Sunshine and Sparkling Wine!

So we love the Peak District... Our wonderful hotel is even named after it.

In light of the predicted heat wave we're going to be experiencing over the next few weeks, we have compiled a list of our top five walks and picnic spots. We of course recommend a "Posh Picnic"... petit sandwiches, sparkling wine, elderflower cordial, and a naughty dessert! Whether you're going with our loved one or a group of girls, take a look at our suggestions to make the most of the glorious British summer.

5. High Tor at Matlock
A stunning climb through some shaded woods brings you to the lofty ledge of High Tor... views for miles and even a picnic bench to boot. You can take a ride on the cable cars at the Heights Of Abraham and add a bit of excitement to your day. We recommend a walk down the river and a visit to the Masson Mills Shopping Village to round your day off.
http://www.peakdistrictinformation.com/visits/hightor.php
http://www.massonmills.co.uk/Shopping-Village/
http://www.heightsofabraham.com/

4. Curbar Edge
Curbar Edge has a convenient car park, and a short and beautiful walk to the ridge that follows for miles with views of Chatsworth and Bakewell. There is a particular part of the ridge that juts out, lovely and level we can even recommend it for a BBQ... the stone surface means the grassland won't be damaged! We recommend an evening picnic here, you won't find many more beautiful places to enjoy a Peak District sunset. Just lovely!
http://www.snapthepeaks.co.uk/Walks/Curbar/curbar.htm

3. Padley Gorge
Enjoy a scenic descent into the gorge followed by a leisurely stroll along the river, if you're feeling brave, you can hop across to the other side on some stepping stones. We recommend taking a picnic blanket and pitching up in the sunshine anywhere. To finish, we would always say pop to the ice-cream van and enjoy a 99 whilst walking back to the car.
http://www.near-chesterfield-derbyshire.com/padley-gorge-walk.html

2. Chatsworth Park
With over 1000 acres to choose from, you're guaranteed to find a quiet spot to relax and enjoy a picnic. Our favourite idea is to park in the Calton Lees car park, you can have a look round the lovely garden centre before wandering into the park to find your spot. Go across the road to a tumble-down building with a bit of history to it (no spoilers here!), and wander along the rivers edge towards the world famous Chatsworth House. The river is deep in places with a slow flowing current and fantastic for a refreshing swim, or a paddle across the river steps a little further downstream.You can grab ice-cream afterwards either at the house, or back at the car park, and if you're in the right season, look out for Chatsworth's resident herd of deer.
http://www.chatsworth.org/attractions-and-events/park/about-the-park
http://www.bluediamond.gg/chatsworth-garden-centre/

1. Dovedale
With hills, rocks, stepping stones and a babbling river, Dovedale is all you could ask for when looking for an idyllic spot for a picnic. Take a walk past the lions head rock, venture into the dove holes and if you're adventurous and somewhat fit, try a mini-hike up Thorpe Cloud. If you're there on a hot day, you can paddle or even swim in the river, and take the stepping stones to the other side. Don't forget to call for an ice-cream on your way home.
http://www.derbyshireuk.net/dovedale.html



The Red Lion
If you like dining al-fresco but don't want to carry a picnic with you, why not pop in and see us for a spot of al-fresco lunch after a walk in the peaks? We serve afternoon tea, starters, mains, desserts and sandwiches too, so there's something for everyone. A sample menu can be found on our website (link below). We serve fresh food daily, so our menu changes accordingly. Please call us to find out about the days menu along with our delicious specials.
http://www.peakedgehotel.co.uk/pdfs/lunchmenu.pdf

Happy picnicking...

Peak Edge Hotel at the Red Lion x