Idyllic England: Derbyshire & the Peak District

A tour through idyllic Derbyshire and the Peak District, where rolling hills, quaint cottages, and story-filled caves set the scene. Along the way, you’ll hear tales of witches and robbers and explore some of the region’s most captivating spots – all steeped in the charm of the English countryside.

Your journey begins in Manchester, swapping city streets for open countryside as you settle into a top-of-the-range mini-coach with just a handful of fellow travellers. Guiding the way, a natural storyteller with a deep knowledge of the region, ready to share everything from historical gems to local legends and unexpected trivia. Their tales flow with the changing scenery, bringing each place vividly to life.

After being picked up in the city, you will be driven to The Peak District where your tour begins. The region of wild peaks, rugged moorlands, and pretty time-worn cottages. The Peak District was the UK’s first national park in 1951 and is still one of the most beautiful landscapes in the country.

First stop, Eyam, the village that made a remarkable choice when the plague struck in 1665 – to isolate itself and stop the spread. Today Eyam is a lively village with fairytale-like cottages, marked with plaques listing the names of the plague victims. This might sound a little doom and gloom but the village represents solidarity and strength. It’s a charming and beautiful place to spend the day – perfect for soaking up the history and uncovering the stories woven into its streets.

Following that, you better have a sweet tooth, because the next stop is Bakewell, home of one of England’s most famous desserts: the Bakewell Pudding. The tour will pause here for lunch and a little look around. 

After lunch, the tour continues to Mosal Head. It is here where you will be able to visit the beautiful old rail line viaduct, which seems to rise straight from the green hills themselves.  It’s a stunning piece of engineering with a view to match.

Next stop: the postcard-perfect town of Castleton, the epitome of traditional English charm. Stroll its streets or venture into Peak Cavern – once a hideout for thieves, now a place for tales of old, and occasionally, live music echoing through its ancient chambers.

To round off the day, you’ll return to Manchester via the legendary Snake Pass – a winding mountain road carved by engineer Thomas Telford in 1821. With sweeping valley views and heather-clad hills, it’s the perfect final chapter to a day of history, scenery, and storytelling.