Bottom of the Peaks

I've always heard people talk about the hidden gem of the Peak District. Even though there are no monumental mountains to climb; it’s always portrayed as a beautiful place to visit and there is lots to do; alongside great countryside pubs as well. A friend and I decided to pop up the road for a snifter and it didn’t disappoint. Although it was much further up the road than we anticipated; as once as crossed the border into the National Park; we were surrounded by mountains, hills and fields. We started our adventure at Ilam Park, a National Trust site in the South Peaks. This Victorian manor was once a hotel but is now a visitor centre to explore the area. The village of Ilam is small and picturesque, with a large river running alongside the village. From here you can do many walks such as exploring the Doverdale stepping stones or climb up Thorpe hill. We relaxed by the river for a while and mingled with the local wildlife before pushing onto Buxton, a small town with a cavern of caves to visit. It’s well worth a look just to learn the difference between stalagmite and stalactites  (stalagmite has an M in it!).