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

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 traditional afternoon tea in the charming atmosphere of the magnificent Buxton Cresent Hotel
The 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 Darwin Forest near Matlock. The award-winning lodge holiday parks each have their own character: Darwin Forest is within a 47-acre woodland paradise, 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.