Possibly the most beloved  Peak District village – and for excellent reason – this destination boasts all the appeal of regional specialities, breathtaking rambles and stately homes.

As part of the Peak District National Park, Bakewell is a town in Derbyshire visited by holidaymakers eager to explore its attractions and sample the confectionery for which it’s renowned. That is, naturally, the ultimate pairing, the Bakewell pudding and Bakewell tart, available throughout numerous bakeries locally, with several professing to possess the authentic recipe.

Places where visitors can pause and experience the regional delicacies include The Bakewell Tart Shop and Coffee House, Fountain View Bakery, Cornish Bakery and even The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop. A recent patron, who sampled the celebrated puddings at the original shop, said: “This establishment was a high-priority visit for us whilst we were staying in the Peak District, as my partner loves Bakewell tarts.

“We were so excited to find it and were impressed by how many items were in the store available to buy.” Scrumptious delights notwithstanding, the village proves a favoured location, being within easy reach of several period properties and hiking routes.

Most notably, the magnificent Monsal Trail provides spectacular panoramas of an old disused railway bridge. Indeed, it stands as the highest-rated attraction locally, according to TripAdvisor reviews.

One visitor who completed the walk said “The views are just incredible with a lovely mix of scenery. You can start off at the pub and enjoy the views of the viaduct.

“Walk down the trail and capture the scenery of the valley from the top of the viaduct. Then follow down into the valley and wander across the trail down towards the weir.”

Beyond this, visitors flock to discover the expansive estate of Chatsworth House and naturally, venture inside the magnificent buildings steeped in heritage. The grand residence features 25 rooms available to tour, from sweeping galleries to state apartments and a spectacular painted hall, whilst learning about the distinguished family who formerly resided there.

Recognised as one of Derbyshire’s most impressive country estates, Chatsworth plays host to various events and attractions year-round that are well worth monitoring, including the Chatsworth Christmas Market. A recent delighted guest commented: “We visited Chatsworth House to see the Christmas experience and were delighted with how magnificent this place is.”

They went on to add: “The house is spectacular, and the Christmas decorations just added to the magic of this beautiful place. The grounds are also incredible. I wish that I had allowed more time and seen more of the garden during the day.”

Bakewell, a tranquil town nestled along the River Wye and approximately 15 miles from Sheffield, is the largest settlement within the National Park. Believed to have been established during the Anglo-Saxon era, it now houses around 3,695 residents, as recorded in 2019.