Autumn’s Best OFF PEAK: A two-day Peak District adventure

After your walk, head to The Maynard, a stylish country inn in the heart of Grindleford. With its welcoming atmosphere and beautiful setting on the edge of the Peak District, it’s an ideal place to recharge after a morning outdoors.

Whether you fancy a leisurely meal, a refreshing drink or something sweet, The Maynard makes a lovely stop for walkers looking to combine the outdoors with a little indulgence.

Swap walking boots for two wheels and head to The Bike & Boot in Hope, where your afternoon cycling adventure begins. With bike hire from Hope Valley Cycle Hire, you can explore at a gentler pace.

Head to the Thornhill Trail and continue to Ladybower Reservoir, where the waterside paths offer beautiful views. The changing autumn colours, open skies and peaceful reservoir scenery make this a great way to spend an afternoon outdoors.

The Thornhill Trail provides a starting point for exploring this spectacular part of the Hope Valley. Check the route and trail conditions before setting off, and allow time to stop for photographs along the way.

After a day of exploring, return to Bike & Boot to put your feet up and enjoy a relaxed evening. Dog-friendly and designed with outdoor adventures in mind, it’s the perfect base for walkers and cyclists looking to make the most of the Peak District. Guests can enjoy complimentary afternoon cake and coffee, the ideal treat after a day on the trails, while a cosy small cinema room offers the perfect spot to settle down and watch a film.

Round off your day with dinner at the hotel before retiring for a comfortable overnight stay, ready to discover more of the Peak District the following morning..

The Bike & Boot is a 25 min walk from Hope Railway Station or a short bus ride away. 

Wake up to another day of adventure with breakfast at Bike & Boot. Enjoy a relaxed start before heading out to explore some of the Peak District’s most iconic landscapes, from the dramatic gritstone cliffs of Stanage Edge to the historic village of Castleton.

Head to Hathersage, a picturesque village surrounded by spectacular countryside and steeped in local legend. From here, set off on a walk towards Stanage Edge, one of the Peak District’s best-known gritstone edges, with far-reaching views across the Dark Peak and the surrounding moorland.

On the way, look out for Little John's Grave in Hathersage churchyard. According to local legend, Little John was the loyal companion of Robin Hood, and his supposed resting place adds a touch of folklore to your morning adventure.

Continue up towards Stanage Edge, where dramatic rock formations, open moorland and panoramic views create a spectacular setting for an autumn walk. The edge is internationally renowned for its climbing, it has also featured in film and television productions, most notably Kiera’s Knightley’s 2005 production of Pride & Prejudice.

After your walk, return to Hathersage for lunch at The Scotsman Pack, a traditional cosy village pub. It's a great place to refuel and enjoy a relaxed pub lunch before continuing your journey to Castleton, where another side of the Peak District awaits.

Hathersage has a railway station along the Hope Valley Line from Hope. 

Make your way to Castleton, one of the Peak District’s most picturesque villages. Set beneath the dramatic ruins of Peveril Castle, Castleton is known for its traditional stone cottages, independent shops and spectacular surrounding scenery.

Take time to explore the village before heading towards Cave Dale, a striking limestone valley that offers a memorable short walk through steep-sided rocky cliffs. The path winds through the dale beneath the imposing remains of Peveril Castle, creating a dramatic backdrop for photographs.

Finish your two-day adventure with a guided tour of Peak Cavern, one of the Peak District’s most remarkable natural attractions. Known locally as the Devil’s Arse, this impressive cave system sits at the foot of the cliffs beneath Peveril Castle and has a fascinating history.

Join the 4pm tour to venture underground and discover spectacular cavern spaces, dramatic rock formations and stories connected to the area’s past. The entrance itself is particularly striking, opening into a huge natural cavern beneath the limestone cliffs.

Peak Cavern offers a memorable contrast to the open landscapes explored over the past two days, making it a fitting finale to an autumn break filled with fresh air, adventure and discovery.

To reach Castleton you can hop onboard the 272 High Peak bus service from Hathersage to Castleton