PEAK DISTRICT NATIONAL PARK

Holiday cottages in the Peak District provide an ideal base to explore this unique National Park. The Peak District National Park was the first British National Park to be created. Few areas of England can compete with the Peak District for varied attractions. Fell walking, bird watching, stately homes, theme parks, quaint market towns - something for all ages is on offer.

The Peak District, like other British national parks, is mainly privately owned, but public access to 197 sq km (76 sq mi) of the Dark Peak was secured by the park authorities in the 1950s, following organised mass trespasses on Kinder Scout and other sites during the 1930s. The Park also protects the traditions of the White Peak, including the maintenance of the dry stone walls dividing its fields and pastures and the ancient custom of well dressing, the decoration of wells with pictures made of flowers. The park is renowned for its scenery and is particularly popular with walkers because of its numerous public footpaths, including some long distance trails such as the Pennine Way. The park is one of the most heavily visited in the world.

From the rugged 'High Peak' in the North, providing excellant open moorland walks, to the softer rolling limestone 'White Peak', and to the South the Peak District has been untouched by commercialism and still retains its natural warmth and character. Stone built houses huddle together in charming villages, and the winding lanes provide some magnificent views as they make their way through beautiful countryside.

Although small the Peak District is an area of outstanding natural beauty, and all those who visit, whether on foot or by car, will be captivated by its splendid scenery. Click here to find a selection of holiday cottages in the Peak District.