High Peak Area Guide

Mountainous with spectacular green valley views, the High Peak district forms part of the Derbyshire borough. The area has many walking trails, quaint villages and open spaces making it an ideal consideration if you are looking to move away from the busy city lifestyle. We have developed a local area guide with more detail on some of the areas in the High Peak District.

Buxton

Described as “the gateway to the Peak District National Park”, Buxton is close to the county boundary with Cheshire to the west and Staffordshire to the south. Buxton has a history as a spa town due to its geothermal spring which provides therapeutic mineral water at a constant 28 degrees piped to St Ann’s Well. It is now also home to the largest spa in the UK, Buxton Crescent. Not only does the town derive revenue from the bustling local tourist trade, the water is also bottled and exported internationally. Another landmark is Poole’s Caven and the Devonshire Dome which now forms part of the University of Derby. Buxton station is a short 1-hour commute to Manchester Piccadilly.

Chapel-en-le-frith

Known as the “Capital of the Peak”, Chapel-en-le-frith formed around a chapel that was built in 1225 by the keepers of the Royal Forest. The current church stands on the site of the original after many restorations. A magnet for walkers, tourists and those seeking adventure, the High Peak provides a wonderful location in which to live and breathe. It is easily accessible via the excellent road and rail links to Manchester and Sheffield. The town boasts a wide range of independent food retailers and a good selection of restaurants, cafés and pubs whilst also being well served by convenient supermarkets.

Whaley Bridge

The town of Whaley Bridge is on the River Goyt, and is a favourite spot amongst cyclists. This tranquil location is centred around a conservation area and the Grade II* listed Transhipment Warehouse which was once a key transfer station for limestone shipped across the UK. Family-friendly walks, a large choice of pubs and the ever so popular, bridge bakehouse, makes Whaley Bridge a great community to be a part of.

Glossop

The small market town of Glossop is situated just outside the Peak District National Park, 15 miles east of Manchester. Founded on the fortunes of the cotton industry and featuring many local sandstone mills, chapels and churches, Glossop has a thriving economy boosted by the local tourist trade. A quintessential high street provides all necessary shopping conveniences and a large number of faith-based primary schools are an attraction for young families. A short train commute to Manchester makes it an attractive choice for those wishing to explore the options of rural living on the urban edge.

New Mills

New Mills is a vibrant town situated at the confluence of the rivers Goyt and Sett. Located on the edge of the stunning Peak District National Park, New Mills is only a 30-minute train journey into Manchester city centre. It is a small town with excellent local independent shops, pubs and cafes, wonderful leisure facilities and a true community feel that embraces the new while preserving the character and charm of its historical landmarks.

Castleton

The beautiful village of Castleton is situated at the head of the Hope Valley in the heart of the Peak District National Park. Known for its delightful walking paths, show caves, garland ceremony, Winnats Pass, Cave Dale and of course its history, this scenic area has much to offer. An 11th century castle overlooks the village that presents residents with excellent pubs, shops and lovely stone-built cottages amidst breathtaking views.

Edale

Edale has been voted one of the most sought-after villages in the Peak District. The residents enjoy living here for various reasons; the breathtaking views of the countryside, the community feel, the peace and tranquility of the area, and the quick commute to Sheffield and Manchester by train. Edale is best known to walkers as the start of the Pennine Way. The village is surrounded by hills with the plateau of Kinder Scout being the highest point in the parish.

Hayfield

Hayfield is a lovely village that lies in the valley of the River Sett, at the foot of Kinder Scout and on the edge of the Peak District National Park. Hayfield became a mill village from the 1700s and an original mill, Clough Mill, still stands today, now converted into accommodation. Hayfield is a lively, bustling village with an array of shops, cafes, galleries, and pubs. Hayfield has a higher rate of homeownership than the national average, alluding to the affluence of the area.