The Peak District is a beautiful place to visit at any time of the year, but it’s during the autumn that it really becomes magical – and one village in particular is a must-visit
The Peak District is undeniably a stunning spot to visit during the autumn months. It’s a joy throughout the year, with its charm equally palpable on a frosty winter’s day as it is in the summer’s peak.
However, it’s in the autumn that it truly comes alive. The trees undergo a transformation, their leaves adopting shades of orange and brown, adding a vibrant splash of colour to the landscape.
Valleys are filled with mists on cool October mornings and village pubs become warm havens as the evenings grow darker. There’s an abundance of locations across the Peak District that look spectacular at this time of year – Padley Gorge and Lud’s Church are just a couple of the highlights.
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Yet, one village consistently pops up in TikTok videos about autumn in the Peak District. Tucked away in Hope Valley, Castleton is a favourite among hikers and a handy pit stop for those trekking Mam Tor and Hollins Cross, reports the Manchester Evening News.
The village is practically perfect in every aspect: quaint cottages, narrow lanes, a stream traversed by bridges, and several snug pubs. But like many spots in the Peak District, Castleton boasts several unique attractions.
At the far end of the village lies Peak Cavern – also known as the Devil’s Arse, a massive cave boasting the largest natural entrance in the British Isles.
You can book guided tours of the cave online, and the Peak Cavern also hosts unique events throughout the year – including Christmas carols.
Just a stone’s throw from the village is Speedwell Cavern, which offers something even more extraordinary: an underground boat ride. This historic lead mine houses a vast subterranean lake ominously dubbed the Bottomless Pit, and visitors can explore the cave via guided boat tours.
As you might expect, Castleton does boast its own castle – although this one perches high above the rest of the village’s buildings. The ancient remains of Peveril Castle, one of England’s earliest Norman fortresses built between 1066 and 1086, loom over the Hope Valley.
Named after William Peveril, the Keeper of the Royal Forest, the castle was mentioned in the Domesday survey. Castleton itself sprang up beneath the castle in the late 12th century, providing a significant income for the castle’s estate.
In the 16th century, the castle fell into disrepair and nearly faced demolition during Queen Elizabeth I’s reign, but the ruins gained popularity in the 19th century, particularly following the publication of Sir Walter Scott’s novel Peveril of the Peak in 1822, despite the story not being set in the castle.
The castle is currently under the stewardship of English Heritage, allowing visitors to wander through the remnants of the keep and discover the foundations of the hall, kitchens and other structures. It’s a bit of a climb to reach the castle, but the breathtaking views are well worth it.
Tickets can be purchased online via the English Heritage website.
