Overview
Depart from Matlock, pausing at Bakewell before arriving in Buxton. Journey to Hayfield from New Mills to arrive at Glossop. Enjoy the Upper Derwent Valley reservoirs of Derwent and Ladybower before arriving in Chesterfield and then finishing up at Bolsover.
Matlock
The county town of Derbyshire is bisected by the River Derwent and is famous for its glorious spa past. Explore the history of the town, enjoy Crown Square or one of the many parks or head for the cable car at the Heights of Abraham.
Bakewell
Nestling on the banks of the River Wye, Bakewell, the largest town in the Peak District National Park is perhaps most famous for its Bakewell Pudding. Explore the town – “Lambton” from Pride & Prejudice – taking in the eateries and shopping whilst soaking up the atmosphere.
Buxton
Buxton, at 300m above sea level is the highest market town in England, bedecked in Georgian and Victorian architecture. Explore the thermal spring waters that have been attracting visitors for years and marvel at the Devonshire Dome – a stunning building with a larger span than St. Pauls Cathedral.
New Mills
Set in an area of outstanding natural beauty high above the natural rocky gorge known as Torrs, the market town of New Mills is the meeting point of the River Sett and River Goyt. Enjoy the scenery and explore the Sett Valley, leading to Hayfield.
Hayfield
Home of the Mass Trespass of Kinder Scout in 1932 which triggered the establishment of national parks in the UK, the market village of Hayfield at the southern end of the Pennine Chain is a popular destination for walkers and ramblers to explore the surrounding countryside.
Glossop
The north western gateway to the Peak District, Glossop at the foot of Snake Pass is an historic mill town full of eateries and independent shops and an excellent base from which to explore the surrounding countryside.
Derwent Reservoir
Set in the Upper Derwent Valley, the Derwent Reservoir is part of a set of reservoirs including Howden and Ladybower. Enjoy the scenery and take a walk to see both the Howden Dam and Derwent Dam. The latter being used to train Lancaster bomber crews before the famous Dambusters’ Raid in 1943.
Ladybower Reservoir
The lowest in the chain of Upper Derwent Valley reservoirs, Ladybower benefits from views of the spectacular surrounding countryside. Enjoy the great outdoors and get some fresh air with a walk or cycle ride. A short detour to Castleton would bring you to the Blue John Mines to see underground where the semi-precious stone has been extracted since Roman times.
Chesterfield
The historic market town of Chesterfield with a history dating to Roman times is home to the “Crooked Spire”, a 14th century church and perhaps Chesterfield’s most famous landmark. The River Hipper and River Hopper meet in the town where you explore the historic streets and a wide range of independent shops.
Bolsover
Bolsover is home to Bolsover Castle, a 17th century hill top mansion house with views of the surrounding countryside. Local antiques shops, the Food & Drink Festival and independent eateries are well worth a visit.
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