A self-catering holiday in the Peak District and Derbyshire offers you the flexibility to enjoy the beautiful countryside at your own pace. All our luxury cottages in this beautiful part of England are well placed to make the most of the stunning countryside, attractions including historic stately homes and charming towns.
Many of our holiday cottages also come with gorgeous rural views, log burners for cosying up beside in the evening and even hot tubs for relaxing after a day spent strolling through the countryside.
The Peak District is a national park with beautiful scenery, charming towns and plenty of outdoor adventures to get stuck into. It’s a very popular destination with walkers and there are miles of trails to follow that take in gorgeous views, dramatic rocky landscapes and ancient stone monuments. Meanwhile, there are vibrant market towns steeped in history and elegant stately homes to discover.
We’ve put together our suggestions for the best places to visit in the Peak District on your luxury cottage holiday. These include the former spa town of Buxton, famous for its spring water and where you can spend an evening at the Opera House, plus Bakewell with its pretty, medieval bridge that crosses the river.
If you’d prefer to be a little more rural the Hope Valley offers incredible scenery and walking terrain and is a great place for outdoor adventures including mountain-biking and horse-riding.
The Peak District is a splendid destination for escaping the city life and enjoying a more laid-back pace, whether exploring towns and villages, or getting out into the great outdoors.
If you enjoy history and culture, you will find it here in spades. Visit the stately home of Chatsworth House, backdrop for TV’s period drama Pride and Prejudice, or for something a bit different head below ground for a tour of Treak Cliff Cavern, famous for its Blue John stone.
If you’re looking to relax, Buxton offers spa facilities and tranquil boat trips on the lake, meanwhile Bakewell is a fantastic place to sample a slice of the very moreish Bakewell Tart and a cup of tea as you watch the world go by. However, if you want to explore and have plenty of energy to burn, the Monsal Trail is a popular place for long walks.
Want to know when the best times to visit the Peak District are? Our month-by-month guide of reasons to go is full of inspiration to help you plan your luxury cottage holiday. From avoiding the crowds to finding bustling festivals, certain months are best.
If you like outdoor adventure the Peak District National Park is full of walking trails and cycling routes that promise stunning views across vast landscapes. If you want to see the classic image of the moors covered in heather, then take a look at August.
However, there are plenty of vibrant, annual events to make a beeline for including the Bakewell Food Festival, perfect if you like to sample the best of local produce, including the delicious Bakewell Tarts. Meanwhile, the world-renowned Buxton International Festival is a must if you like opera, music and literature.
Luxury Cottages with Hot Tubs in the Peak District
Unwind in the Peak District with our collection of luxury cottages with hot tubs for a luxurious touch to your holiday. Whether you are looking for a romantic weekend for two or a family holiday for a week, we have cottages to suit you. Relaxing in a bubbling hot tub surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens or views over the countryside is the perfect way to finish a long day out exploring the Peak District.
Providing one of the best spots in the UK for a dog-friendly break, the Peak District is home to miles and miles of vast landscapes. The entire family, your beloved pooch included, can explore moors, dales, rivers, caverns, springs and much more together here. Our collection of Peak District dog-friendly luxury cottages offers self-catering accommodation with spacious gardens, cosy living rooms, some with log burners, and comfy bedrooms to accommodate you all in style.
A cottage with a log burner is a wonderful choice for an autumn or winter break when the weather can leave you feeling chilled. After a day out walking in the countryside or ambling around quaint villages, there is nothing more inviting than getting cosy beside the flickering flames.
Pour yourself a glass of red or whip up a hot chocolate to enjoy and get ready for an evening in watching TV and nibbling on local treats from the deli. Bliss.
FAQs
The Peak District is a stunning national park in the heart of England, covering parts of Derbyshire, Cheshire, Staffordshire, Greater Manchester, and Yorkshire. It’s known for dramatic landscapes, limestone dales, rugged moorlands, and historic villages, making it one of the most scenic destinations in the UK.
Luxury Cottages highlights a wide range of activities:
Walking & Hiking: From gentle trails to challenging climbs, the park is a walker’s paradise.
Cycling: Scenic trails like the Monsal Trail are perfect for family rides.
Cultural Visits: Explore charming villages, historic market towns and stately homes such as Chatsworth House.
Adventure Activities: Caving, climbing and outdoor pursuits for thrill-seekers.
Food & Drink: Enjoy cosy pubs, local produce and classic Bakewell tarts.
Relaxation: Many cottages provide luxury wellness experiences for unwinding after a day exploring
The White Peak offers rolling hills and green valleys, while the Dark Peak showcases dramatic gritstone edges. Popular scenic areas include Dovedale, Mam Tor and the Great Ridge, Castleton, and the Derwent Valley. Each area offers a distinct charm — from tranquil riverside walks to breathtaking panoramas.
Luxury Cottages suggests several memorable routes:
Mam Tor & The Great Ridge – one of the most iconic walks with sweeping views.
Dovedale Stepping Stones – ideal for families and peaceful strolls.
Monsal Trail – a converted railway line, flat and accessible.
Stanage & Bamford Edge – perfect for dramatic ridge walks and photographers.
Derwent Valley Trails – scenic paths through reservoirs and woodland.
Consider:
Location – pick between remote countryside or vibrant villages.
Size & Style – from cosy retreats for two to large houses for groups.
Amenities – such as hot tubs, log fires or spa features.
Proximity to attractions – ideal if you prefer to explore on foot rather than drive. Luxury Cottages’ Peak District collection includes handpicked properties that balance comfort, luxury, and convenience.
Some areas can be explored using local buses and trains, particularly along the Hope Valley Line. For walkers, many trails link villages, allowing point-to-point hikes. Taxis and bike hire are also good options, especially for shorter distances. However, rural areas have limited public transport, so planning ahead is recommended.
According to Luxury Cottages, the best time depends on what you want:
Spring & Summer – ideal for hiking, cycling, and enjoying blooming landscapes.
Autumn – offers fewer crowds, crisp air, and vibrant foliage.
Winter – quieter and atmospheric, especially for cosy cottage stays, though weather can be unpredictable. Each month brings unique experiences, from heather-covered moors in late summer to festive winter breaks.
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