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

How 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
How 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
How 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
How 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

How 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
How 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

How 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
At 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







