The most romantic things to do in the Peak District and Derbyshire for Valentine's Day

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

Head to the Heights of Abraham and take a romantic cable car ride to the summit, wander along woodland paths, enjoy a drink around the fire-pits, listen to ambient music, take a guided tour through show caves, dine in the Vista Restaurant, book an afternoon tea or enjoy a glass of fizz in the bar, surrounded by twinkling lights. In the evening, wander down to Matlock Bath Winter Illuminations on the River Derwent (nightly until March).

Camp under the stars

Few things are more memorable than camping or caravanning in the great outdoors. As the sun sets, you can enjoy an al fresco meal for two before cosying-up in tranquil surroundings to star-gaze at the night sky. Camping and caravanning is the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, and a unique alternative to a traditional romantic break. The Camping and Caravanning Club has 8 beautiful sites in the Peak District and Derbyshire – at Ashbourne, Bakewell, Leek, Hayfield, Crowden, Conkers, Teversal and Alton, The Star.

Enjoy a special Valentine tasting menu at the Red Lion, Peak Edge Hotel

On Valentine’s Day, indulge in a delicious 8 course menu, prepared with passion and served with style. Nestled on the edge of the beautiful Peak District National Park, the historic Red Lion restaurant boasts a warm, friendly, relaxed atmosphere serving a fresh and local menu. A relaxed space to eat, drink it's a perfect pick for a romantic evening.

Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in the charming atmosphere of the magnificent Buxton Cresent Hotel

The Ensana Buxton Crescent is the reincarnation of two once-upon-a-time, grand and gracious hotels, The contemporary restaurant is the perfect elegant setting for your afternoon treat. The team will spoil you with a homemade selection of freshly cut finger sandwiches, warm scones with jam and clotted cream with an array of sweet treats. Splash out on the sparkling afternoon tea to mark the occasion with a glass of bubbles alongside your sweet and savoury treats.

Go on a walk in the park at Chatsworth House

Described as the jewel in the Peak District’s crown, Chatsworth is one of the most romantic stately homes in Derbyshire and the Peak District. Though the House – home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire – is closed until March, there are few places better suited to a romantic walk than the 1,000 acres of Chatsworth parkland. Wander by the River Derwent (whilst looking out for 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.

Buy a bottle of locally-made wine or beer

If you ask anyone what the most essential ingredients for a romantic evening are, most people will include a bottle of wine – and what better way to impressed your loved one than with a thoughtful gift of a locally-produced wine, made with grapes grown right here in the Peak District and Derbyshire! Renishaw Hall Wine and Amber Valley Wines are two great local producers, and we promise you’ll taste the difference. Beer-lovers are well-catered for too (think Peak Ales and Thornbridge Brewery).

Stroll – or catch a horse-drawn boat – along Cromford Canal

What better way to spend the day with your valentine than taking a trip to one of our most beautiful canals? Enjoy a picturesque waterside stroll along Cromford Canal, which stretches for five miles, whilst spotting wildlife and admiring the views. The northern stretch of the canal lies within the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site and for an extra-special touch, on certain days visitors can take a trip on an historic canal boat, which is sometimes horsedrawn!

Watch the sun set over Ladybower Reservoir

Few views in the UK are more impressive than the outlook from Bamford Edge over Ladybower Reservoir, and nothing says romance like watching the sun set. This relaxing spot feels a world away from the hustle and bustle and is perfect for watching the reflections on the water change colour as the sun goes down, or at dawn as the magnificent countryside is engulfed in the morning light.

Book a luxury log cabin in the woods

Relax and unwind with your partner on a luxury, 5-star lodge break at Landal Darwin Forest near Matlock or Landal Sandybrook near Ashbourne. The award-winning lodge holiday parks each have their own character: Darwin Forest is within a 47-acre woodland paradise, whilst peaceful Sandybrook is just one mile from the historic market town of Ashbourme. Both parks have state-of-the-art lodges offering home from home comforts, with the option to book spa lodges with your very own outdoor hot tub!

Recreate your own Pride and Prejudice moment at Stanage Edge

The rugged, windswept Stanage Edge above Hathersage found fame on the cinema screen as the stunning site where Elizabeth Bennett (played by Keira Knightley) dreamed of Mr Darcy in the 2005 film version of Pride and Prejudice. Recreate your own moment from the movie before enjoying a romantic walk and a picnic whilst soaking up the spectacular views.

Visit Castleton’s caverns - and buy Blue John jewellery

Picturesque Castleton is one of the Peak District’s prettiest villages, but deep in its limestone hills there's a fascinating network of show caverns to explore. Head underground to see some of the most magnificent caves in Europe - and the only place on the planet where you can find Blue John Stone. Above ground, browse Blue John jewellery, ornaments and decorations at quaint shops in the village.