Best campsites in the Peak District National Park
Here are our expert-recommended campsites and attractions in the English Peak District.
The Peak District was the first National Park in the UK and, for many years, the most visited (until the South Downs was recognised as a National Park in 2010). It is conveniently located between Manchester, Sheffield and Nottingham, making it perfect for a short camping getaway or a longer caravan holiday.
Centrally located in the heart of England, the Peak District National Park was established in 1951, becoming the country's first National Park. Covering over 500 square miles, the park stretches from Huddersfield in the North to Ashbourne in the South. Popular tourist attractions in the region include Last of the Summer Wine Country, Ladybower Reservoir (location of the 1955 film, the Dam Busters), the Caverns of Castleton and towns of Hathersage and Matlock Bath.
Campsites can be found throughout the Peak District, with clusters of campsites found around the Hope Valley, Bakewell and Buxton.
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Found at the Southern end of the Pennines, the Peak District is split into two distinct regions, the 'Dark Peak' in the North and the 'White Peak' in the South. The Dark Peak features peaty uplands and is generally the more rugged, wilder and baren of the two, while the White Peak is formed on a Limestone Plateau with softer, more gently rolling countryside.
Top 3 Peak District Attractions
Chatsworth House and Gardens
Home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, Chatsworth House is just a short drive north of Bakewell and stands on the River Derwent. Regularly voted Britain's favourite country house, a trip to the Peak District wouldn't be complete without a visit to this 18th century stately home.
The gardens are a big attraction, with the towering Cascade water feature, the Rockeries, and Capability Brown's lawns being particular highlights. In the main house, 26 of the 126 rooms may be visited by the public, and these include the baroque style State Apartments and Drawing Room completed in 1694 and the largest room of the house, the Painted Hall.
The Caves and Caverns of Castleton
The attractive village of Castleton is home to four spectacular 'Show Caves'
Peak Cavern is home to the largest cave entrance in the UK. Also known as the 'Devils Arse', a trip to this cave will undoubtedly amuse the more juvenile members of your party! Blue John Cavern is named after the deposits of Blue John, which can be found through the area. An attractive blue fluor-spar mineral, it continues to be mined today. Speedwell Cavern is a 200-year-old lead mine featuring a 450m boat ride to the awe-inspiring underground lake, the 'Bottomless Pit. Treak Cliff Cavern is arguably the most popular and is home to some impressive stalagmite and stalactite formations.
Nearby Mam Tor, locally known as the Shivering Mountain (it's prone to landslides), can be visited on a 6½ mile circular walk, starting from the village.
Bakewell
Derbyshire and the Peak District is well known for its delicious local treats. None more so than Bakewells eponymous tart. Jam and frangipane, topped with almonds in a shortbread case, delicious!
Nearby the Monsal Trail offers 8.5 miles of traffic free walking, cycling or horse riding along the former Midland Railway line. You shouldn't miss Monsal Viaduct, nor the four fully accessible tunnels make this a unique experience with views of the spectacular limestone dales; however, you choose to experience it.
Top 10 Peak District Camping Options
The Chatsworth Caravan and Motorhome Club site is set within the old walled garden on the edge of the picturesque Chatsworth Estate. A gate from...
This spacious caravan park on a hill above Matlock has 122 terraced pitches, all on hardstandings and with 16A electricity. Most have good countryside views...
Ashbourne Heights is set on high, flat ground in the Peak District National Park with marvellous views. The site provides 260 spacious and carefully positioned...
Lime Tree is in a convenient, edge of town location that makes a very good base for touring the Peak District. The site has three...
Conveniently situated for the Peak District, yet nestling peacefully in the idyllic valley floor, Buxton Caravan and Motorhome Club Site is the ideal location for...
Included in our guides:
2022
The Grouse and Claret Caravan Park is a very picturesque site with a riverside setting. It is located to the rear of the pub and...
Situated just north of the market town of Ashbourne, Callow Top has an attractive setting in an elevated countryside position. The park’s location makes it...
Included in our guides:
2021
Greenhills Caravan & Camping Park is a beautiful site set within 12 acres of rolling Derbyshire countryside, surrounded by the slopes of the lower Wye...
Ashbourne Camping & Caravanning Club site is ideal if you are planning a holiday in the Peak District. Known locally as the gateway to Dovedale...