Sarah The Hope Valley is a beautiful region in the heart of the Peak District National Park, known for its stunning scenery, picturesque villages, and abundance of outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing break in the countryside or an action-packed adventure, the Hope Valley has something to offer everyone.
Things to do
- Visit the villages: The Hope Valley is home to several charming villages, each with its own unique character. Hope is the largest village in the valley and is known for its beautiful church and Saxon cross. Castleton is a popular tourist destination, with its hilltop Norman castle, show caverns, and picturesque Peak District scenery. Eyam is known as the ‘Plague Village’ due to its heroic sacrifice during the plague outbreak of 1665-1666. Hathersage is a popular centre for outdoor pursuits, such as climbing, walking, and cycling.
- Go for a walk: The Hope Valley is crisscrossed with walking trails to suit all abilities. One of the most popular walks is the Great Ridge Walk, which takes you from Mam Tor to Losehill, with stunning views over the valley and surrounding countryside. Other popular walks include the Kinder Scout walk and the Winnats Pass walk.
- Visit the caves: The Hope Valley is home to several impressive limestone caves, including Peak Cavern and Treak Cliff Cavern. These caves offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s geological history and are a great place to explore on a hot summer day.
- Visit Ladybower Reservoir: Ladybower Reservoir is a man-made reservoir situated in the heart of the Hope Valley. It’s a popular spot for sailing, canoeing, and fishing, and also offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
- Visit the Dambusters Museum: The Dambusters Museum in Derwent is dedicated to the Dambusters raid of 1943, when a squadron of Lancasters attacked German dams using specially designed bouncing bombs. The museum tells the story of the raid and the brave men who carried it out.
Food and drink
The Hope Valley has a good selection of pubs, restaurants, and cafes to choose from. For a traditional pub meal, try the Peak Hotel in Castleton or the George Hotel in Hathersage. For something more special, try the Riverside Restaurant in Hope or the Grouse Inn at Padley.
Accommodation
There is a wide range of accommodation available in the Hope Valley, from camping and caravan sites to self-catering cottages and luxury hotels. Some popular options include:
- Losehill House Hotel & Spa
- The Peak Hotel
- The George Hotel
- Eyam Hall Hotel
- Hope Cottage
- Peak Meadow Camping
Getting there
The Hope Valley is well-connected by public transport. The Hope Valley Railway Line runs through the valley, with stations at Hope, Castleton, and Hathersage. There are also regular bus services to and from the major towns and cities in the Peak District.
Tips for visitors
- The Hope Valley can be very busy during the peak summer months, so it’s best to book your accommodation in advance.
- If you’re planning on doing any walking, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, and bring plenty of water and snacks.
- The weather in the Peak District can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to pack a raincoat and warm clothes, even in the summer.
- The Hope Valley is a great place to explore on foot or by bike, but you can also get around by car or public transport.
Enjoy your visit!
The Hope Valley is a beautiful and diverse region with something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing break in the countryside or an action-packed adventure, the Hope Valley is the perfect place to visit.
