Where to Stay in the Peak District National Park: Six of the Best Hotels for Active Travellers

With its gnarly gritstone edges, gentle rolling hills, and endless epic trails, the Peak District National Park is a dreamy destination for walkers, cyclists, climbers, and general outdoor enthusiasts. 

Whether you’re taking in the views from the iconic Kinder Scout, tackling the infamous Winnats Pass climb by bike, or testing your strength on the world-class boulders of Burbage Valley, Peak local, pro climber, and Olympian Shauna Coxsey guide to the Peak District has heaps of insider tips to help plan your trip. 

Once you've nailed down your adventure plans, the next step will be to establish the right basecamp. With so many hotels in the Peak District to choose from, it can be hard to know where to begin! In this guide, we’ve handpicked six of our faves, each offering that perfect blend of comfort and character, to help you make the most of your trip to the stunning Peak District National Park. 

Whichever option you choose, remember that Peak District weather changes fast—so don’t forget your waterproof jacket!

Best Luxury Stay - Riverside House Hotel, Bakewell

If you’re looking for a luxurious basecamp for adventures in the Peak District, the Riverside House Hotel is arguably the finest boutique hotel in the area. Nestled by the tranquil River Wye, this 5 AA Gold Star former shooting lodge was crowned 'Hotel of the Year' at the 2022 Peak District & Derbyshire Tourism Awards and deservedly so! 

The iconic Sheepwash Bridge is right on the doorstep - perfect for a leisurely evening stroll and a game of pooh sticks while longer adventures are just a short drive away. 5 mins in the car takes you to Monsal Head, one of the most popular spots in the Peak, and the starting point for the stunning 8.5 mile Monsal Trail.

After a full-on day of adventuring, you can return home and indulge in some serious culinary delights at the Rafters at Riverside House - the hotel's 2 AA Rosette restaurant where dishes are crafted using the best local produce. With incredible walking, cycling, and climbing spots all within easy reach, this is the place to stay if you want to combine outdoor adventure with serious comfort - erm, who doesn't?!!

Best Family-Friendly Stay - The Izaak Walton Hotel, Dovedale 

For a family-friendly getaway in the Peak District, The Izaak Walton Hotel is a winner. Perched just above the famous Dovedale Stepping Stones, this family-run 3 Star hotel has one of the Peak District's most iconic landmarks quite literally on the doorstep. Kids will love leaping across the stones, while grown-ups can soak in the stunning River Dove views before tackling the short but rewarding climb up Thorpe Cloud. With spacious family rooms and plenty of gentle walking trails, it’s the perfect base for an outdoor adventure for all ages.

But it’s not just about walking - this hotel is also close to some of the Peak District’s best family-friendly cycle routes, including the Tissington and Manifold Trails, both offering accessible, traffic-free riding through gorgeous countryside. Whether you’re cycling, hiking, or just enjoying a countryside escape with the kids, The Izaak Walton Hotel makes it easy to combine adventure with comfort in one of the most beautiful corners of the Peak.

Best Dog-Friendly Stay - Biggin Hall Hotel, Biggin-by-Hartington

Well-behaved dogs are welcome in rooms at the Biggin Hall Hotel - a 3 Star historic Grade II listed house set within 8 acres of grounds in the heart of the Peak District National Park. With easy-access to uncrowded trails and no additional charge to bring your four-legged friend, it's the ideal base for an outdoor adventure trip to the Peak with your pup.

There's heaps of places to head out and explore together with the stunning White Peak, High Peak, and Manifold Trails all nearby. And with the 13-mile Tissington Trail right on the doorstep, you won't have to travel far for to take your pup for a proper good run out. It's worth mentioning that hairy pals are not allowed in the hotel restaurant though, so if you're looking for dog-friendly dining, you'll need to pop next door to the award-winning Waterloo Inn.

Best Glamping Stay - Hoe Grange Glamping Pods, Brassington

And now for something a little bit different! Hoe Grange’s glamping pods are the perfect choice for folk looking for a mix of adventure and comfort, big Peak District views, and zero need to pitch a tent! Tucked away in the hills near Brassington, these eco-pods put you right in the heart of nature yet come with all the features you need to keep you cosy, warm and comfortable. Think fully equipped kitchenettes, en-suite showers, double glazing and infra-red heating - fancy!

From your doorstep, you can hit the High Peak Trail, a fantastic traffic-free route for hiking, cycling, or even horse riding through the stunning White Peak countryside. Fancy something more adventurous? Carsington Water is just down the road, offering kayaking, paddleboarding, and beautiful lakeside strolls. Hoe Grange combines the freedom of camping with just the right amount of luxury - an epic adventure without sacrificing comfort!

Best Boutique Stay - The Maynard, Grindleford

This boutique 3 Star country retreat is perfect for folks looking for a contemporary historic hotel with epic access to the Peak District. There's so much to explore right from the doorstep of The Maynard, including Padley Gorge - a magical woodland packed with gentle flowing streams, waterfalls and ancient oak trees - Stanage Edge, Longshaw Estate and Higger Tor.

Back at The Maynard, you can swap your boots for something a little smarter and unwind in style. With modern rooms, top-notch dining, and a buzzing bar, it’s got all the cozy feels of a countryside inn with a trendy, up-market vibe. Whether you’ve been hauling on gritstone edges, exploring woodland trails, or just taking in the views, the Maynard is the perfect spot to rest and refuel, so you can do it all again tomorrow!

Best Traditional Pub Campsite Stay - The Royal Oak, Hurdlow

Ideal for folks who appreciate a perfectly poured post-hike pint and a proper back-to-nature adventure, The Royal Oak in Hurdlow is a traditional Peak District pub with family-friendly campsite on-site so you can properly rehydrate and refuel after a long day of adventuring - no designated drivers required!

Positioned directly on the High Peak and Tissington trails, it's an ideal base for hikers, cyclists and trail runners looking for proper food, generous portions and sensible prices. There's literally dozens of walks to do from the doorstep but our pick of the bunch is the 11 mile Parkhouse Hiill/Chrome Hill loop that takes in two of the most famous limestone hills in the Peak District. Also known as the Dragon's Back Ridge due to their distinctive shape, these hills offer incredible views of the surrounding countryside and a proper day out!