Spectacular Peaks, Chatsworth House & The High Life

Itinerary

Itinerary

Day 1: We arrive at the stunning Mercure Sheffield Kenwood Hotel and Spa in time for dinner.

Day 2: We begin our day in the pretty town of Buxton, which has attracted visitors for centuries to drink and bathe in its thermal mineral water. In a town whose history is shaped by water, the Buxton Crescent Experience is a boutique attraction that reveals the story of this special spa town. Throughout nine interactive rooms inside the iconic Grade I listed Buxton Crescent you will learn about the history of the town, its renowned water and the remarkable restoration of the Crescent building. After our visit there will be free time for lunch before making our way to The Forest Distillery at the Cat & Fiddle for a distillery tour and tasting. Our visit includes an informal tour of the UK’s Highest Altitude Distillery, with drinks, tastings and a chance to hear about the history of this award-winning spirit producer and its special blend of wild foraged ingredients from the surrounding Macclesfield Forest.

 Day 3: We journey into the heart of the Peak District National Park and embark on a scenic drive to the impressive Ladybower Reservoir. With dramatic views of the Upper Derwent Valley, the majestic reservoir is renowned for its iconic plug holes and the drowned villages of Derwent and Ashopton, that lie beneath its waters. Later this morning, step aboard a heritage locomotive for our one-way Peak Rail journey from Rowsley to Matlock. Experience the sights and sounds of steam or diesel as we travel through the beautiful and rugged Derwent Valley. On arrival, there will be time in Matlock to explore this charming Victorian spa town before making the short journey south to Matlock Bath. This lively town was developed as one of England’s first true tourist destinations and by the 19^th Century was well established as a place for the finest in society to be seen. Today, the long high street is lined with quirky shops, cafes, amusement arcades and visitor attractions as well as peaceful paths for shady strolls along the river.

 Day 4: Today we travel to Chatsworth House & Gardens. One of the greatest houses of the Elizabethan age, the house showcases a unique collection of furniture, tapestries and embroideries, a magnificent painted hall, staterooms and galleries. The 105-acre gardens are magnificent in the spring and summer months retaining many historical attributes alongside modern landscape design with sculptures and water features. This afternoon, we travel into the Peak DistrictNational Park to explore the charming town of Bakewell. Idyllically situated on the banks of the River Wye, this historic market town is home to mellow stone buildings, quaint courtyards and a medieval five arch bridge. Make sure you take time to treat yourself to a tasting of the world-famous, original Bakewell pudding.

 Day 5: After breakfast this morning, we make our way home.

Chatsworth House

Kenwood Hall Hotel

Accommodation

Mercure Sheffield Kenwood Hall Hotel & Spa

Nestled in 12 acres of stunning grounds and a short drive from Sheffield city centre, Mercure Sheffield Kenwood Hall Hotel and Spa offers the perfect mix of comfort and tranquillity.

The restaurant is light and airy and the bar area offers plenty of comfortable seating. The beautiful gardens, with their own lake, are meticulously landscaped.

All rooms are en-suite with TV, tea and coffee making facilities, hairdryer and free WiFi. Leisure facilities include an indoor swimming pool, gym, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room. There is a lift at the hotel.