Most romantic things to do in the Peak District & Derbyshire

Love is in the air, so why not come and celebrate in the Peak District and Derbyshire? There is no better time to sweep someone off their feet than on 14 February, the most romantic day of the year. If you're planning a Valentine's trip, you'll never be short of romantic things to do and places to stay! Whether you wish to take things at a slower pace or enjoy some of the area's best visitor attractions and outdoor activities, you will fall head over heels in love...
Extend your stay and plan a unique, magic and memorable stay in some of our romantic places to stay.

Enjoy a Penguin Experience at Peak Wildlife Park

Because nothing says love like a penguin! Give a gift your loved one will never forget and plan an amazing Penguin Experience for Two at Peak Wildlife Park. This hands-on, behind-the-scenes visit to the penguins is the perfect treat for animal lovers. See a penguin's bedroom, the layout of their new walkthrough and work with the keepers to care for Peak Wildlife Park’s Humboldt colony, before exploring everything this award-winning wildlife park has to offer.

Take a romantic cable car ride to the Heights of Abraham, Matlock Bath

From 14th-16th February 2020, love will be in the air at the Heights of Abraham in Matlock Bath. Take a cable car ride across an amazing limestone gorge to the summit, where you can enjoy acoustic music on the patio, sample a special cocktail in the Vista Bar and Restaurant balcony, take in the far-reaching views and warm up around one of the fire pits. Spend the rest of the day exploring the 600 acre estate, full of woodland walks and magnificent views.

Enjoy a cosy meal for two in a Peak District pub

After a day of exploring, what better way to relax with your loved one than with a meal in a charming Peak District pub? Nestled in the heart of the Peak District, The George at Alstonefield is scenically situated just a stone's throw from Milldale and Dovedale, famed for its Stepping Stones across the River Dove. Relax by the crackling log fire and enjoy imaginative restaurant dishes, all created using the best locally-grown and carefully sourced seasonal ingredients. 

Follow in the footsteps of film stars

With an abundance of stunning stately homes and breathtaking countryside, it's little wonder that the Peak District and Derbyshire is regularly used as a backdrop for Hollywood blockbusters and TV series. Discover the area's top filming locations and recreate your favourite scenes from romantic films such as Pride and Prejudice! Head to the rugged, windswept Stanage Edge above Hathersage to step into the shoes of Keira Knightley, who played Elizabeth Bennet in the 2005 film version of Pride and Prejudice.

Watch the sun rise over Winnats Pass - or set over Ladybower Reservoir

Few Peak District views are more iconic than the outlook from Bamford Edge over Ladybower Reservoir, or of the sweeping Winnats Pass road rising out of Castleton. They’re the site of some of the best sunrises and sunsets in the UK. These tranquil spots feel a world away from the hustle and bustle and are the perfect place to capture the magnificent mists of early morning or the golden light of the evening – the perfect romantic atmosphere!

 

Enjoy a picturesque walk in the park at Chatsworth House

Known as the jewel in the Peak District’s crown, Chatsworth is one of the most romantic stately homes in the Peak District and Derbyshire. Home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, the House and its 30 magnificent rooms are closed to visitors until March, but there is nowhere better for a breathtaking walk than than the 1,000 acres of Chatsworth parkland. Wander alongside the River Derwent (and see if you can spot the estate’s famous deer herd!), then warm up with a hot chocolate and delicious, local food at the award-winning Chatstworth Estate Farm Shop.
 

Cycle along the magnificent Monsal Trail

Stretching for 8.5 miles from Bakewell to Chee Dale, the Monsal Trail is one of Derbyshire's most scenic, traffic-free cycling trails. Soak up the stunning views down Monsal Dale and up the Wye valley as you cycle over the amazing Monsal Viaduct - and soak up the views. There is cycle hire at Hassop Station and Blackwell Mill, with Hassop Station also including a fantastic cafe and gift shop (perfect for refuelling!).

Visit Castleton – and discover the unique home of Blue John Stone

Picturesque Castleton is one of the Peak District’s prettiest villages, but deep in its limestone hills you'll discover an incredible network of show caverns to explore. Head underground to see some of Europe's most impressive cave formations - and  tour the only place on the planet where you can find Blue John Stone. Above ground, browse the quaint shops in search of Blue John jewellery, ornaments and decorations to take home.

Choosing a romantic place to stay is all part of the experience. Whether you want a cosy cottage or stylish hotel, give your trip the romantic edge by finding the perfect place to stay.