PEAK DISTRICT GLAMPING: THE COMPLETE GUIDE

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Glamping in the Peak District is becoming extremely popular, and it’s easy to see why. The area is abundant in picturesque landscapes and dotted with pretty towns and villages.
This guide to Peak District glamping details the highlights of this beautiful area, including all the best glamping options in the Peak District National Park.

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INTRODUCTION 

The Peak District covers a sizable swathe of land in the centre of England, and became the UK’s first designated National Park in the early 1950s. This mountainous region is mostly located within Derbyshire, although some parts of Yorkshire, Cheshire and Staffordshire are also found inside its boundaries.

Find a Peak District glamping hideaway and you have easy access to all the natural wonders of the area, including open moorland, gorges, rocky peaks, caves and grazing pastures. Visitors can also sample life in the vibrant cities of Manchester, Derby, Sheffield and Stoke-on-Trent. The attractive spa town of Buxton also lies at the heart of the park.

Dotted with appealing towns with great amenities and pretty little villages, this part of England offers visitors access to plenty of attractions as well as a variety of open, rocky or hilly countryside. 

A feeling of space characterises any holiday spent in the Peak District National Park. Apart from the other guests at the glamping pods near yours, it’s still perfectly possible to wander for days in this area without seeing anyone else. 

The Peak District’s glamping accommodation options are varied. Due in part to building restrictions, there is a noticeable trend in the area for temporary structures such as yurts, shepherd’s huts, bell tents and glamping pods. From secret wood glamping in the Peak District to glamping in the peak District with a hot tub, the area offers lots of choice. 

Bell tents and yurts offer an experience more akin to traditional camping – albeit a lot more glamorous. Pods and shepherd’s huts have a more permanent feel, and inside are like self-contained tiny homes, offering a cosy, romantic ambience for your stay.

So does glamping in the Peak District make for a great holiday? Oh yes indeed. This guide will walk you through all the best places to see and stay in the area. Read on and you can start planning your perfect break!

QUICK GUIDE TO PEAK DISTRICT GLAMPING OPTIONS

NAME	LOCATION	TYPE	SLEEPS (NUMBER)	CHECK PRICES
NANCY’S SHEPHERD’S HUT	Cheshire	Shepherd’s Hut	2	Latest Prices
WELLTROUGH HALL FARM	Cheshire	Pod	2	Latest Prices
PEAK YURTS	Derbyshire	Yurt	4	Latest Prices
GAIA’S HIDEAWAY	Derbyshire	Tent	2	Latest Prices
STANAGE LODGE LUXURY TIPI	Derbyshire	Tipi	2	Latest Prices
SHEPHERD’S HUT	Derbyshire	Shepherd’s Hut	2	Latest Prices
MILNES CORNER LUXURY YURT	Derbyshire	Yurt	6	Latest Prices
THE OWL HOOT	Staffordshire	Cabin	2	Latest Prices
SERENDIPITY SHEPHERD’S HUT	Staffordshire	Shepherd’s Hut	2	Latest Prices
BACK O’ BEYOND	Yorkshire	Pod	4	Latest Prices

GLAMPING IN THE CHESHIRE PEAK DISTRICT

On the western side of the Peak District National Park there are several small Cheshire towns and villages – as well as mile after mile of scenic open countryside. In the Cheshire Plains area in particular, there are panoramic views over the surrounding landscape. When the skies are clear, it’s possible to see as far as Snowdon – aka Yr Wyddfa – the highest mountain in Wales.

The Cheshire Peak District’s clutch of pretty towns and villages include Macclesfield, Bollington, Wincle, Allgreave and Rainow. With sweeping views, plus independent eateries and shops, any of these are worth a visit. The area also makes a great base for exploring the entire Peak District National Park. 

NANCY’S SHEPHERD’S HUT

Location: Wincle

Sleeps: 2

Nancy’s Shepherd Hut isn’t just any old shepherd’s hut. Oh no. You’ll find this exquisite glamping hut in the Cheshire Peak District, situated in a heightened position with views over the countryside and a private garden with a fire pit. Inside, the hut welcomes you with its well-equipped kitchen, double bed, and drop-leaf table and chairs. 24/7 heating and electricity will also amp up your glamping trip.

With a nearby pub serving delicious local grub and easy access to many public paths running through the countryside, it’s a perfect choice for a peaceful escape from the distractions of day to day life. However, if you do fancy a shot of adrenaline during your stay, Nancy’s Shepherd’s Hut is only 15 miles from Alton Towers!

What guests say: “We had such a lovely time staying at the shepherd’s hut. The hosts were so attentive and every little detail had been thought of. The shepherd’s hut is really cosy and peaceful. We can’t wait to go back!” (Sarah)

Click here to check the latest prices for Nancy’s Shepherd’s Hut in Wincle.

WELLTROUGH HALL FARM

Location: Macclesfield
Sleeps: 3 glamping accommodation options, each sleeping 2 guests
Best for: Couples

Located in Macclesfield, these 3 luxury glamping pods are a short drive away from local attractions such Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre (home of the Bluedot festival) and Capesthorne Hall.

Choose from the rather fancy Shepherd’s Hut, the Foxhole Pod or the Badger Pod. They’re all pet friendly, so are ideal for those seeking dog friendly glamping in the Peak District. Each unit includes a flat screen TV, fridge, kettle and microwave. Not only that, but there’s free wifi in the public areas  – and a restaurant on site for when you don’t feel like cooking!

What guests say: “Love this place. Excellent views, great for the dogs.” (Keith)

Click here to check the latest prices for Welltrough Hall Farm glamping pods

GLAMPING IN THE DERBYSHIRE PEAK DISTRICT

The majority of the Peak District National Park is found within Derbyshire. Within the county, the park is largely formed of two main areas – Dark Peak and White Peak.

To the north, Dark Peak has a brooding landscape packed with open, sprawling moorland and jagged crags formed from gritstone – a grey, coarse-grained type of sandstone that characterises the area. 

In the south, White Peak features rolling pastures dotted with sheep and intersected by traditional dry-stone walls. Over the centuries, the local limestone has also created natural gorges and caves. 

Derbyshire’s attractive collection of towns and villages are abundant in charm and character. Some of the highlights include Buxton, a spa town and Bakewell, home of the famous Bakewell tart (known locally as Bakewell pudding). 

The Hope Valley region is home to delightful villages like Bamford, Castleton and Grindleford, while Chapel en le Frith was the original “Capital of the Peak”, occupying an ancient site and a lofty position at the heart of the Peak District National Park.

PEAK YURTS

Location: Chapel en le Frith

Sleeps: 4

Peak Yurts are sited on the Chapel en le Frith area, an elevated settlement that dates back to 1225 and that once sat between Viking and Saxon lands. The yurts offer bohemian style accommodation, and each is equipped with a kitchenette. 

Around 20 miles from Manchester and 25 from Sheffield, the site has a garden with a barbecue and offers easy access to hiking trails and water sports facilities, including windsurfing. Helpful staff will happily give guidance on what to do and see in the local area. 

What guests say: “Absolutely love staying here, the yurt and site is fantastic, the views are beautiful, really nice pub just a few minutes walk, we had the best time and will definitely be back soon, highly recommended.” (Cheryl)

Click here to check prices for Peak Yurts in Chapel en le Frith

GAIA’S HIDEAWAY

Location: Buxton

Sleeps: 2

Around 12 miles from Buxton, on Upper Hurst Farm, is Gaia’s Hideaway. This very private tented camp offers accommodation for glamping in the Peak District with a hot tub. The site also has other great outdoor spaces, including a sun terrace with barbecue, kids’ playground and plenty of parking.

Each tent features a kitchen with fridge, oven and microwave for self-catering. There are also dining and lounging areas. The Derbyshire Dales are within walking distance of the site, and also close to Staffordshire’s Manifold Valley. Pretty villages, hiking and walking trails, stately homes and the spa town of Buxton are also within easy reach.

What guests say: “Wow! 10 out of 10 in all areas. Clean, tidy, warm, quiet, private. Amazing easy welcome by the host. A beautiful welcome essentials breakfast hamper! Very comfy bed. Easy to use wood burner. It was the perfect Peak District escape. Thank you very much, we will be back!” (Christopher)

Click here to check prices for Gaia’s Hideaway near Buxton

STANAGE LODGE LUXURY TIPI

Location: Hope Valley
Sleeps: 2

Situated in Grindleford Bridge, Stanage Lodge Luxury Tipi is a great holiday spot for Peak District glamping. It offers breathtaking views, comfortable beds, cosy lighting and has a garden and terrace with barbeque area. Oh, and how could I almost forget to mention… that guests also have access to a shared hot tub!

With Sheffield only around 9 miles away, guests have the perfect mixture of city life versus countryside tranquility. A very rare and perfect combination. 

Click here to check prices for Stanage Lodge Luxury Tipi

SHEPHERD’S HUT

Location: Hope Valley

Sleeps: 2

If you’ve always fancied sampling life inside a tiny house, here’s your chance! This shepherd’s hut in picturesque Hope Valley is within 5 minutes’ drive of several pubs and Peveril castle. There are stunning views over the Castleton area from the site.

The hut is equipped with every modern luxury you could ask for, including motion sensor outside lighting, underfloor heating, double glazed windows and patio doors plus insulation and oak flooring. In the kitchen there is a Belfast sink with copper tap and an induction hob, while the seating area features a smart TV and soundbar. The bathroom, meanwhile, boasts a double walk-in shower. 

What guests say: No reviews yet. Why not be the first?!

Click here to check prices for the Shepherd’s Hut in Hope Valley

MILNES CORNER LUXURY YURT

Location: Burton on Trent

Sleeps: 6

The Peakes Retreats glampsite is where the Milnes Corner luxury yurt can be found, close to central Burton on Trent. Local attractions and landmarks include Sudbury Hall, Claymills Victorian Pumping Station, Tutbury Castle and the National Trust Museum of Childhood. A good local pub serving homemade hot meals is only a mile away.

The yurt can accommodate up to 6 guests and features a wood burning stove and large four poster bed. A Finnish barbecue hut seating 24 means you can cook outdoors in any weather, and there is also an 8 seater hot tub at the site. Other great amenities include a children’s play area and deluxe bathroom blocks complete with Neal’s Yard toiletries.

What guests say: No reviews yet. Book a stay and be the first!

Click here to check prices for Milnes Corner Luxury Yurt near Burton on Trent

GLAMPING IN THE STAFFORDSHIRE PEAK DISTRICT

Parts of Staffordshire occupy the south-western corner of the Peak District National Park. Here the landscape is characterised by rocky gritstone outcrops – referred to as The Roaches – and acres of rolling green hills. The popular theme park Alton Towers is also in Staffordshire, and the county is famous for its pottery.

The villages and towns of the Staffordshire Peak District include the market town of Leek, which is packed with history, a range of great cafes, pubs, bars and restaurants and interesting, independent shops. In the Moorlands district, Ipstones is a typical farming village featuring local sandstone structures.

THE OWL HOOT

Location: Ipstones

Sleeps: 2

The Owl Hoot is located in a peaceful position on Coltstone Heath Farm in Ipstones. This compact, rustic accommodation includes a pretty garden, and farm animals are often found wandering nearby. There are soothing views from the property and it has a secluded feel. Several good local pubs can be found in the village. 

As well as the Peak District, Alton Towers is also within easy reach. The Staffordshire Moorlands can be explored on foot, directly from the property’s front door. Inside, this shepherd’s hut has a king size bed, plus a private bathroom and kitchen. 

What guests say: “I really enjoyed staying at the Owl Hoot, it was a lovely, isolated place with a beautiful view. There are some lovely pubs around the area. The staff were really friendly and made us feel welcome.” (Charlotte)

Click here to check prices for The Owl Hoot in Ipstones

SERENDIPITY SHEPHERD’S HUT

Location: Leek

Sleeps: 2

Serendipity shepherd’s hut also enjoys a farm location near the attractive Staffordshire town of Leek, with Buxton around 20 minutes away by car. The hut is clean and well-equipped, with a very welcoming and helpful host. It has a kitchen and private bathroom with compost toilet and also a pleasant outdoor terrace.

Cosying up in front of the fire on cold nights is a highlight, and the firewood is replenished daily. The views, cleanliness and convenient location are praised by past guests, and thoughtful touches include the provision of wine glasses and solar charging points. 

What guests say: “Gorgeous Shepherds Hut and beautiful surroundings. Alison was a fabulous host and we had everything we needed.” (Claire)

Click here to check prices for Serendipity Shepherd’s Hut near Leek

GLAMPING IN THE YORKSHIRE PEAK DISTRICT

Among the wild and spectacular landscapes of Yorkshire are the eastern and northern edges of the Peak District National Park. The scenery in this region features broad stretches of heather-clad moorland, as well as deep valleys lined with trees and the gritstone crags typical of the area.

The villages, towns and cities of the Yorkshire Peak District are also very appealing. Sheffield is a very green city built on seven hills, and offers visitors sweeping views over the landscape from its higher ground. There are several charming villages too, including Tintwhistle and Bradfield.

BACK O’ BEYOND

Location: Sheffield (overlooking the Peak District)

Sleeps: 3-4 (double bed + sofa bed)

Book into the Back O’ Beyond and you’ll have the city of Sheffield on your doorstep – as well as panoramic views over the Peak District. This gorgeous little holiday pod stands within its own private area, and the hilltop position ensures guests can enjoy the fabulous scenery over the moors of Langsett and Woodhead.

The towns of Holmfirth and Penistone are close by, and both offer plenty in the way of shops and eateries as well as local attractions. Inside, the pod has a double bed plus sofa bed, and all linen, towels and even bathrobes are provided. Outside, there is a hot tub, furnished terrace and barbecue. Free wifi is available and there is a wet room and kitchen with a fridge and small cooker.

What guests say: No reviews yet. Book a stay and be the first!

Click here to check prices for the Back O’ Beyond near Sheffield

GLAMPING IN THE PEAK DISTRICT WITH A HOT TUB

For some, no Peak District glamping experience would be complete without a hot tub! If that describes you, then you may already have noticed that a number of the accommodation options featured above include a private or shared hot tub. These are as follows:

Gaia’s Hideaway

Gaia’s Hideaway has a large and very private wood-fired hot tub. With a 1700 litre capacity, a soak on this hot tub is a highlight of any stay.

Stanage Lodge Luxury Tipi 

Guests staying at the Stanage Lodge Luxury Tipi enjoy access to a shared hot tub located within the grounds of this tented camp.

Milnes Corner Luxury Yurt

Milnes Corner Luxury Yurt features an 8 seater hot tub, as well as a Finnish barbecue hut for guest use.

Back O’ Beyond

This holiday pod has a hot tub within the private, furnished outdoor area, exclusively for the use of guests.

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO DURING YOUR PEAK DISTRICT GLAMPING STAY

If you’re wondering what to do when you get there, here are some suggestions regarding what to do in the Peak District area.

Take a walk

There is no better place on earth to grab a breath of fresh air than in the Peak District. Spanning an area comparable in size to Greater London, the rolling hills, vast moorland, rugged crags, green pastures and lofty peaks offer incredible opportunities to soak up the stunning scenery. You could even stroll for days without bumping into another living soul – and many walking paths and hiking trails can be accessed close to the glamping accommodation options detailed in this guide.

Adrenaline-filled fun at Alton Towers

Many visitors cannot resist spending a day at Alton Towers during their Peak District glamping holiday. And who can blame them? With fun-filled experiences and thrilling rides galore, the UK’s leading theme part is perennially popular for a reason.

Explore Bronte country

The Bronte sisters – Charlotte, Emily and Anne – were hugely inspired by the area in which they lived. Known at the time under their male pseudonyms, Currer, Ellis and Acton Bell (as ladies were not permitted to become authors), you can see various sights that influenced the works of the literary siblings – including the Bronte Way and Haddon Hall as well as the wild Yorkshire moors.

Act like a Duke or Duchess at Chatsworth House

Don’t miss the chance to see Chatsworth House at close quarters – it’s one of the UK’s premier stately homes and the seat of the current Duke and Duchess of Devonshire. With an estate totalling 1,000 aces, there is always fine art, the latest exhibitions and the manicured, landscaped grounds to discover. Tickets can also be purchased for the gardens, house or farmyard. A number of eateries are also offered at Chatsworth, including The Flying Childers that serves a superb afternoon tea. 

Take to the trails by bike

The Peak District isn’t only a walker’s paradise – it’s also ideal for cyclists. A large network of cycle paths criss-crosses the national park. Whether you’d prefer a thrilling mountain bike ride or a leisurely pedal through town, this is a great place to take to two wheels. 

Go underground at Castleton Caves

With intriguing rock formations and the rare Blue John stone, the caves at Castleton in the Peak District include the Speedwell, Peak, Blue John and Treak Cliff caverns. The latter is also home to the local Blue John stone – and is packed with fascinating stalactites and stalagmites. 

Discover the spa town of Buxton

Buxton lies at the heart of the Peak District National Park and this elegant town offers all sorts of attractions to tempt the visitor. Including arts, outdoor pursuits and sports as well as shopping, nightlife and restaurants. As you might expect, Buxton is also home to several world-class spas, including one on Buxton Crescent on the site of the town’s natural mineral baths. The grade I listed Georgian building is one of the country’s most significant sites, and of great architectural and historical importance.

Experience English heritage at Cromford Mills

The industrial site of Cromford Mills offers visitors to Matlock a unique opportunity to explore the past. There are trails to follow and galleries to enjoy, or you can take a guided tour or watch an interactive presentation. Visitors can also take a canal boat ride. 

Reach the giddy Heights of Abraham

Close to Matlock Bath is the 60 acre Heights of Abraham, a woodland estate offering cable car rides and cavern tours. Guests can also explore the area’s mining history here, and even find out about a typical day in a 17th century miner’s life.

Seek out the real Bakewell Pudding

The Derbyshire town of Bakewell is home to the famous pudding – known as Bakewell tart to the rest of the world. In the town, several cafes claim to have been the source of the original Bakewell pudding recipe, so what better excuse to sample them all while trying to find a favourite?

And if you fancy something a little different…

The Hunt: Team Adventure in the Peak District

Try your hand at being a Secret Agent and explore the Peaks whilst taking part in a fun outdoor scavenger hunt. Located just 10 minutes outside Bakewell, the game can be adapted to suit different ages, abilities and fitness levels.

For groups of between 4 – 24 people, the experience includes all equipment and in person hosts who will meet and brief you on the day! Intrigued? Click here to find out more!

WHAT DO I NEED TO PACK FOR GLAMPING?

If you’ve never been glamping before – just you wait. Like me, I’m sure you’ll soon be addicted to this kind of break – it’s a way of life that combines the best of the great outdoors with the creature comforts of home. But if you are new to glamping, how do you know what to pack? By checking out my complete guide to what to pack when you go glamping, of course! Click here for the full lowdown. 

OTHER PLACES TO GO GLAMPING IN THE NORTH WEST

Glamping in the Peak District is not your only option – there are plenty of highly recommended places in the North West to enjoy the glamping lifestyle too. To find out more about where to stay in a yurt, shepherd’s hut, bell tent or pod in North West England, you can read my article here.

PEAK DISTRICT GLAMPING: WHERE WILL YOU CHOOSE TO STAY?

I hope this guide to Peak District glamping has encouraged you to visit this beautiful part of the world – and helped you to get started with planning your trip. Whether you choose a Cheshire, Leek or Hope Valley shepherd’s hut, a glamping pod farm stay, a holiday pod in Yorkshire, a glampsite near Burton on Trent or a yurt in the ancient “Capital of the Peak”,  there are plenty of appealing accommodation options in the Peak District. The hardest part is deciding which one to to go for!

Have you been glamping in the Peak District? We’d love to hear about it. Leave us a message in the comments!