The Peak District - Chatsworth & Buxton: Autumn/Winter Tours

Chatsworth House

After breakfast, we drive to one of the most iconic and renowned stately homes of the Peaks, Chatsworth House. Our picturesque journey takes us through the gently rolling landscape of the Derbyshire countryside as we head to the impressive home of the Cavendish family, whose sixteen generations have owned the property since 1549.

Against an impressive backdrop of densely wooded hills and rugged heather-clad moorland, this magnificent honey stone building is simply breathtaking, with the perfect symmetry of its grand façade, acres of carefully tended grounds and glorious vistas at every turn. There will be plenty of time to explore the extravagant interior with its regal state rooms and opulent Painted Hall.

Step back in time as you wander the gleaming marble floors, taking in the extraordinary frescoes, intricate sculptures and sweeping staircase. Admire a vast collection of artworks spanning 4,000 years of history, from Roman and Egyptian treasures to priceless masterpieces by a host of artists from Rembrandt to Lucian Freud. Take a stroll through its beautifully designed gardens of sweeping lawns, neatly manicured maze, and regimented borders, pausing to admire what is undoubtedly one of the grandest houses in England.

Throughout November and December, the house will be transformed with beautiful Christmas displays, which we will experience during our visit. We return to Buxton in the afternoon. 

Bakewell, Cromford Mills & Afternoon Tea

This morning we drive to nearby Bakewell with free time to explore this picturesque market town. Located on the banks of the river Wye, with a fine arched medieval bridge, it’s a true delight to wander the historic streets fringed with pretty stone buildings, independent shops, galleries and inviting cafés. Make sure you sample some Bakewell Pudding too; unlike the better-known Bakewell tart, the celebrated pudding is made with a puff pastry base before being filled with a signature almond mix.

Later we continue to Cromford Mills, nestled in the heart of the Derwent Valley to find out more about the Peak District’s fascinating industrial history. Founded in 1771 by Sir Richard Arkwright, the innovative mill rose to fame, becoming the birthplace of the modern factory system and the first successful water-powered cotton spinning mill in the world.  

We then enjoy a scenic drive through the Peak District to Dovedale where the river Dove winds a spectacular path through this stunning limestone valley, and we will have afternoon tea whilst soaking up the views.

Bolsover Castle

This morning we head to Bolsover Castle, dramatically perched on a hilltop overlooking the Vale of Scarsdale. Built on the site of a medieval fortress, and based on a Norman great tower, this magnificently preserved castle was built as a fashionable retreat for 17th-Century courtiers to entertain influential guests.

Explore this fairy-tale Stuart mansion with its quirky turrets and towers and grand interior, absorbing the remarkably preserved wall paintings, stunning ceiling frescoes and opulent marble fireplaces. Take a walk along the ancient walls taking in the panoramic views and stroll the restored Fountain Garden, enjoying the colour and scent of a whole spectrum of plants and shrubs and visit the superb Riding House, one of the country’s oldest and most complete with a spectacular roof and viewing galleries.

We return to Buxton in the afternoon.

Return Home

After breakfast, return home with delightful memories of Derbyshire, perhaps taking a stroll around the Pavilion Gardens or booking in at a local thermal spa before you leave.