The best of the Peak District

From walking and cycling to climbing and canoeing, find out what’s on offer in Britain’s first National Park; the Peak District.

To be considered for National Park status an area is thought to require great natural beauty, high-value for open-air recreation and be quickly accessible from population centres. It’s therefore easy to see why the Peak District was the first ever designated National Park in the UK.

Situated between the bustling cities of Manchester and Sheffield, the Peak District is an ideal location for those looking to escape the city. With delightfully contrasting landscapes of moors, dales, lakes, rivers and caverns there’s plenty of opportunities to take part in a fantastic range of activities.

Take a look at some of our favourite courses and physical challenges that you can take on in the Peak District.

Rock climbing and abseiling

With miles and miles of golden gritstone edges, the Peak District National Park is one of the finest places in the world for single pitch rock climbing. Enjoy either a half or full day rock climbing and abseiling at one of two wonderful Peak District locations; Windgather rocks and Cadshaw Castle. For more information, read local climbing guide Richard Goodey's advice on rock climbing in the Peak District. 

Canadian Canoeing

Enjoy a full or half-day open canoe session in the Peak District and spend hours having fun, getting wet and playing games. Enjoy a taster journey with friends, family or by yourself in a comfortable, stable and relaxing way to cover great distances, which may just be the different activity you've been looking for.

Mountain adventure scramble day

Discover some of the most adventurous ways of climbing a mountain with a Peak District scrambling adventure! Staying off the beaten track, we'll be on the hunt for the most exciting ways to ascend the hills of the Peak District.
 

Looking for a bigger challenge?

Check out the physical challenges and events taking place in and around the peak district and push yourself further! 

Edale skyline challenge

Take in the Dark Peak’s highest ridges, trails and summits as you walk this circular route across fantastically varied terrain. You'll enjoy postcard views of Edale Valley as you tackle this 21-mile hike in the Peak District. 

The Peak district challenge

Trek or run the scenic trails of the southern peak district, following a circular route in the valleys of the dark peak. There are gold, silver and bronze challenges to take on; which will you choose?

Peak District Challenge Gold – 100km
Peak District Challenge Silver – 75km
Peak District Challenge Bronze – 50km

Sheffield Half Marathon

Not many major UK running events take in a National Park along the way! As the runners head out of the city, those who conquer the climb to Ringinglow will be rewarded with stunning views of the Peak District! Take on one of the UK’s biggest half marathons for a wonderful cause by signing up for one of our featured charities:

COMBAT STRESS - for veterans' mental health.

VICTIM SUPPORT - support victims of crime or traumatic events

WORLD CANCER RESEARCH FUND - making huge steps in cancer prevention research

Want to find out more about Britain's National Parks?

Check out our other articles celebrating our beautiful National Parks.

Wales National Parks
Scotland National Parks
South Coast National Parks
Lake District National Park