Top picks within an hour of home – The Peak District

Last weekend we decided to test out both of our new motorhomes so we invited our friends Julie and Paul to borrow Finney and we went along in Beni. 

After spending many hours deliberating over where to go we decided on the Peak District, mainly because we could get there within an hour or so on a busy Friday evening.

We booked a campsite at the Knockerdown Inn because we had been recommended to go there by friends. On arrival we checked in quickly and had our pitches completely set up within minutes (this is the advantage of a motorhome rather than a caravan!) There are gorgeous views over Carsington Reservoir and a choice of walks directly from the camp site. They are also really dog friendly so a good choice if you are taking your dogs along.

Thursday evening and Paul cooked up a chilli with rice and garlic bread on the outside stove which was delicious! We then played dominoes which I must admit I thought would be a bit boring, but it was so much fun  – at least everyone seemed to enjoy it except Paul who couldn’t seem to win even when we all cheated to help him!

Friday morning we were up early as we were booked on the tour around Chatsworth House. This was amazing and I would highly recommend if you are (even slightly) into old houses and history. Even Adam and Paul seemed to enjoy it which was a surprise. Afterwards we walked around the gardens and you really have to be there to experience the huge space   – you could literally walk around these gardens every day and see something different, from sculptures to waterfalls and lakes, even a grotto set into the hills and a large maze (closed unfortunately due to Covid) – they are incredible . Following that we went to the Chatsworth farm shop and bought fresh bread, meats and cheeses for lunch back at the motorhome.  Later that evening we ate in the Knockerdown pub (http://www.knockerdown-inn.co.uk/). This is a real find with a large outside garden and lovely food. They are very Covid aware and the landlady even mentioned that I was standing too close to my friend so we had to step away from each other.

Saturday, we decided to head to Matlock bath, the Denby factory village and then Cromford for fish and chips.  Then, the real highlight of the weekend for me.  A trip to the Barley Mow in Kirk Ireton. This pub dates back to the 17^th Century and famously still has no draft beer – they literally pour the beer directly from the barrel into jugs and then straight into your pint jug.  I’m not sure they would have a wine list but then I think it would be a shame to visit here and not try the local beers. There are no luxuries here, all wooden floors and tables but there are lovely coal fires burning in every room and a real friendly welcome, even from the locals.  After this it was back to the motorhome and Adam’s turn to cook, a lovely chicken curry and rice.

Sunday – we headed back early so that we could clean and sanitise the motorhomes (see separate blog about our covid cleaning procedures) and get them ready to hire out.