2013 marks the 200th anniversary of Jane Austen’s masterpiece Pride and Prejudice, a novel of manners where heroine Elizabeth Bennet famously falls in love with the brooding Mr Darcy.
The Peak District and Pemberley house (based on the stunning Chatsworth Hall in Derbyshire), are the most famous locations to feature in the novel, so we at CaravanTimes thought that now is a better time than ever to take a look at the charms of this scenic region.
We have picked out some of the most beautiful and interesting highlights of the area, with a bit of help from Jane Austen herself.
Peak District Walking Festival 2013
“They walked on, without knowing in what direction. There was too much to be thought, and felt, and said, for attention to any other objects.”
Taking place from 26 April to 12 May, the Peak District Walking Festival features a wide range of activities, including nature exploration, rock climbing and castle day walks, so you can enjoy Lizzie Bennet’s favourite pastime (as the clip below shows)
Farmers’ Markets
“It’s been many years since I had such an exemplary vegetable.”
There is nothing quite like taking a trip to the countryside and visiting a farmers’ market for a real sense of community and a wide range of produce all in the same place.
The Peak District is rife with farmers’ markets which are laden with fruit, vegetables, homemade jams, and arts and crafts. Our particular favourite is the Buxton Farmers’ Market
As the second largest in the UK, it regularly attracts over 5,000 visitors every month to see over 70 stallholders. Many of these sell out before closing time, so be sure to arrive nice and early.
Evening activities
“To be fond of dancing was a certain step towards falling in love”
Be excessively diverted in the Peak District by having a gorgeous cosy night in one of the many quaint pubs in the area, heading to the top of Eccles Pike to do some stargazing, dancing the night away in Chesterfield or even catching a show at the gorgeous Buxton Theatre.
Where to stay?
The Peak District is such a hotspot for caravanners that this list could go on forever, but we have shortlisted our top five for inspiration on where to pitch during your stay:
Rivendale is the ideal place for the adventurous: mountain biking, rambling and a variety of walking trails and cycle ways lead directly from the site, including a path that will take you to the limestone upper reaches of Dove Dale, one of the most beautiful and popular locations in the Peak District.
Located in the quaint hamlet of Golden Valley, the park is set within 26 acres of historic woodland, full of history. Golden Valley is in Amber Valley, known for its villages and exciting historic houses and heritage sites. The caravan park is situated in a secluded woodland hideaway, all set with a Jacuzzi, gym and bar.
With an array of outdoor activities, natural and historical features, Castleton Caravan Club site is a popular choice. Only half a mile from the beautiful village of Castleton, which is full of pubs and shops, this would be an ideal location.
Carsington Waters Caravan Club Site
The Carsington Water Caravan Club site in Ashbourne boasts pitches separated by trees, giving residents peace and quiet in the busy summer months.
Carsington Reservoir is also a major attraction of the Peak District, including such facilities as fishing, sailing and windsurfing, or you can simply take in the spectacular views on a cable car ride.
Situated a short walk from the lovely town of Bakewell, this park is in an excellent location surrounded by many areas of interest. The views are spectacular, and with the park open from February to November, it is almost always available. There is also 10% off your holiday price if booked online.
Some of these parks are not available all year round, so make sure to check before loading up the caravan and hitting the road.
