The Peak District is one of England’s most spectacular and best-loved landscapes, offering a unique blend of dramatic scenery, rich history and outdoor adventure. As Britain’s first national park, the Peak District National Park is a place of rolling limestone dales, wild moorland, historic villages and timeless countryside experiences. Whether you are planning a short break or a longer stay, visiting the Peak District promises unforgettable views, fresh air and endless opportunities to explore.
Perfectly positioned at the heart of the White Peak, Bakewell is widely regarded as the gateway to the Peak District. From this charming market town, visitors can easily access famous walking trails, cycling routes, picturesque villages and iconic viewpoints. With its riverside setting, independent shops and welcoming cafés, Bakewell provides the ideal base for discovering everything the Peak District has to offer.
Estimates vary concerning the number of visitors annually, but it is thought to be the second most visited National Park in the world, behind only Mt Fuji in Japan. It is split into two parts, the northern Dark Peak, which is mainly moorland and gritstone, and southern White Peak, where most of the population live and the geology is mainly limestone-based. Park boundaries were drawn up to exclude built-up areas and industrial sites, but the town of Bakewell and numerous villages were included within the boundaries, which is why Bakewell is now regarded as the capital of the Derbyshire Peak District.
Whether you’re seeking breathtaking views from windswept ridges, meandering through tranquil river valleys, discovering centuries of history in picturesque villages, or exploring hidden caverns beneath the earth, the Peak District has something unforgettable to offer every visitor.
Explore the Landscapes of the Peak District
The White Peak
The White Peak is characterised by rolling hills, limestone dales and clear rivers such as the River Wye and River Dove. This area is ideal for gentle walks, cycling on traffic‑free trails and exploring charming villages. Many of the Peak District’s most famous scenic routes, including the Monsal Trail, can be reached directly from Bakewell.
The Dark Peak
In contrast, the Dark Peak offers a wilder feel, with open moorland, peat bogs and dramatic rock formations. Popular with hikers, climbers and photographers, this area showcases the raw beauty of the Peak District and offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views in England.
Caves, Valleys & Natural Wonders
The Peak District is home to impressive limestone caves and dramatic valleys. Exploring these natural features offers a fascinating insight into the geology and history of the national park, adding depth to any visit.
Cultural Riches & Charming Villages
While the scenery draws many to the Peak District, its villages and towns are destinations in their own right. From historic Castleton, with show caves and ancient ruins, to Buxton’s elegant spa town atmosphere, there’s culture and character at every turn.
And then there’s Bakewell itself — perched on the banks of the River Wye, with mellow stone streets and a buzzing market. Known the world over for the delicious Bakewell pudding, the town is the perfect base from which to explore all corners of the Peak District. Stay in Bakewell, one of the most popular towns in the Peak District.
A few numbers….
- Over 38,000 residents living and working in the Park
- People have lived here for over 10,000 years
- Over 1,600 miles of rights of way to explore across the ‘White Peak’ and ‘Dark Peak’ areas of the national park.
- Over 30 miles of level and surfaced former railway line trails, giving access to the Park for everyone
Plan Your Peak District Visit from Bakewell
Choosing Bakewell as your base allows you to experience the very best of the Peak District while enjoying the atmosphere of a lively market town. From accommodation and dining to walking routes and local attractions, Bakewell offers everything you need for a memorable Peak District holiday.
Explore more guides, itineraries and local insights to help you make the most of your time in the Peak District, starting right here in Bakewell.
Outdoor Activities Near Bakewell
For the outdoor enthusiast Bakewell must seem like heaven on earth. Because it is the only major town in the Peak District National Park, it is the ideal base from which to enjoy a whole host of open-air activities.
