EXCURSIONS

Manchester Excursions

Peak District

The Peak District was England's first national park. This beautiful region sits in the central and northern parts of England, largely within picturesque Derbyshire. Diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife and a rich historic heritage combine with busy market towns and thriving cities such as Sheffield and Manchester. With over 22 million visitors annually, the Peak District is a major UK tourist destination, and the Peak District National Park is the second most visited park in the world. The District is generally divided into three main areas, each with its own distinctive topography. White Peak in the south is characterised by its limestone landscapes with a blend of flat plateaus and gentle valleys, while the South West Peak is a mix of hay meadows and moorland. The most sparsely populated area is Dark Peak in the north, where dramatic gritstone plateaus, craggy edges and ridges contrast with deep valleys. The whole region is rife with quaint towns, majestic historic homes, old mills and museums, as well as plenty to please the outdoor enthusiast, including top-class rock climbing, caving and fly fishing. Visitors can enjoy an authentic Bakewell pudding in Bakewell, take a leisurely hot air balloon ride for a bird's eye view, mountain bike in the Hope Valley near Charleston or travel back in time in an impressive country manor. It is not hard to see why the Peak District is so immensely popular and it is well worth spending some time exploring its many treasures.

Manchester Excursions

Chatsworth House

Home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, Chatsworth House is one of Europe's greatest private houses. It is set on the River Derwent in the Peak District National Park. The estate comprises the 16th century house, a 1,000-acre park, a farmyard, miles of free walks and spectacular gardens. Dubbed the 'Palace of the Peak', the house contains a treasure trove of antiques and impressive art works, some dating back 4,000 years; 30 of the magnificently preserved rooms are open to the public. Wardens are on hand to provide information and answer questions, while an audio guide is also available. The manicured gardens boast a yew maze, sculptures and several impressive fountains including the Cascade, a 24-step waterfall that drops 600ft (183m) down the hill towards the house. There is a well-stocked farm shop selling locally produced and home grown items, as well as the farmyard children's shop, the Carriage House shop, Orangery shop and garden shop. There are several restaurant options to choose from, and picnicking in the grounds is encouraged. Chatsworth House has appeared in the recent film adaptation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, and the house plays host to several exciting events throughout the year. It is well worth allocating several hours to explore this fine historic estate and its gardens, while those on a tighter budget can enjoy the dramatic surrounds of the park for free.

Address: Bakewell, Derbyshire; Website: www.chatsworth.org; Telephone: (0)1246 565 300; Transport: Chatsworth is a 1.5 hour drive from Manchester; Opening time: Open March to December anually (see website for details). House open daily 11am to 5.30pm, last admission 4.30pm, garden open daily 11am to 6pm, last admission 5pm; Admission: �11.50 (adults), �6.25 (children). Entry to the park is free. Prices vary according to areas visited, as well as inclusion or exclusion of gift aid donation