Peak District

Scenic Drives

The Peak District is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, making it perfect for scenic drives. Here is a handful of the best-known and well-loved scenic drives:

• Snake Pass: This iconic hill pass crosses the Pennines from Glossop to the Ladybower Reservoir, reaching heights of 1,679 feet. The drive offers sweeping views of the surrounding hills and valleys, making it a favourite for motorists and cyclists alike. It’s described as a “thrilling drive” with tight beds, steep hills, and breath taking views of the countryside.
• Winnats Pass: Known for its dramatic limestone valley, this route is rich in fossils and offers spectacular views. It’s one of the most picturesque drives in the Peak District, providing a stunning natural backdrop.
• Dovedale: While not a specific drive, the area around Dovedale is one of the Peak District’s most popular beauty spots. The winding roads here take you through charming villages and past rolling hills, perfect for a leisurely drive.

These drives highlight the Peak District's natural beauty, allowing road trippers to immerse themselves in its diverse landscapes. There are many more scenic routes to take across the Peaks.

Picturesque Towns and Villages

A road trip through the Peak District is incomplete without exploring its charming towns and villages, nestled in the valleys and surrounded by beautiful countryside. Each town and village has its own unique story, offering ambience, attractions and a glimpse into local life. From historic landmarks to scenic beauty and local delicacies, there's something for every road tripper to enjoy. Here is just an overview of a small handful:

• Bakewell: Famous for its iconic Bakewell Pudding, this historic town features picturesque riverside settings and architectural gems. Enjoy strolling through the quaint streets, visiting local shops, and sampling the sweet dessert, which consists of layers of jam, frangipane, and flaky pastry.
• Buxton: Buxton is a historic spa town in the Peak District, renowned for its Georgian and Victorian architecture. The town's highlight is the Grade I listed Buxton Crescent, reflecting its rich heritage as a spa destination. Buxton is also home to the beautiful Pavilion Gardens, a 23-acre public park with landscaped gardens, lakes, and a Victorian conservatory. Cultural enthusiasts will appreciate the Buxton Opera House hosting the annual Buxton Festival. The town's natural mineral water and its location as a gateway to the Peak District's stunning landscapes make it a perfect stop on any road trip.
• Castleton: Nestled in the hills, Castleton offers a perfect snapshot of traditional Peak District life. Known for its stunning scenery, Castleton is home to intriguing attractions like the ancient Peveril Castle and the fascinating Blue John Cavern. The village's charming streets are lined with cosy pubs, tea rooms, and local shops, making it a delightful stop on your journey.
• Eyam: Known as the "Plague Village," Eyam's poignant history and well-preserved architecture make it a compelling visit. The village's museums and landmarks tell the courageous story of its residents' self-imposed quarantine during the bubonic plague of 1665.
• Edale: The starting point of the Pennine Way, Edale is a haven for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, it offers numerous walking trails and spectacular views.

The Peak District Fully-Flexible Itinerary

Make the most out of your Swift road trip to the Peak District. Uncover Britain has created a flexible Peak District route and a comprehensive travel online guide, with several maps, that will help you plan your perfect motorhome or campervan holiday. Explore the Peak District with this versatile guide offering two distinct routes: one around the majestic "White Peaks" and another through the breathtaking Hope Valley. These routes collectively span 70 miles (112km) and take approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes to drive. Featuring 7 of the most scenic drives in the Peak District, our guide allows you to tailor your itinerary from 3 days to 2 weeks, ensuring you make the most of your road trip. Discover the highlights of the Peak District at your own pace, choosing from a diverse selection of attractions and scenic spots.

The itinerary covers 25 destinations and locations, with 12 months of access on 2 devices. The route can be tweaked to 3-14 days, to suit your available time frame. Maps include places of interest, hidden gems and more, plus an overnight stay map. Check out the Peak District route to purchase and get instant access. Get 10% off this or any other guide in the library using the code: swiftgo10 / swift10 (expires 31.12.2025). Road trip guides start at £8.99.