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Where to find the best autumn colours in the Peak District

September 3, 2024
September 3, 2024 - Where to find the best autumn colours in the Peak District
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Discover the best autumn colours in the Peak District

A woman, man and small child in autumn hiking gear exploring a forest on the Longshaw EstateAs the crisp autumn air sets in and the vibrant greens of summer transform into glorious reds, oranges, and golds, there's no better place to experience the magic of the season than in the Peak District. Nestled right in the heart of this stunning landscape, Hoe Grange Holidays offers the perfect base for exploring the best autumn colours in the Peak District. Whether you’re seeking the perfect dog-friendly walk or an accessible trail for wheelchairs and pushchairs, we’ve got you covered.

Read on to discover the best spots to soak up the autumnal splendour, all within easy reach of Hoe Grange!

Image credit: Visit Peak District & Derbyshire

1. High Peak Trail

Cyclist on the High Peak Trail in autumn

Walker jumping for joy on the High Peak TrailHow to get there: Accessible directly from the farm!

The High Peak Trail is one of the most accessible and breathtaking ways to enjoy the autumn colours in the Peak District. This 17.5-mile trail, built along a former railway line, winds through some of the most scenic landscapes in the area. With a gentle, traffic-free path that's perfect for walking, cycling, and even horse riding, it's an ideal spot to discover the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the autumn foliage. The section of the trail near Hoe Grange offers stunning views over the Derbyshire countryside, framed by the fiery leaves of ancient woodlands.

Accessibility: The trail is well-maintained, with a smooth flat surface. Hire our Boma 7 off-road wheelchair to get up the fields and explore the trail with ease!

Dog-friendly: Yes! The High Peak Trail is an excellent place to walk your dog, enclosed by fencing or walls and with plenty of interesting things to sniff!

2. Carsington Water

Carsington Water at sunsetHow to get there: A short 10-minute drive or a lovely cycle along the High Peak Trail

Parking: There's plenty of parking available at the visitor centre, or partway round the reservoir at Sheepwash and Millfields. Your numberplate is captured as you drive in, so make sure you pay for your parking as you leave.

Carsington Water is a fantastic destination to immerse yourself in the magic of autumn in the Peak District! This large reservoir is surrounded by a patchwork of woodland and grasslands, all of which burst into vivid shades of orange, red, and yellow. With a network of paths and trails around the reservoir, it offers stunning panoramic views that are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a cycling adventure. The reflective surface of the water mirrors the surrounding trees, creating a magical effect. Pop into one of the cafes or the restaurant in the visitor centre for a tasty treat too.

Accessibility: The paved pathways around the reservoir are suitable for wheelchair users and pushchairs. You can hire one of two trampers for free too, on a first come, first served basis. The visitor centre has disabled parking and a Changing Places toilet.

Dog-friendly: Carsington Water welcomes dogs, making it a great place for a walk with your furry friend. Dogs will enjoy the variety of trails and open spaces, but please keep them on a lead in designated areas and around wildlife.

3. Cromford Canal

Reflections on the water of the canal with autumn leaves all aroundHow to get there: A short 12-minute drive or an 8-mile cycle along the High Peak Trail

Parking: There's a council-run car park at Cromford Wharf with Pay & Display parking

Cromford Canal is a haven of tranquility and vibrant autumn colours. This 5.5-mile stretch of water is lined with mature trees that explode into a kaleidoscope of colours from late September onwards. The reflections in the still water make for stunning photo opportunities! There are several cafes serving hot drinks, warm lunches and yummy cakes for before and after your walk too.

Accessibility: The wide, flat towpath is ideal for wheelchair users, people with limited mobility and pushchairs. There are several access points, and parking is available at the Cromford Wharf end of the canal, as well as a Changing Places toilet.

Dog-friendly: Yes! Cromford Canal is a great place to bring your four-legged friends. Dogs will love the leisurely walk along the tow path with plenty of exciting things to explore.

Image credit: Visit Peak District & Derbyshire

4. Lumsdale Valley

Water rushing over the edge at Lumsdale WaterfallHow to get there: A short 20-minute drive or a hilly but satisfying 11-mile cycle

Parking: There's a small car park near the waterfall

Lumsdale Valley offers a magical blend of autumn colours, cascading waterfalls, and historic ruins. This hidden gem provides a relatively short yet rewarding walk through ancient woodland, where the leaves turn golden, and the air is filled with the sound of water rushing through the valley. Pop into Matlock town centre afterwards for a cup of tea and a bite to eat.

Accessibility: The terrain is quite steep and uneven.

Dog-friendly: Absolutely! Dogs will love exploring the woodland paths and splashing in the shallow streams. Just keep an eye on them near the steeper sections and water features.

5. Chatsworth House Gardens

Colourful autumn leaves on trees in front of Chatsworth House

Glorious autumn colours over a bridge on Chatsworth EstateHow to get there: A 25-minute drive

Parking: Available on-site, price included in your garden entry ticket if you book online in advance

A visit to the Peak District in autumn wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the grandeur of Chatsworth House and its magnificent gardens. Located just 25 minutes from Hoe Grange, the gardens are a delight in the autumn months, with over 105 acres of woodland and gardens turning brilliant shades of red, gold, and amber. The standout feature is the Arboretum, where a variety of trees provide a spectacular display of autumn foliage.

Accessibility: The main garden areas are accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs. There are accessible toilets (including a Changing Places toilet) and designated disabled parking near the entrance. You can book a free mobility scooter to explore, or even a guided garden buggy tour if you want to rest your legs.

Dog-friendly: Well behaved dogs on leads are welcome in the garden and park, and assistance dogs are allowed in the house and farmyard as well.

Image credit: Visit Peak District & Derbyshire

6. Lathkill Dale

Close-up of ferns turning orangeHow to get there: A 20-minute drive

Parking: There's a small car park near the toilets, or you can park in Monyash near the Bulls Head and walk down.

Much quieter than the infamous Dovedale, Lathkill Dale is one of the Peak District’s most picturesque dales, and it is especially enchanting in the autumn. The limestone valley, with its gently flowing river, is lined with woodlands that burst into vibrant colours during the fall months. The mix of open fields, limestone crags, and wooded areas offers a rich variety of scenery that is perfect for a leisurely autumn walk. This serene setting also provides ample opportunities to spot local wildlife, including kingfishers and dippers, making it a nature lover’s paradise. Stop off at the Bulls Head afterwards for a well-deserved drink and a delicious meal, or pop to the ice cream shop next door.

Accessibility: The terrain in Lathkill Dale can be uneven and rocky in parts, with some steep sections.

Dog-friendly: Definitely! Lathkill Dale is an ideal spot for dog walkers. Dogs will enjoy the variety of terrain, from riverside paths to open fields. Be mindful of livestock in some areas, and keep your dog on a lead where necessary.

7. Longshaw Estate and Padley Gorge

Autumn colours over the rier at Padley Gorge

Autumn on the moors near the Longshaw Estate with soft purple heather in the foregroundHow to get there: A 35-minute drive

A bit further afield, but well worth the drive, the Longshaw Estate is a National Trust property located about 35 minutes from Hoe Grange. It offers a variety of trails through ancient woodlands, open moorlands, and alongside tranquil lakes. In autumn, the woodlands are a patchwork of spectacular colours, and the views across the Peak District are nothing short of breathtaking. Within the estate, you’ll also find Padley Gorge, a stunning wooded valley where autumn colours are especially vibrant, and moss-covered rocks and gentle streams create a fairytale-like atmosphere.

Accessibility: The estate has some accessible trails, including the Woodland Discovery Trail, which is suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Accessible parking and facilities are available at the visitor centre.

Dog-friendly: Longshaw is perfect for dogs, with plenty of open spaces and woodland areas to explore. Remember to keep your dog on a lead in areas where livestock is present.

Enjoy the best autumn colours in the Peak District with an autumn getaway

The base of a tree surrounded by crunchy orange autumn leavesAt Hoe Grange Holidays, you're nestled in the Peak District hills, with so many stunning autumn hotspots right on your doorstep.

Our cosy log cabins and gorgeous glamping pods offer a comfortable retreat after a day of leaf-peeping and exploring, complete with all the home comforts you need for a relaxing break. We welcome dogs in all our log cabins and pods too, so no need to leave your four-legged friends behind.

With accessible log cabins and additional equipment too, everyone can enjoy the magic of autumn in the Peak District.

So why wait? Book your autumn getaway at Hoe Grange Holidays today and immerse yourself in the vibrant beauty of the season! Whether you're walking along a canal, exploring historic valleys, or wandering through stately gardens, the Peak District's autumn colours are sure to leave you in awe.

- Caroline

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Hoe Grange Holidays Tripadvisor Comments...

  • star rating  We spent four nights at Hoe Grange and had a lovely time. The location is fantastic and right next to the High Peak Trail. The cabin was very clean and... read more

    Big_Al_0000
    July 16, 2019

    star rating  Stayed last week, from 6th to 13th September in the log cabin called Hipley. This was amazing, it was our first visit but certainly not our last. Gold standard disability... read more

    548julie
    September 14, 2019

    star rating  Recently spent a week in "Pinder" and had a lovely time. The location is stunning - the site is nestled in a beautiful valley on the edge of the Peaks... read more

    Peachey167
    July 16, 2019
  • star rating  We love this place. Very wheelchair friendly, really well equipped and comfortable, with easy access by car to lots of places of interest particularly Crich Tramway Village, Chatsworth, Bakewell and... read more

    dghiggs61
    October 25, 2019

    star rating  What can I say?
    Absolutely superb!
    We have just returned from a family weekend staying in Daisybank cabin and the Skylark pod.
    It was our first trip away with my... read more

    Wheelieuser
    June 13, 2019

    star rating  What a lovely weekend away! We stayed in the lovely gypsy caravan, which was a wonderful and really unique experience. We took along our two horses, who also had a... read more

    rachelthomas2015
    June 18, 2019
  • star rating  On arriving at Hoe Grange in a downpour, we doubted if we’d made the right decision to go glamping, but after the warm welcome from David and a quick tour,... read more

    karenmD4738KD
    June 25, 2019

    star rating  Loved every minute of our stay, and so did the family and friends that came to stay. Excellent facilities in our cosy Hipley log cabin. By far the best... read more

    krimpenijssel
    October 25, 2019

    star rating  We've just returned from our second visit to Hoe Grange. The suggested riding routes with stunning scenery were enjoyed by my daughter and I while the menfolk were delighted with... read more

    Jdrichie12
    July 11, 2019
  • star rating  We had a lovely time staying in one of the incredibly well equipped pods. I bought my pony along and we had some great rides on the high peak trail.... read more

    plopster1
    June 7, 2019

    star rating  We stayed in Skylark, one of the two glamping pods available at Hoe Grange in February 2020.

    Felicity & David welcomed us when we arrived to show us around... read more

    HelenLCarter
    February 6, 2020

    star rating  Felicity and David made us feel very welcome right from our booking. The pods are well equipped and spotlessly clean. The area is very peaceful with great views and we... read more

    Adventurer_12121
    January 30, 2020
  • star rating  Another great holiday at Hoe Grange - such a great place for us all to holiday as a family - this time with a baby, a 3 yr old, a... read more

    Thesamps
    October 4, 2019

    star rating  Lovely place to holiday near to interesting locations and easy access to the High Peak trail and Carsington Water. Part of a working farm with fresh produce to enjoy during... read more

    Angie B
    August 3, 2019

    star rating  We have just returned from a short stay in one of the pods on site at Hoe Grange Holidays. We couldn’t recommend them enough. The pod has everything you could... read more

    Catboy86
    August 17, 2019
  • star rating  lovely surroundings real farm country with chickens paying you a visit nice decking area to chill at the end of the day accommodation very good plenty to do nearby... read more

    vincent s
    July 28, 2019

    star rating  For the second year running, we have had a great family holiday at Hoe Grange. We had one cabin for the week, for two sisters and our elderly wheelchair-using... read more

    EJYork2013
    June 25, 2019

    star rating  It's been three years since we last visited but once we arrived it certainly didn't feel like it!
    We stayed in Hipley again which had had a refurbished wet... read more

    ElizabethA717
    September 21, 2019
  • star rating  Myself and my sister travelled to Costa Rica and Panama via Viva Holidays Ltd. The holiday was exceptional and one to be treasured forever. Andrew at Viva Holidays... read more

    Paula C
    July 4, 2019

    star rating  We wanted a complete break and some peace and quiet and this was perfect. The caravan was secluded with beautiful views over the countryside. Everything was spotlessly clean and well... read more

    joanne B
    June 4, 2019

    star rating  We stayed in Pinder cabin and had a lovely stay, the cabin was spacious and comfortable, nice and warm after cold days out. The children loved meeting the animals and... read more

    Tiggywinkle15
    November 5, 2019
  • star rating  Arrived and was shown to our pod, fantastic location and the pod was very good indeed plus we had home made bread and milk and tea and coffee. A... read more

    mickvfr
    July 28, 2019

    star rating  We stayed in Rainster cabin for a long weekend 6 th to 9 th September. This was my 5 th visit to the amazing Hoe Grange. I had visited before... read more

    Jan Horsman J
    September 17, 2019

    star rating  Second visit to the accessible holiday cabins at Hoe Grange. David and Felicity were as helpful and friendly as ever. We had a welcome pack of freshly baked bread, butter,... read more

    Charlotte M
    August 7, 2019
  • star rating  We stayed in the Skylark pod last October (2018) and had a lovely time. There was homemade, rustic goods (bread, biscuits etc) when we arrived. Felicity and David who run... read more

    KBarry
    September 15, 2019

    star rating  We stayed for a night in one of the cabins . The cabin was spotless and very well equipped , lots of extra touches were added like fresh eggs and... read more

    Ajtravels14
    February 3, 2020

    star rating  We love this place. Very wheelchair friendly, really well equipped and comfortable, with easy access by car to lots of places of interest particularly Crich Tramway Village, Chatsworth, Bakewell and... read more

    David H
    October 25, 2019
  • star rating  A beautiful place to stay! Amazingly run family business! Everyone were very welcoming, friendly and cozy! The skylark pod we stayed in was very clean, cozy and well equipped! The... read more

    sophiee249
    January 2, 2020

    star rating  What a wonderful find. As our first experience of needing accessible accommodation we could not have wished for better. Beautiful well equipped lodges in lovely surroundings. We stayed in both... read more

    L9943KBlesleym
    April 3, 2020

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