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Peak District
The Peak District in central and northern England was the United Kingdom's first National Park, established in 1951, and forms the southern extremity of the Pennine chain. The region is geologically divided into two distinct areas: the Dark Peak in the north, consisting of gritstone moorlands, and the White Peak in the south, characterized by limestone plateaus and deep, lush valleys. Reaching its highest point at Kinder Scout (636 meters), the park is a landscape of significant contrasts. Human activity dates back to the Neolithic period, evidenced by sites such as the Arbor Low stone circle, and the area was later vital for lead mining and the early textile industry. Today, the Peak District is one of the most visited recreational areas in the country, renowned for rock climbing on gritstone edges like Stanage Edge. Its position between the major cities of Manchester and Sheffield makes it an essential green space for surrounding urban populations.
- Location: United Kingdom, United Kingdom
- Top sights: Mam Tor Hillfort · Mam Tor · Lord's Seat bowl barrow
- Nearby: Chapel-en-le-Frith (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 3 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 11 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 6 | 4 |
| Rain mm | 83 | 70 | 64 | 56 | 68 | 86 | 92 | 96 | 72 | 93 | 90 | 90 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- It was the first National Park in the UK, established in 1951.
- The park covers an area of approximately 1,438 square kilometers.
- The highest point is Kinder Scout, reaching an elevation of 636 meters.
- It is geologically divided into the Dark Peak and the White Peak.
- Home to Blue John stone, a rare mineral found nowhere else on Earth.
- The park contains Chatsworth House, often called the Palace of the Peak.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Peak District (10)
Broken road
Viewpoint overlooking the Hope Valley and surrounding hills.
Blue John Cavern
Show cave in Derbyshire, England, famous for the Blue John fluorite.
Odin Mine
Historic lead mine in Castleton, Derbyshire, England.
Edale Methodist Chapel
Methodist chapel in Edale, High Peak, Derbyshire, England.
Treak Cliff Cavern
Show cave in Derbyshire, England, with Blue John deposits.
Speedwell Cavern
Cave in Castleton, Derbyshire, featuring an underground boat ride.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is the Peak District the first National Park?
What is the difference between Dark and White Peak?
Where is the highest point?
Are there cycling trails?
Are the villages worth visiting?
Peak District: where is it located?
Peak District: what is there to see?
Peak District: when is the best time to visit?
Peak District: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
