervous especially when we first walked into the entrance and started the decent of the 245 steps within the cavern in quite a narrow space. Secure hand rails each side on this part helped me keep my balance and get my nerves under control. Once we reached the first open space I was more accustomed to the environment and while the steps are steep in places and a little slippery, the pace was good with plenty of stops and safety was a priority. Massive thanks to our guide Nigel, whose personality & enthusiasm for the caves along with his knowledge of its history & geology made the whole experience come alive. His help with a torch (or two) was also much appreciated in helping capture some fabulous photos of areas not lit up by the general lighting. Thoroughly enjoyed this trip, even the climb back up to the top! The surrounding countryside is absolutely stunning and with the cavern being roughly at the base of Mam Tor it was so interesting to see the beautiful countryside but also the hidden beauty beneath the surface.

I first visited this cavern when I was 9 on a primary school trip. Living close at the time the school went every year, amazing memories. Fast forward to present day aged 46 and I'm still that little child at heart, my wife couldn't understand my excitement about going down , after a few minutes I saw her inner child seeping through, the descent is long and very enjoyable with plenty of rich history and things to see. The guide was brilliant, he made the experience what it was with his knowledge and humour. Being the only recorded blue John location in the world with it's radioactive rock, this is a must see for anyone who likes to explore. Very friendly staff and a great cafe outside too.

Blue John Cavern is definitely worth a visit, but what truly stood out was our guide, George. He has an incredible depth of knowledge and delivers it with such charm and humour that you hang on every word. Exploring the veins of Blue John stone with his commentary made it a memorable and unique experience.

It was very quick to pay for the tickets and go on the tour. The place is very slippery so wear sensible gripping shoes. There are toilets at the back of the shop. Dogs are welcome but you need to have them on a lead. Tour is about an hour and some bits are very steep so do take care. It was very interesting to see the parts where people used to work within the mine, crazy really. The only part I disliked was at the end of the tour a tip box is put out which ruined the whole feel of the tour, being that it was £19 each to go on it.

Lovely park with lots of walking routes, we only came to look around briefly as it was late. Got surprised as we found a small eatery inside the Ilam hall that serves food till late evening, also a bar available with lots of drinks. Outdoors had lots of areas for kids to play in.

Nice large car park and looks like a overflow when very busy. There is a small cafe and information centre. Short walk up Dovedale to stepping stones,or you can go further to caves etc.

Really lovely place. If National Trust member there's no fee. Parking is £8 otherwise. Cafe good though very hard chairs with no cushions (not good with bad back!). Smaller 2nd cafe too. Lots of open green spaces for children to play and there are organised activities several times a day presently though not sure if they may only be during school summer holidays. No house to look round inside, but lovely buildings to look at from outside, and a beautiful church. Walkable to Stepping Stones at Dovedale. Could easily spend a day here! We met up with friends from Sheffield which was equidistant for us so a very successful and enjoyable day. Will definitely return.

Amazing view and scenery, very peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. They have toilets, parking and kids play area, cafe.

I adore this place for its incredible nature and landscapes, I love it with all my heart and soul! One of the favourite places in Derbyshire ♥️♥️♥️

Is a nice place to visit. Has his own charm. Is a good place to include in walk if you go the Dovedale - Stepping Stones.

Lovely grounds to walk around and well maintained. Dog friendly, and the cafe is really good. Helpful and friendly staff.

This area is so beautiful, thankfully we got there early and got some good photos without loads of people. Upon return there were hoards of people here and loads swimming too. It's not far from the car park to get here, easy flat walk and very enjoyable. The river looked shallow today so nice to paddle in too. The toilets are at the car park and they charge 20p for each turn which is ridiculous in my opinion, this is why people then urinate in the caves and leave toilet paper in them.

Breathtaking walk with iconic stepping stones and stunning views! A must-visit spot in the Peak District! The stepping stones across the river are so charming – fun for kids and adults alike. Just across the stones is Thorpe Cloud, a short but steep climb that rewards you with incredible panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The whole area is peaceful, well-maintained, and perfect for a scenic walk or a picnic. There’s a mix of flat paths by the river and more challenging climbs if you’re feeling adventurous. Parking is available at Dovedale Car Park, just a short walk from the stones. Gets busy on sunny weekends, but totally worth it. An unforgettable day out in nature!

Really pretty and definitely photo worthy. I can imagine it's really busy during the day, we came at about 6pm and still had to wait on our return walk to cross as others were taking photos but of course as it's a lovely shot. I don't think there is anywhere else to cross though so it's not wheelchair accessible. Be aware that the approach to the car park is a very very narrow road so please go slowly as on our approach people were not leaving slowly and and not a huge amount of passing places. Take care.

Lovely place to visit anytime of the week. Parking is easy, it’s around £8 for the whole day (advisable) or if your a National trust member you pay nothing. Get there early to enjoy the stepping stones without having to queue forever lol. Walk through Dovedale admiring Lovers Leap and Ilam Rock all the way up to Milldale.. a lovely little village. The village has toilets and there’s a small cafe that sells tea/coffee/ice creams etc. On the way back you can climb Reynards Cave, please note that this can get very steep so only climb if you can, good footwear is required too as it can get slippy (Not advised to take children up). As you make your way back to the stepping stones you can risk making the dreaded quest back over or veer left towards Thorpe Cloud. You can choose to walk up Thorpe cloud if you wish, follow the wooden posts painted blue at the tip. Again, this can be a challenging walk up so good footwear is needed. Coming down can get slippery so be careful. Views at the top are beautiful, worth the climb. If you don’t fancy that you can walk around the base of Thorpe Cloud and finish where you started. Great day out in my opinion, whole journey should take around 4 to 5 hours, depending on what you do…. Enjoy!

It is a good place to spend a day. It has a beautiful walking track alongside the water. The stepping stone in the middle of the water is amazing. This place has a lot of peace for nature lovers.

Beautiful place, nice views, family fun and rock climbing. Drawbacks No Phone 📵 reception and no internet which is horrible as you can't call to your family in emergency or change of plan in case of any circumstances. Anything happen car break down or for any other reason you are totally disconnected with the world which is so bad. Hopefully they put a tower for better reception. They don't have any proper food point.

Really lovely in the morning when it is not as busy, got extremely busy in the afternoon and a bit of delay of crossing the river at the stepping stones. Pathway is clear and smooth most of the way. Would recommend to plan in advance if want to get good car park space and picnic space.

One of the best places to walk the dog in the woods. Wide, even paths and picturesque landscapes make walking a pure pleasure. Enough room in parking spaces. The prices are fair, however get some coins ready as the card readers don't work at the moment.

Such a wonderful place to visit. There are a few route options once you get there depending on the length of walk you want. We normally do a circuit of the two Reservoirs, but you can easily do a round walk of all three at once. We'll kept paths, the occasional bench or picnic bench, what more could you ask for eh? Stunning views across the Reservoir, beautiful forest canopies to walk under, loads of birds on the water and in the trees. Just a really special place to visit and be in nature. Dogs to be kept on leads for wildlife and farm animal's sake.

A beautiful place for a walk, where you can take in the beautiful surroundings. The walk around the Reservoirs has a few hills but its very manageable. We had a lovely walk on a sunny September Sunday.

Had a lovely walk with my husband and family. Beautiful scenery. Only reason didn't get a 5 star was because of people not having their dogs on a lead. Xxx

Beautiful place! Very easy walk. All dogs should be on leads but quite a few people were not following this rule.

Nice wee walk around 3 reservoirs. Well kept Can do a longer walk round them all or cut short and just do one or two Toilets on site, car parks and an ice cream van!

Beautiful woods for a walk, and the reservoirs are lovely. Car parks at each entry of the woods as there is 3, and plenty of benches for eating and resting.

A good example of a stone circle that still exists after thousands of years, we need to look after these ancient sacred places as it predates the modern paternalistic religions that we have now

This is an intriguing site, with amazing views for miles. Walking where our ancestors did has always fascinated me and I wonder why the stones were laid flat. A minor note of caution, the lane into the car park is far from flat, the potholes would have defeated a lower slung vehicle than mine.

Monday, 6th October 2025 Arbor Low is a well-preserved Neolithic henge in the Derbyshire Peak District, England. It lies on a Carboniferous Limestone plateau known as the White Peak area. The monument consists of a stone circle surrounded by earthworks and a ditch. The monument includes about 50 large limestone blocks, quarried from a local site, which form an egg-shaped circle. There were probably 41–43 stones originally, but some are now in fragments. They range in size from 1.6 to 2.1 metres (5 ft 3 in to 6 ft 11 in), with monoliths of between 2.6 and 2.9 metres (8 ft 6 in and 9 ft 6 in). One stone is partially upright; the rest are lying flat. Although it is often stated that the stones have never stood upright, it is possible that they had originally been set upright in shallow stone holes. In the centre of the circle lie at least six smaller blocks known as the cove, originally believed to have been set in a rectangle. The stones are surrounded by an earth bank, approximately 90 by 85 metres (295 by 279 ft) at the outside edges and 2 metres (6 ft 7 in) high, with an interior ditch about 2 metres deep and 7 to 10 metres (23 to 33 ft) wide. There are two causeway entrances breaching both the bank and ditch; a north-west entrance 9 metres (30 ft) wide, and a south-east entrance 6 metres (20 ft) wide. The inner bank encloses an area of 52 by 40 metres (171 by 131 ft). Few henge monuments in the British Isles are as well preserved. It is a very easy walk, about 7 or 8 minutes 🤔, up to the stone circle. Parking spaces are near a farm 🚜 in which you have to pass through. The farm owners ask for a £1 donation via an honesty box 📦. Well worth a visit. Suitable for all the family.

Lovely little site, peaceful and unspoilt. Access through a farmer's land, hence the honesty box £1 charge, which I think is extremely reasonable given that the farmers absolutely don't have to allow any access at all. Plus the farm cat, three legged Eddie, is extremely handsome and friendly and loves a cuddle, so that's worth the entry fee alone. We chatted to the farmer who was very friendly.

It is what it says a stone circle however the stones are not standing. Very nice henge

Great place reminds me of Stonehenge. The admission is £1 that you put in a small black box located on the path to the site (See Photos). You go through two wooden gates to the stones that are located on the farm when I say farm I mean you have to walk over part of a farm the stones are not far from the main road maybe a 5 minute walk. The site is awesome and the sunset is out of this world there is a few signs with some history about the site well worth visiting here. Parking is a small layby on the site or there is a layby on the road that you can park on and both are free.

This site is accessed through a farm which you are expect to pay £1 (I'm guessing to the farmers) . Not sure I agree with this when you have already paid membership to access these sites. The site itself is quite impressive but was spoiled by people flying drones above them. There is an info board , and parking is down the farm lane or at the bottom of the road 5 mins away. If pre history floats your boat you will love it

Padley Gorge is a gem, atmospheric, versatile, and rewarding. It's well suited for both casual strolls and more ambitious walks. If you enjoy woodland, water features, varied terrain and peaceful surroundings, it delivers strongly. Just come prepared good footwear, patience with parking, and perhaps allowance for mud. I would highly recommend it for a day walk, and especially as a photography-oriented walk or a nature escape from busy urban life.

Padley gorge in autumn was absolutely stunning , can be a bit slippy when wet, but the walk will take your breath away. Lovely cafe at Grindleford station and also one about 15 mins away at the end of the gorge on the longshaw estate. Where there is also parking . Worth a visit anytime of year but particular autumn

Wow! Such a lovely walk! Wooded areas following the river and so much more.... finishing off with the biggest bacon bap i have ever had and a lovely cappuccino 😊

I must say that it was indeed worth it visiting this place. In summary, it’s a very rocky terrain, the more you go further the higher the climb. Very beautiful environment and you just have no choice but to absorb the serenity of the atmosphere in. Bare in mind that there’s no network signal whatsoever, so it might be advisable to have offline version of the map just in case one gets lost in there.

Padley Gorge is a hidden gem in the Peak District, offering breathtaking scenery, ancient woodland, and picturesque waterfalls, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and hikers alike. With its stunning landscapes and rich wildlife, this National Trust site is perfect for a peaceful day out, whether you're looking to explore the walking trails or simply enjoy a picnic amidst nature's beauty.

Not much to add that hasn't been mentioned, however it is of note how accessible this place is by train. A short journey from Sheffield and you get off at Grindleford station. The gorge begins 2 minutes walk from there. Enjoy. M

Beautiful autumn walk, NT cafe was nice. Need hiking boots after the rain if going down to walk along the edge.

What a fabulous place! We enjoyed the walk up to the top with increasingly beautiful views as you go. We were lucky to visit on a clear day and could see miles. There were lots of other people enjoying the views too and quite a few climbers, but it didn’t feel crowded. A wonderful lady had taken some unposed photos of my partner and I enjoying the view, which she sent us and were a wonderful gift. Thoroughly recommend visiting if you’re in the area 🥰🙏🧗🏞️

Amazing views. Nice little hike . Takes about 40 min to go up and return to the road. A bit busy on weekends . Easy to medium level hike.

Absolutely breathtaking view over Ladybower reservoir and the endless field! We went up from Heatherdene carpark (quite steep so don’t recommend going downhill by this route), and down to New Road. Be extra careful when taking pictures by the cliff it can get really windy.

Decent little hike with great views all along the ridge. 10 mins climb up from New Road. Terrain not too bad. Lots of free parking on New Road below.

A perfect trail for admiring Hope Valley, the Peak District hills, the reservoirs below, and, of course, the rock formations. The easy trail, the beauty of central England, and the surrounding wildlife create truly stunning scenery.

Reminded me so much of Wuthering Heights (the eerie feeling of desolation while looking at terrain...the reddish grass)and movies based on Jane Austen's novels. I read a book there to mark the place in my memory.🌻 Weather was kind that day. Camera was cooperating with my untrained hands. Company was jolly. Hike uphill and downhill was easy on my sprained ankles and vitD deficient bones😀

This place is a must-visit hidden gem that offers excellent hiking opportunities and stunning views, guaranteeing an unforgettable experience that never disappoints.

One of the hidden gems, and what such amazing place it is! Well worth visiting, good views, amazing landscapes. Easy to take a wrong turn if your not careful, if going on hot day take a swimsuit! Easy loop around, tho with smaller ones can be tricky and take a lot longer. But the kids and adults will enjoy the dip/swim in the shires.

Well worth the hike from the pub in Flash & make a loop back to the pub for a pint (check pub opening times) Best to visit Thee Shires during the week for less crowds and after some rain for the best water fall pictures. It’s an easy trail to follow with some steep hills & loose rocks so I would recommend walking boots

A while back, we went for a lovely, crisp morning walk to the Three Shires! We parked at The New Inn, in the closest village of Flash. They were happy for us to park there and we completed a circular route to the gorgeous waterfalls. We set off early and returned for a home-cooked breakfast. It was delicious, reasonably priced and the staff were very friendly☺️ 🥾 SK17 0SW for the village parking!

I was astonished and upset when we reach the place. We parked our car at the entrance where it said car park here and there’s no place to turn. There was a sign board. It took us 35-40 minutes walk to reach the place, our navigation was quiet bad due to network problem. However, we managed to reach there, after the road you will encounter a trail. When we reach there, it was crowded with a young people and waterfall or it was little less spring water was really low where you will not be able to swam across and you will have to go down further or up ward to find a suitable space. Nevertheless, place is not for swimming. You will find a few spots where you can feel a depth of water but most of it has small depth. Not the ideal place for swim.🏊‍♀️ May be , we were looking for swimming and thats how we felt. We did found a good spot which has a quite a depth from other spots which you have to go above from little bridge. I will attach pictures as a reference. Hope you will find suitable for your preference.

After 3 attempts and poor directions on Google maps we found a lay by on the A34 off Macclesfield road and walked downhill towards the river Dane. We followed the river down and after around 30 mins we came to Three Shires head. The walk is a but rocky and was wet when we walked as we'd had a huge downpour the day before. There are sheep en route so we kept the dogs on leads. Three shires is very picturesque. I imagine it gets really busy in high season (if people find it). After a break from walking and a quick paddle we made our way up the opposite way to that we had come by and have to say the motorbikes using the paths to scramble is a bit of a pain. We had the same issue coming back down to Three Shires with groups of men on motorbikes doing a circular route round. Apart from that it's a lovely place and worth a visit to tick off.

Parked on the lay-by on the A54, took us 20 minutes there/ 40 back (steep hill after fun in the sun!) The area is lovely, and the water is good for children and paddlers as it only really goes to waist height. The location is remote so do be contingent about what you bring: calorie-dense snacks, water and sensible footwear are STRONGLY RECOMMENDED! (no flipflops, and don't doubt you will get hungry after the Peaks' inclines!) Great for the summer but it is quite popular so be wary of crowds, including families.

Long walk, but scenic and well worth the hike. The weather can be very changeable, so go prepared

Wednesday, 8th October 2025 The Wye valley continues upstream towards Buxton as Wye Dale, while downstream are Miller's Dale village and valley. Chee Dale has a protected nature reserve (close to the village of Wormhill), which is overseen by the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust. The reserve contains ash, yew and rock whitebeam woodland on the cliff sides and abundant wild flowers including cowslips, early purple orchids, rock rose and the rare Jacob's ladder. Dippers are often seen darting low above the river and bobbing on rocks in the river. Other birds nesting in the valley include blackcap, chiffchaff and willow warblers. Chee Dale is part of the Wye Valley Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), running for 15 kilometres (9.3 mi) east of Buxton. The Monsal Trail bridleway runs for 8.5 miles (13.7 km) from Topley Pike Junction (at the head of Chee Dale) to Rowsley near Bakewell, along the disused Manchester, Buxton, Matlock and Midlands Junction Railway line. It passes through Upper Chee Dale and then enters Chee Tor Tunnels 1 and 2 through to Miller's Dale. There is also a riverside footpath along the length of Chee Dale with several wooden footbridges over the river. Sets of stepping stones allow walkers to pass the foot of the cliffs. The crags of carboniferous limestone in Upper Chee Dale and of Chee Tor cliff in Lower Chee Dale have extensive rock climbing routes. These include the overhanging Cornice and Chee Tor. Chee Tor has the Chee Tor Girdle route, a 167-metre (548 ft) horizontal traverse 20 metres (66 ft) above the cliff base, first climbed in 1964 by Chris Jackson and J. Atkinson. At the head of Chee Dale, Great Rocks Dale enters from the north, at the former railway stations of Blackwell Mill and Chee Dale Halt. Great Rocks Dale is a dry valley and is the site of Tunstead Quarry, one of the largest limestone quarries in the UK. The Pennine Bridleway crosses the River Wye over a footbridge at Blackwell Mill. Access into the deep gorge is limited, though it can be reached from Miller's Dale car park. At the west end of Chee Dale is Topley Pike layby, with limited parking by the A6 road. There is also a short steep footpath from Wormhill. I parked in the lay-by on the A6 and followed the path down to the Monsal Trail. It is a pleasant walk to the stepping stones especially in nice weather ☀️. I can recommend a visit to this place😀.

Lovely little adventure along the river. Great scenery all the way down. Some great climbing spots! Stepping stones are fun although water level was low on our visit.

Beautiful place. Very limited human intervention and things like the stepping stones and bridges almost look part of the place. Saw many different waterbirds including a heron and ducklings. That being said depending on which car park you're coming from it's not an easy walk especially with kids - it's a risky 'path' right next to the river with rocks going up and down that are extremely slippery if they're the slightest bit wet. If you're coming from Mill Dale car park you won't have this issue - coming from or to Chee Dale car park (depending on which direction you take) is as described above. Would recommend to anyone able to do it. This was my first time hiking without a flat path and absolutely loved it - that being said it may not be as easy for everyone physically. Went on the Sunday before a bank holiday and it wasn't anywhere near as busy as usual on holidays. There were very few parts of the walk where we were alone without anyone passing by for long and majority of whom were families with younger children. Plus a lot of people abseiling too. Everyone we met was also very kind and helpful whether it was with directions or offering a hand to get up and down. Only issue is there are only 2 ladies toilets in Bakewell and there is a constant and sometimes massive line depending on the time - when we arrived around 11:40am there was no chance getting a toilet break. After we got back around 2pm there were a slight line build up but nowhere near as long waiting times. They should probably add a sign about how to flush the toilets though since most people don't bother figuring it out. This place is truly closed off from humans and almost feels like entering a different world. Not to mention how clear the water is!

“Which way are the stepping stones” The Chee Dale Stepping stones are a landmark of the Peak District. If you set foot anywhere near the monsal trail you will no doubt hear this question echoed from Buxton to Monsal Head. The stones are remarkably well placed, almost as if they have been placed deliberately. They are well spaced, and each one has plenty of room for two feet, four at a push. They can get slippery when wet, but are flat enough that they are still manageable in the worst conditions. In winter they will become icy, and I’d advise you to wear wellies because the level of the river will likely be higher (pictured in bad conditions late September). In summer the river level is drastically lower and renders one half of one section obsolete as you can walk beside them (useful for helping people along). The stones complete a nice little loop from millers dale (can go back via the monsal trail, particularly useful if the feet get wet). I have detracted a star for two reasons: the stones can get very busy at peak times, and seem to attract the worst most irresponsible dog owners that cannot control their pets (nor clean up after them).

Accessible via a woodland path off the Monsal Trail, a lovely little spot. Stepping stones are easy to walk and the area itself is a nice area for a picnic. Rock climbers are often there too, scaling the cliff side.

Lovely hiking trail, quite nice walk, path may be a bit tricky at some points - narrow and stones but manageable :) easy to get back on main trail, recommended 100%

We left the Monsall trail down steps before the viaduct. Riverside walk is very pretty for 1st km. It does get very difficult further round with a lot of scrambling over the rocks. We decided to turn back as we had an elderly dog that couldn’t climb the rocks. Not recommended for unsteady people small children and elderly dogs.

Always love a bimble round Burbage Edge. Fantastic walk with plenty of great views. Great spot for bouldering/climbing as well. Can get very busy at peak times and especially when the weather is good. There are quite a few parking spots about in the area. Some pay and display and some off road lay-by parking provided. So please park sensibly. They can get full quite quick at peak times so parking can be a bit of a nightmare unless you get there early. Well worth visit for hiking or climbing but please look after these places and take you rubbish home otherwise it ruins the beauty of the place for everyone else.

Nature's playground! This area is beautiful and offers some cool walks and bouldering challenges. Around 30 beginner problems and 50 odd problems that hurt my fingers just looking at them! Great day out when the weathers nice. Can be windy and cold in the shade.

Some great bouldering problems in a beautiful setting.

Great place for bouldering and being outdoors

On clear days the views of Derbyshire's landscape is stunning, easy walking and a grate place for climbing.

Great Bouldering in a beautiful location

First visit to Burbage for the bouldering. Not climbed for over a year so i thought i would take it nice and steady, it's just the place with a very good mix of boulders. Will be paying a visit again very soon as there is so much there. A very picturesque place.

I’ve been to many museums around the world, and this is definitely one of the best. The collection is astounding and there’s so much to see, you’ll need a whole day to do it justice. It’s great for all ages and you don’t need to have a particular interest in armies or weapons to enjoy your visit. The displays are beautifully arranged. The museum is free to enter and there are multiple free shows for kids and adults alike to enjoy throughout the day. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in Leeds.

Fantastic day out. Loads to see and interact with. The historic role plays are very informative. A well stocked shop has plenty of items for all ages. If you fancy a snack and drink then the cafe has it all. There is a car park very close.

A good museum with a lot of mostly ancient and medieval arms and armour on display - best of all it's free! Took the grandkids on a half-term Saturday. A modern multi- floor building but quite difficult to find your way around (no paper maps available). Exhibits were sometimes in odd places making it easy to miss things. No clear timeline in most cases. Lots of free talks and demonstrations through the day (plus a section you had to buy a ticket for and one talk you had to pre-book). Pretty much all of the exhibits are in glass display cases which makes them very difficult to photograph due to reflections. Some are poorly lit and I found some items did not have placards leaving them a bit of a mystery. Ate in the restaurant - great food and reasonable prices, but inadequate seating and slow service, however, the museum was very busy so partly to be expected I suppose. Overall well worth a visit - I'll be back I'm sure!

I’ve been visiting the Royal Armouries in Leeds since I was a child, and it remains a timeless experience. Some of the exhibits are clearly veterans of many years, but they add to the charm of returning time and again. It’s a brilliant place for kids – the interactive displays bring history to life across different time periods without being frightening or sensationalised. One of the highlights, as always, is the magnificent elephant in its suit of armour – though I still don’t know how they manage to get it to stand so patiently all day while visitors admire it! My favourite exhibit was a temporary film and TV exhibit in 2008 which I visited with my high school history class and was able to view arms and armour from the critically acclaimed Lord of the Rings and Narnia feature films. On this visit, we enjoyed the temporary Roman Gladiator exhibition, which was well worth the small entry fee (the main museum remains free). A special mention to the kind lady at the desk who offered concession entry for NHS/Blue Light card holders – much appreciated. The museum could benefit from clearer signage, as it’s quite easy to lose oneself in the vast collection. I was a little bemused to find Steven Gerrard among the Tudor plate armour, but equally delighted to see Princess Diana represented in the peace exhibit – a thoughtful touch. The visit finished, as always, with a trip through the extensive and tempting gift shop. Overall, the Royal Armouries is a wonderful museum, full of history, surprises, and memories – well worth visiting, whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth.

Have been here many times many years ago and the area around the Armouries has changed so much situated in a square sureounded by cafe and restraunts. The cafe in the Armouries had a great breakfast deal viewing of docks. The shop has great gifts too. We visited the gladiator exhibition at a small extra cost .orginal artifacts from rome & pompeii amazing to see exemplary orginals. The show was great too depicting gladiator in training The rest of the Armouries hasn't changed and still has amazing displays through out. It's still free to visit. The nearest carpark is a multi -story pay and display nearly. There are only 3 disabled spaces near coach park . You can borrow wheelchairs on site and they have four lifts .

When you think about it, this is five floors of various ways the human species have found to kill each other which after recent events in America feels a bit grim witnessing. However, this is history and the displays, layout and experience are exceptional. Especially given that it is free to enter the main museum and you just have to pay for the special exhibits. We went to see the Gladiator display and saw a couple of the talks on ww2 which were very interesting. Its definitely worth going to see whilst you're in Leeds.

The Royal Armouries in Leeds is a fascinating place to visit, packed with exhibits that take you back through history. There’s so much to see and learn—it can easily take a few hours to explore properly. Throughout the day, there are live shows and demonstrations which are not only educational but also fun, with audience participation that really brings the experience to life. It’s an engaging place for all ages, and my son particularly enjoyed it. It’s a great day out for families, offering insight into the history and cultures of different parts of the world. One downside is the café, which is on the pricey side. You might be better off walking down the road to find something more affordable to eat. Overall, a memorable and educational trip that’s well worth the visit.

Firstly, this is a free to enter venue. The botanical gardens are a beautiful piece of serenity within a large city. The gardens are stunning and laid out in a way that enables one to amble around relaxing. There are many varied areas with lots of different themes, all utterly gorgeous. We saw lots of squirrels that are so tame they can be hand fed. We also stopped at the café for a very welcome cup of tea. The gardens are definitely worth a visit.

Great place to visit and free too. We were pleasantly surprised, its really is a hidden gem. The Glass House is full of interesting plants and the gardens are really well maintained. The squirrels were very friendly and entertaining.

The botanical garden is beautiful in autumn, with trees in many shades creating lovely layers of colour. We went in the morning, and the squirrels were very active. Several even came close looking for food, which was really cute.

A great place to get away from it all. Some lovely walks around the gardens, loads of plants and trees (looks lovely). Most plants and trees have labels to help you identify them. There are plenty of seats in all parts of the gardens, some are in lovely quiet places. Spent ages just looking at the plants and listening to the wildlife. There is a cafe and toilets. When I visited the indoor part of the gardens were closed for maintenance. It is free to enter!

These gardens are absolutely beautiful. At certain times of the year, the vivid colours and patterns formed by trees, plants and shrubs are simply amazing. There are so many features in this garden, something for everyone. You can spend quite a lot of time here on a sunny day, enjoying the grounds, visiting the tropical greenhouse, the rock garden, and many more. There are toilet facilities on site. There is paid parking and also a few free spots if you can find one, or park further away and walk. Sheffield Botanical Gardens is a great place to visit, even as a day trip especially Spring time. And it’s free. Thank you Sheffield.

Wonderful place! I had a great day today walking, not crowded, people having picnics.. just a lovely relaxing day surrounded by nature's colours

A wonderful place to relax with family and alone. It's a beautiful view of different corners. There are a large number of different varieties of magnolia here, about 30 species, so it is worth returning here at the end of May. There is also an alley with roses, both old and new varieties. There is a greenhouse with a great number of plants, especially cool cacti, aloe which was planted in 2003 and looks like a tree, there are also banana trees. Admission is free here, but you can make a donation online. Also on the territory there are many interesting tablets with the history of the garden, which will be especially relevant for children in the study of biology and nature in general. There's a café and a parking lot.

The museum was excellent and paid for entry into the "Power Up" exhibition which all the family enjoyed as it had retro computers and consoles that brought back happy memories of our childhood and our kids loved trying those games out too but ended up playing on what they know best Minecraft. An enjoyable day to pass the time and the science and technology free exhibition was good as it had hands on exhibits. Only problem we found was trying to find parking but that might be because it was the school holidays. We would definitely visit again.

Free entry, with recommended donation of £5. Currently undergoing a big refurbish only a small part of the exhibits are currently on display. They had a good section on weaving, and a nice memorial for Stephen Hawkins. Upstairs is a hands-on science exhibit which was fun for the kids. When we visited they had a retro gaming interactive exhibit, which was an extra charge but great fun playing some older games and seeing old consoles. Worth popping in if you are nearby visiting crystal maze live for example, but don’t expect to spend more than a couple of hours in its current limited capacity.

A well organised museum charting the history of industrialisation in and around Manchester. Lots of interactive and interesting information and very much geared towards families with children. There’s a small section off the main hall on Stephen Hawkings which was fascinating! Upstairs on the first floor is full of children’s activities. Then across the square is the building that houses the steam engines! There was a very enthusiastic chap that explained the Pender engine and got the audience involved. And had a surprised brass band playing too! It’s free to enter, and they encourage you to make a donation!

The Manchester Science and Industry Museum is an absolutely fantastic place to visit, especially for families with children. One of the best parts is that entry is completely free, which makes it even more amazing considering how much there is to see and do inside. The museum is both educational and entertaining, offering a wide variety of interactive exhibits that stimulate children’s curiosity and creativity. There are hands-on activities designed to develop motor skills, logical thinking, and problem-solving abilities — perfect for kids who love to explore and learn by doing. You can find fascinating displays about the Industrial Revolution, machines, technology, and even silk production, all presented in a way that’s engaging and easy to understand. The museum does a great job of connecting Manchester’s rich industrial history with modern scientific innovation. It’s also a great place for adults — the exhibits are well-organized, informative, and full of historical details about how Manchester played a key role in shaping the world of science and industry. Overall, it’s an inspiring, educational, and fun museum that truly captures the spirit of discovery. I highly recommend visiting, especially if you’re traveling with children or simply love science, technology, and history.

This Museum locates on the Liverpool Street, Manchester M3 4JP. The Museim has just finalised a partial renovation and now the main gallery is open again for visitors. It is free. It is worthwhile to spend a half- day visit, bringing with your kids. Let the kids explore the industrial development history throughout the centuries of Manchester. Here in this Museum, you can have an exhibit of the "Baby Computer" proudly invented by the scientists from the University of Manchester. In contrast with the nowadays computers, the first generation was much larger than the present user- friendly ones. The present ones are easily hand carried. The old and sizable generation ones were set up, occuping in a floor of building by a series of cabinets froming the the body of the computing compartment - containing numbers of cathodes and vacuum tubes. Now, you may feel surprised by the scientists who had made the advancement of our livings. There, you can find the printing history and its innovation. The museum displays the first typographic machine. It was used to replace the ancient workloads by hand picking up each alphebetical lead words from trays. It was a very tensive labour consumption by very complicated procedures. Manchester was once a renowned textile empire as a leader in the world. Thanks for the industrial revolution

Top Manchester attraction for all ages. Best of all it’s mostly free apart from the occasional special exhibition. Also really easy to either park outside on a metre or one of the many local car parks.

This museum is full of fascinating exhibits and clever inventions that highlight the city’s industrial legacy. From historic steam engines to hands-on science zones, there’s plenty to explore and learn. It’s fun, informative, and ideal for anyone curious about how things work.

Perfect stop during your walk and thanks to National Trust to made that happened. You can bring your best mates specially dogs because they deserve a nice walk as well but must be on leads. The cafe is great addition in this area. Choose your walking gear properly for rough ground on the walks. Even good for kids as they have play or learning area. Beautiful scenic area full of wild flowers and best for bird watching. Parking available. If your member of National Trust then its free for you.

Had a lovely walk with family. Some pram friendly routes. On site cafe and toilets. Some fantastic views well worth a visit!!

Fantastic place to visit for all the family. We parked in the car park and did a lovely 8mjle loop route finishing off in the Longshaw cafe. I recommend you get to the car park early to avoid it being full in peak season.

Beautiful countryside walks close to Sheffield and Chesterfield. Free parking for National Trust members Several routes of varying length. Great cafe with fantastic views.

Very nice walking trails in all directions. Excellent if you have a four legged friend but make sure you have a tick comb with you and check your dog as soon as you get back to your car.

Lovely, easy going walk. Dog friendly for those that need though must be kept on a SHORT leash. Expensive parking though hence a star down.

Wonderful place. More than enough parking. Were trust members so didnt cost us anything. This its about £6 for the day although cheaper rates are available. Great NT cafe, book shop and small kitchen garden to explore. Lots of activities for kids. We did the blue walk. Atound 3 miles. Real nice.

This is shocking if a business was to have ground like this it would be shut down as a health hazard yes this view is stunning but to leave it open to the public risking serious injury from how rough the ground is is ridiculous There is an application for three new pathways to be put in this area but I’m not sure if it covers this route. The best route to do this is to come down it. And that is if you don’t have bad joints My pictures don’t show how bad it actually is

This was the best part of our walk today Kinder Scout, Jacobs ladder circular definitely out of breath when I reached the top after a couple of stops but amazing views. Well worth walk up Jacobs Ladder.

Really enjoyed the hike! The views were absolutely amazing—definitely worth the effort. It’s a good workout.. be sure to bring plenty of water!!!

Nice walk, downhill route along the river is very challenging.

Really nice trek in the peak district. We descended down Jacob's Ladder. The route we took started from Edale train station. Do remember to go to the cafe next to this station as they hand out free maps of the area and that map was quite helpful in finding the correct directions. From the Edale station we ascended up from Grindsbrook Clough to the top, which was Kinder Scout and Kinder Plateau. We walked on the top till we reached the end and descended down Jacob's Ladder. Amazing and memorable trek. The terrain changes so drastically in each section. Highly recommended. The ascent up through Grindsbrook Clough is recommended rather than descending down it because it is easier to climb at the start of your trek rather than descending when exhausted. Additionally, the Clough is full of rocks and boulders. Be prepared to use your hands and legs to climb. A moderate level of fitness is recommended.

Worth the hike …to cool down your feet. Next time I’m bringing a towel to take a full dip. Crystal clear water.

Did 3 hour walk we found on Komoot called 'The woolpacks Loop with Jacobs ladder'. It took 4.5 hours as conditions were not good. Some stunning scenery but didn't really have time to stop and take pictures as priority was to get back before it got totally dark. It was wet, windy and the last hour was after sunset but most importantly it was fun once we got back to the car safely.