The best reasons to explore Derbyshire and the Peak District this summer – including stunning walks

By Tom Hardwick

Published 5th Jul 2026, 05:20 BST

21 reasons to visit the county this summer – including stunning Peak District scenery and remarkable attractions

If you’re planning a summer trip over the coming weeks and months, then Derbyshire and the Peak District should be at the very top of your list.

From stunning areas of natural beauty to superb pubs and restaurants, Derbyshire and the Peak District offer something for everyone – perfect for a day trip destination or a weekend break.

These are 26 reasons why you should visit the Derbyshire and the Peak District National Park – the full list can be found below.

Derbyshire and the Peak District are perfect destinations for the summer months.

1. Reasons to visit Derbyshire and the Peak District this summer

Derbyshire and the Peak District are perfect destinations for the summer months. Photo: Yorkshire Post Newspapers - James Hardisty

The magnificent Chatsworth House is one of the country’s most well-known stately homes, and has been used in a number of TV shows and films - from Pride and Prejudice to Peaky Blinders. The stunning Chatsworth estate is perfect if you’re looking to explore some of the most scenic countryside that the Peak District National Park has to offer.

2. Explore an iconic country house and filming location

The magnificent Chatsworth House is one of the country’s most well-known stately homes, and has been used in a number of TV shows and films - from Pride and Prejudice to Peaky Blinders. The stunning Chatsworth estate is perfect if you’re looking to explore some of the most scenic countryside that the Peak District National Park has to offer. Photo: Brian Eyre

Bakewell is one of the most popular tourist hotspots across the Peak District - with plenty of places to shop, eat and drink. The town is also home to the Rutland Arms, once acclaimed as ‘Derbyshire’s most famous inn’, which was built in 1804 - and can count Charles Dickens among its famous visitors over the years. It is also believed that Jane Austen wrote the literary classic 'Pride & Prejudice' whilst staying at The Rutland Arms - taking inspiration from the beauty of the Peak District.

3. Sample the delights of the Peak District’s biggest town

Bakewell is one of the most popular tourist hotspots across the Peak District - with plenty of places to shop, eat and drink. The town is also home to the Rutland Arms, once acclaimed as ‘Derbyshire’s most famous inn’, which was built in 1804 - and can count Charles Dickens among its famous visitors over the years. It is also believed that Jane Austen wrote the literary classic 'Pride & Prejudice' whilst staying at The Rutland Arms - taking inspiration from the beauty of the Peak District. Photo: Anne Shelley

Wherever you are in the Peak District, beautiful scenery is guaranteed. The National Trust’s Kinder, Edale and High Peak Estate is just one place to visit for superb views - along with the likes of Curbar Edge and Ladybower Reservoir.

4. Beautiful scenery

Wherever you are in the Peak District, beautiful scenery is guaranteed. The National Trust’s Kinder, Edale and High Peak Estate is just one place to visit for superb views - along with the likes of Curbar Edge and Ladybower Reservoir. Photo: jason chadwick

Derbyshire Peak District