Adventurous Days Out in the Peak District: A WanderHosts Guide

The Peak District is a playground of rolling hills, secret caves, winding trails, and cosy villages – perfect for curious families, outdoor lovers, and weekend wanderers. Whether you're staying in one of our handpicked WanderHosts holiday lets or just passing through, here's our favourite list of fun-packed activities and hidden gems across this incredible national park.

🚶‍♂️ Walks & Wonders

1. Dovedale & the Stepping StonesA must-do for first-timers! Follow the riverside path, hop across the iconic limestone stepping stones, and enjoy a picnic beneath Thorpe Cloud. It’s a gentle adventure that’s perfect for families with younger children.

2. Mam Tor – The ‘Shivering Mountain’This short hike near Castleton delivers big rewards. You'll reach panoramic views across the Hope Valley with minimal effort. Ideal for little legs and four-legged friends alike.

3. Kinder ScoutUp for more of a challenge? Hike to the Peak District’s highest point and discover rugged moorland, hidden waterfalls, and the legendary Kinder Downfall. Don’t forget your boots and a sense of adventure!

🏞️ Family Attractions

4. Heights of Abraham (Matlock Bath)Take a cable car to the summit, explore underground caverns, and learn about the area’s mining history – all with epic views. It’s an exciting day out for all ages.

5. Chatsworth House & FarmyardMore than just a stately home, Chatsworth offers garden mazes, sculpture trails, and a brilliant adventure playground. Kids will love meeting the animals in the farmyard, and grown-ups can sneak in a scone (or two) from the café.

6. Crich Tramway VillageStep back in time and ride vintage trams through a recreated Edwardian village. It’s charming, quirky, and unexpectedly brilliant for a family day out.

⛏️ Caves & Caverns

7. Blue John Cavern (Castleton)Unearth the magic beneath the Peak District with a guided tour of this famous cave system, home to the rare Blue John stone. Great for rainy-day exploring.

8. Speedwell CavernBoard a boat and glide through an underground canal to a hidden chamber deep within the hillside – a hit with adventurers young and old!

🍦 WanderFuel – Local Treats

No family day out is complete without a treat…

• Hope Valley Ice Cream: Locally made, with flavours like Bakewell Tart and Yorkshire Rhubarb.

• The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop: Stop off in Bakewell and try the famous dessert (yes, it’s different from a Bakewell tart!)

• Tilly’s of Castleton: A cute tearoom with homemade cakes and lunch options after a big walk.

  
  

🚴 Bonus Tip: Explore on Two Wheels

Hire bikes and take on the Monsal Trail – a traffic-free, family-friendly route through old railway tunnels and stunning dales. It’s flat, scenic, and full of Insta-worthy pit stops.

Stay Adventurous with WanderHosts

At WanderHosts, we don’t just offer places to stay – we help families and explorers unlock the best of the UK. Our Peak District properties are cosy, well-equipped, and perfectly placed for your next big (or little!) adventure.

Ready to plan your stay? Browse our handpicked Peak District holiday lets and start building memories that last a lifetime.