If you’re planning a day trip this autumn, these towns and villages are among the best places to visit for an authentic Peak District experience.
The spots you need to explore over the coming weeks are listed below – is there anywhere else that you think we should have included?
1. Edensor
Edensor is a custom-built village on the Chatsworth Estate, which was specially commissioned by the sixth Duke of Devonshire, and incorporates a variety of stunning traditional house designs – including mock Tudor properties and Swiss-style cottages. In the 19th century, the sixth Duke of Devonshire ordered that the old estate village be demolished and rebuilt out of sight, as it spoiled his view of the estate from Chatsworth House - with Edensor being reconstructed entirely at the new site. Edensor also has a connection to former US President John F Kennedy, who made the pilgrimage to Edensor in July 1963 to visit the grave of his sister Kathleen Kennedy (who had married into the Devonshire family). Photo: jason chadwick
2. Birchover
Birchover is mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086 - where it was recorded as belonging to Henry de Ferrers and being worth eight shillings. The Rowtor Rocks lie just outside the village of Birchover, where caves, rooms, tunnels, steps and even an armchair have been carved into the stone. Victorian tourists were led to believe these were the work of an ancient Druid community - but were carved by a local man some 300 years ago. Photo: Brian Eyre
3. Castleton
Castleton is another scenic Peak District village that you need to explore - with popular attractions including Peveril Castle, Peak Cavern and Winnats Pass. Photo: Brian Eyre
4. Hathersage
Hathersage has strong literary connections - having inspired Charlotte Brontë while she was writing Jane Eyre. The nearby North Lees Hall (pictured here) also became the main inspiration for Thornfield Hall. The Grave of Little John, Robin Hood’s second-in-command, can be found at St. Michael’s Church in the heart of Hathersage. While there is little evidence proving he is buried here, ballads suggest that he originated from Hathersage and settled there again later in his life. Photo: Phil Sproson Photography - Visit Peak District & Derbyshire