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Founded in 1951, Peak District was the first national park established in England. The park covers a massive 555 square miles, encompassing portions of Derbyshire, Cheshire, Staffordshire, York, and Manchester. It's split into two sections: the White Peak with its rolling hills, limestone walls, and pastureland and the craggy moors of the Dark Peak.

The Peak District receives over 13 million visitors a year and is particularly popular with walkers, cyclists, and horse riders due to the 1,600 miles of paths, tracks, and bridleways available as well as the postcard-perfect towns, villages, and stately homes that can be found throughout the park. Here's everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to the Peak District.

Explore Stately Homes: There’s no shortage of stately homes and historic houses in the Peak District, with many of the country’s most impressive buildings being located here including:

Tour Cromford Mills: An impressive Grade 1 listed building set in a gorgeous landscape, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cromford was the world's first water-powered cotton spinning mill and a testament to the industry that built this area. Tours and audio tours of the site are available.

Marvel at the stones of Arbor Low: One of the most important Neolithic stone circles in the UK made up of 50 limestone slabs.

Try Local Foods: There’s no shortage of famous foods to try in the Peak District. Don't miss out on Bakewell pudding from Bakewell, Hartington Stilton cheese, Ashbourne gingerbread, and Buxton pudding.

The Limestone Way: Starting at Castleton, Derbyshire, this trail runs south through the heart of the national park and ends in Rocester taking you past some of the many highlights of the Derbyshire countryside. There are pubs and cafes along the route, which takes about 48 hours to complete. Inns and B&Bs are available but make sure to book early during peak season.

High Peak and Tissington Trail: You can walk, cycle, or go horse riding down the 13-mile Tissington trail which stretches from Ashbourne to Parsley Hay. Endless rolling hills flank these former railway lines. The High Peak Trail joins Tissington from the south and heads towards Buxton.

Saddleworth Moor: The Saddleworth Moor walking route offers a number of trails that allow you to explore the sweeping valleys of the moor and the small towns and villages within it. These trails are well suited to beginner hikers. It’s also an ideal gateway to the Dark Peak.

The Roaches: This is a favorite area of hikers and climbers, offering winding trails through expansive green landscapes as well as the Ramshaw Rock formations. Reaching the top offers panoramic views of the Peak District and, on a clear day, views of Cheshire and even Snowdown in Wales. This area is also steeped in mythology. There is said to be a Blue Nymph mermaid who resides in the beautiful Doxey Pool.

Mam Tor Circular Walk: This two-hour hike to the peak of Mam Tor is an accessible way to do some hiking in the Peak District, especially if you’re short on time. Near Castleton, this is one of the most famous walks in the national park and offers one of the best views in the country.

Ridge Walk: Considered one of the best ridge walks in the U.K., this walk takes around two to three hours and starts at the car park in Castleton. The route takes you along a stone path over Treak Cliff, Blue John Cavern, the summit of Mam Tor, Back Tor, and Lose Hill Pike. You can make your way back on a slighter longer route via Hope village which offers pub grub, cafes, and a stroll along the river.

Pennine Way: The historic Pennine Way, which takes you to the Scottish border, begins in the Peak District and is considered one of the most challenging walks in the U.K. The entire route takes 20 days to complete but walking a portion of it is also an option.

Wild camping is not permitted in the Peak District though you will see people doing it anyway. However, there are some fantastic private campsites available in the Peak District with incredible views and convenient facilities. Here are a few of the best:

The Peak District offers some of the most quaint and historic boutique hotels in the country. Here are a few conveniently located options.

It is easy to access the Peak District using public transport as Sheffield, Derby, and Manchester all have major train stations and can be accessed by train or coach from anywhere in the country. Chesterfield and Buxton are also excellent access points which can be reached by train. 

Driving is also an option, with ample parking at most sites. You can rent a car in Derby or surrounding cities to make your journey around the park easier.