The Peak District is home to several National Trust sites that showcase the natural beauty, history, and cultural heritage of the region. Here are some of the National Trust sites in the Peak District:
- Lyme Park, House, and Garden: Located near Disley in Cheshire, Lyme Park is a grand estate with a magnificent 16th-century mansion. The house, surrounded by beautiful gardens and a deer park, offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyles of past generations.
- Ilam Park and Dovedale: Ilam Park is a picturesque estate nestled along the River Manifold. Visitors can explore the Italianate gardens, woodlands, and parkland. The nearby Dovedale is renowned for its stunning limestone rock formations and walking trails.
- Longshaw, Burbage, and the Eastern Moors: This vast area includes woodlands, heathlands, and moorlands in the eastern Peak District. Longshaw Estate offers walking trails, a visitor center, and a tea room. It’s an excellent spot for outdoor activities and wildlife watching.
- Kinder Estate: This rugged landscape is a part of the Kinder Scout plateau, known for its gritstone edges and peat bogs. The Kinder Estate provides opportunities for challenging hikes and exploring the unique flora and fauna of the area.
- Eyam Hall and Craft Centre: The historic village of Eyam is known for its role in the plague of 1665-1666. Eyam Hall, a Jacobean manor house, is open to visitors, and the Craft Centre showcases local artisanal products.
- Hardwick Estate: Although not within the Peak District National Park boundaries, the Hardwick Estate includes Hardwick Hall, a stunning Elizabethan mansion designed by Bess of Hardwick. The estate features beautiful gardens, woodlands, and walking trails.
- Winster Market House: This historic building in the village of Winster is cared for by the National Trust. It provides insight into the village’s history and served as a market and courtroom in the past.
- Kedleston Hall: Located just outside the Peak District, Kedleston Hall is a neoclassical mansion surrounded by extensive parkland. It’s a masterpiece of 18th-century architecture and design.
- Clumber Park: Situated to the east of the Peak District, Clumber Park is a vast estate with woodlands, parkland, and a large lake. It’s a great place for outdoor activities, including walking, cycling, and picnicking.
- South Peak Estate: This estate encompasses various areas in the southern Peak District, including Calke Abbey and other countryside properties. Calke Abbey is a historic house with gardens and parkland that provides a glimpse into the decline of the English country house.
These National Trust sites in and around the Peak District offer a diverse range of experiences, from exploring historic houses and gardens to embarking on outdoor adventures in some of the most stunning natural landscapes in England. Each site provides a unique opportunity to discover the heritage and beauty of the Peak District and its surroundings.