Postcards from the Peak District
The Peak District is one of my favourite getaways. Full of quaint villages, gorgeous walks and beautiful countryside views, it’s the perfect place to spend a long, lazy weekend. Oli and I recently headed to Bakewell for a few days with no solid plans or itinerary, and it was glorious!
The weather was perfect – crisp yet sunny. I’ve really been enjoying Autumn this year.
WHERE WE STAYED
Birchover
We wanted to stay somewhere fairly remote, but still within walking distance of a pub or two (of course). We settled on a gorgeous cottage in Birchover, a sleepy village located around 5 miles from Bakewell. The cottage had everything we wanted for a cosy weekend away – peaceful location, a log fire, and a beautiful patio space to enjoy a morning cuppa. Our host had even left us some homemade brownies for our arrival.
A view of the sunrise from our patio.
Where we walked
As much as we both love to walk, we only ended up doing 2 short routes the time we were there. We wanted a fairly chilled weekend without any pressure or worrying about our step count! (I’ve needed a bit of a mental break from the ‘wedding glow-up’).
I’ve popped the maps for the walks we did at the end of this post. Of course, you could hike for miles if you fancied something more challenging – it is the peaks, after all!
Bakewell and the Monsall Trail
A busy yet pleasant 5k that starts in Bakewell and joins the Monsall trail. It’s pretty flat so great if you have children with you! Around half way through you’ll come across Hassop Station – a cute cafe serving light lunches and cakes. There’s also a gift shop that’s well worth a look around.
Nine Ladies Circular
We loved this walk! It’s only 3.9k but there’s so much variety and beautiful views. I’d never heard of the Nine Ladies Stone Circle before – it’s like a miniature Stonehenge! According to legend, the circle represents nine women who were turned to stone as punishment for dancing on the Sabbath. While passing we came across a tree nearby that had all sorts of trinkets hanging from its branches – feathers, beads, garlands – we even spotted a spoon! I’m guessing it’s a popular spot at summer solstice.
WHERE WE ATE/DRANK
thornbridge brewery
Oli loves a pint so the Brewery was a must visit! It’s only around a 15-minute walk from Bakewell centre – we just popped in for a few drinks but I believe they do tours and experiences too (there was a pumpkin painting & Prosecco afternoon in session whilst we were there). They also sell handmade wood-fired pizzas which looked delicious.
The Flying Childers inn
This was on the list of recommendations from our Air B&B host. We stopped here for lunch before our drive home and it was one of the best meals I’ve eaten out recently! Situated in the picture-perfect village of Stanton in Peak, it had all the elements of a cosy, countryside pub – just what we were looking for. Oli and I both ordered the pie of the day which was delicious, not to mention huge! Definitely one to try if you’re in the area.
The Red Lion, Birchover
Just a five minute walk from our Air B&B, The Red Lion is a 17th-century-inn packed with locals and hikers alike. We stopped by for a drink on Saturday night then returned the next day for Sunday dinner. A generous serving of beef, crispy potatoes, rich gravy and huge Yorkshire puds – I love a roast! But the star of the show was their Honeycomb cheesecake. We shared a slice for dessert but I could have easily devoured one to myself.
The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop
A rite of passage if you’re in the Peaks! I love a Bakewell pudding so I couldn’t resist grabbing a few to take away. Fun to visit, but it’s a bit of a tourist trap so prepare to queue if you visit on the weekend.
All in all, it was just the sort of weekend we needed. Plenty of fresh air, good food and absolutely no rushing around. As always, I came home wishing we’d stayed a little longer! x
