The Peak District is one of the UK’s most loved walking destinations, attracting visitors year-round with its dramatic landscapes, peaceful valleys, scenic trails, and charming villages. Whether you are planning gentle countryside strolls, challenging hill walks, or long-distance hiking adventures, choosing the right place to stay can make your trip even more enjoyable.
From cosy countryside cottages to peaceful rural retreats surrounded by nature, the Peak District offers a wide range of accommodation for walkers looking to explore the area at their own pace.
In this guide, we explore where to stay in Peak District for walking, the best areas for different types of walkers, and why countryside self catering accommodation can provide the perfect base for your next outdoor escape.
Why the Peak District Is Perfect for Walking Holidays
The Peak District was the UK’s first National Park and remains one of the country’s top destinations for walkers and outdoor enthusiasts. With rolling hills, limestone valleys, gritstone edges, woodland trails, reservoirs, and scenic villages, there is something here for every level of walker.
The area offers:
- Hundreds of walking routes
- Family-friendly countryside trails
- Challenging hikes and hill walks
- Canal-side walks
- Dog-friendly walking areas
- Scenic viewpoints and nature reserves
- Historic villages and country pubs
Many visitors return to the Peak District year after year because every season offers a completely different experience. Spring and summer bring colourful landscapes and longer walking days, while autumn and winter create peaceful scenery and cosy countryside escapes.
Best Areas to Stay in Peak District for Walking
1. Staffordshire Peak District
The Staffordshire side of the Peak District is ideal for walkers looking for quieter trails, peaceful scenery, and countryside accommodation away from the busiest tourist areas.
This part of the Peak District is known for:
- Woodland walks
- Canal-side routes
- Rolling hills and valleys
- Wildlife-rich countryside
- Scenic villages
- Easy access to walking trails
One of the advantages of staying in the Staffordshire Peak District is the relaxed atmosphere. You can enjoy beautiful walking routes without the crowds often found in busier areas of the National Park.
Popular walking locations nearby include:
- The Roaches
- Dovedale
- Churnet Valley
- Manifold Valley
- Caldon Canal trails
For walkers who enjoy nature, peaceful surroundings, and self catering accommodation, this region is an excellent choice.
2. Bakewell
Bakewell is one of the most popular towns in Peak District and makes a good base for walkers wanting easy access to shops, cafés, restaurants, and nearby walking trails.
Popular walks around Bakewell include:
- Monsal Trail
- Chatsworth Estate walks
- Lathkill Dale
- River Wye trails
Bakewell works well for visitors who prefer a lively town atmosphere while still being close to countryside routes.
3. Castleton
Castleton is a favourite destination for hill walkers and hikers exploring the Hope Valley area.
Nearby walking highlights include:
- Mam Tor
- Great Ridge
- Winnats Pass
- Kinder Scout
This area offers some of the Peak District’s most iconic scenery and is especially popular with experienced walkers and photographers.
4. Ashbourne & Dovedale
Ashbourne and the surrounding Dovedale area are ideal for scenic riverside walks and family-friendly walking routes.
Popular walks include:
- Dovedale stepping stones
- Thorpe Cloud
- Tissington Trail
- Ilam Park walks
This area is particularly popular with visitors looking for gentler countryside walks and picturesque scenery.
Why Self Catering Accommodation Is Ideal for Walkers
When planning a walking holiday, many visitors prefer self catering accommodation over hotels because it offers greater flexibility, comfort, and space.
Benefits of self catering accommodation include:
- Freedom to set your own schedule
- Space to store walking gear and boots
- Kitchen facilities for preparing meals
- More privacy and relaxation
- Comfortable living areas after long walks
- Better options for families and groups
- Dog-friendly accommodation availability
After a full day exploring the countryside, having your own cosy cottage to return to can make a huge difference to your overall experience.
Stay at Foxtwood Cottages for a Peak District Walking Holiday
If you are searching for peaceful accommodation for walking holidays in the Peak District, Foxtwood Cottages provides an ideal countryside base.
Located within the Staffordshire Peak District near Froghall and the Churnet Valley, Foxtwood offers relaxing self catering cottages surrounded by woodland, canals, lakes, and scenic walking routes.
Guests staying at Foxtwood can enjoy:
- Walking routes directly from the doorstep
- Peaceful countryside surroundings
- Dog-friendly accommodation
- Woodland and canal-side walks
- Wild swimming lake
- Cosy cottages with log burners
- Outdoor seating areas and BBQ hut
- Easy access to Peak District walking trails
Foxtwood is especially popular with walkers who want to enjoy nature and quiet surroundings while still being close to some of the Peak District’s best walking locations.
Walking Routes Near Foxtwood
One of the biggest advantages of staying at Foxtwood is the variety of walking routes available nearby.
Churnet Valley Walks
The Churnet Valley is known for its beautiful woodland scenery, riverside paths, and peaceful atmosphere. Walkers can enjoy a mixture of gentle countryside walks and longer hiking routes.
Caldon Canal Walks
The nearby Caldon Canal offers scenic walking paths through the Staffordshire countryside. These routes are ideal for relaxed walks and wildlife spotting.
The Roaches
The Roaches is one of the Peak District’s most famous walking locations, offering dramatic rock formations, panoramic views, and rewarding hiking routes.
Dovedale
A short drive away, Dovedale is famous for its riverside scenery and stepping stones, making it one of the region’s most visited walking destinations.
Dog Friendly Walking Holidays in the Peak District
The Peak District is one of the UK’s top destinations for dog-friendly walking holidays. Many trails, countryside paths, and rural attractions welcome dogs, making it easy to enjoy outdoor adventures with your pet.
Choosing dog friendly self catering accommodation gives you more flexibility and comfort during your stay.
At Foxtwood, dogs are welcome, and the surrounding countryside provides endless opportunities for scenic walks and outdoor exploration.
Tips for Planning a Peak District Walking Holiday
To make the most of your trip, consider the following tips:
Choose Accommodation Close to Walking Routes
Staying near walking trails reduces travel time and allows you to explore more of the countryside.
Pack for Changing Weather
Peak District weather can change quickly, so waterproof clothing and suitable walking boots are essential.
Plan a Mix of Walks
Include both shorter scenic walks and longer hiking days to enjoy different parts of the region.
Book Dog Friendly Accommodation Early
Dog-friendly cottages are often in high demand, especially during holidays and weekends.
Allow Time to Relax
The Peak District is not only about hiking it is also about enjoying the slower pace of countryside life.
Final Thoughts
Choosing where to stay in Peak District for walking depends on the type of holiday you want to enjoy. Some visitors prefer lively towns with easy access to cafés and attractions, while others look for peaceful countryside accommodation surrounded by nature.
For walkers wanting a relaxing escape with scenic trails, woodland surroundings, canal-side walks, and cosy self catering cottages, Foxtwood offers an excellent base for exploring the Staffordshire Peak District.
Whether you are planning a weekend walking break, a family countryside holiday, or a dog-friendly hiking adventure, the Peak District remains one of the UK’s best destinations for outdoor escapes.