Free Things to Do in the Peak District

Discover Derbyshire's Treasures on a stay at Longnor Wood with our choice of the best free places to visit in Derbyshire come rain or shine.

Charming Buxton

Unearth the huge array of things to do in Buxton for free.

• Buxton Pavilion Gardens - Saunter through 23 acres of landscaped, picturesque gardens with tranquil ponds and a mini railway. Keep your eye out for the many free festivals that take place in the Buxton Pavilion Gardens throughout the year.
• Poole's Cavern - while tours carry a fee, the nearby Buxton Country Park offers free woodland trails and viewpoints, including Solomon’s Temple and Grin Low.
  
• Buxton Crescent - Admire this iconic Georgian masterpiece, pivotal in Buxton's architectural legacy. Paid guided tours are also available but all guests can visit the Visitor Centre in the Grade II listed Pump Room.
  

Other things to do in Buxton for free include the Buxton Museum and Art Gallery and St Ann’s Well.

Picturesque Walks

For free days out Derbyshire that are good for physical and mental well-being, nothing beats a good walk. The Peak District boasts trails that offer both tranquillity and unmatched views.

• Monsal Weir - Experience the beauty of this historical weir and its surroundings underneath the magnificent Monsal Head Viaduct. Short circular walks are available.
  
• Lady Bower Reservoir - A scenic reservoir walk, perfect for relaxation and birdwatching. Free car parking available on the road.
• Great Ridge - Traverse this ridge for sweeping views of the Hope Valley and Edale. A 6.5 mile exhilarating walk takes in Castleton and Mam Tor. 
  

Perfect Picnic Spots in the Peak District

Pack your basket and head to these idyllic locations for memorable free days out in Derbyshire:

• Sheepwash Bridge: A peaceful riverside spot in Ashford-in-the-Water with a charming stone bridge backdrop. It is a haven for birdlife.
  
• Ilam Park: Expansive green lawns and a tranquil River Manifold setting. Parking charges may apply in the National Trust car parks.
  
• Chatsworth Estate: While the house itself has an entry fee, the estate grounds are a haven for picnickers and there are plenty of lovely walks to enjoy too. Stand Wood is a medieval woodland in the estate.

Enchanting Woodlands

Discover the magical woodlands of Derbyshire, teeming with flora, fauna, and enchanted tales:

• Padley Gorge: A fairy-tale woodland gorge with burbling streams and ancient trees. Easy 2.3km trail.
• Longnor Wood: Our very own woodland, located next to the campsite entrance, perfect for early morning dog walking.

Wild Swimming Adventures Derbyshire

Dive into some of the Peak District’s best wild swimming spots for a refreshing experience:

• Three Shires Head: Where three counties (Derbyshire, Cheshire and Staffordshire) meet, offering pools and waterfalls. Pretty 6km trail.
  
• Youlgreave: Named after the colour of the ore mined in the area (yellow), this pretty Peak District village has gentle rivers (Bradford and Lathkill) perfect for a summertime splash. The main swimming area has been carved out between rocks along the river. Park considerately in the village where spaces are limited.
• Black Mere Pool: Dive into myths at this mysterious, deep pool, also known as Mermaid’s Pond after the creature who allegedly haunts it. Roadside parking available.
  

Step into History

Other free places to visit in Derbyshire also include captivating historic sites:

• Lud’s Church: A deep, moss-covered chasm steeped in myth and legend.
• Magpie Mine: Remnants of Derbyshire's lead mining history at the 19th century lead mine, one of the oldest surviving lead mines in the UK.
  
• Arbor Low Stone Circle: Discover this Neolithic henge monument and feel the weight of centuries past. Stone circle of around 50 limestone slabs.
  

Your free adventure in Derbyshire awaits whilst staying with us at Longnor Wood. From serene walks to rich history, Derbyshire offers unforgettable moments at no cost.