From the rugged moorland in the north to the beautiful limestone valleys in the south, the Peak District is a rich and diverse landscape full of amazing places to visit. One of these is the village of Hartington, which lies east of the River Dove in the White Peak area, around a 90 minute drive from Greater Manchester.
At first glance this village feels a little different to others within the Peak District. The buildings are more generously-proportioned than the tiny cottages you’ll find elsewhere, while the village is centred around a large square with a charming duck pond.
These impressive buildings give you a glimpse into Hartington’s past as a prosperous trading hub. The village was of great importance to the local rural community during the Middle Ages and it was granted a market charter in the 13th century.
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It later became known for its cheesemaking after the Duke of Devonshire opened a creamery in the 1870s in the village. The creamery produced Stilton, its own unique Dovedale cheese and other varieties such as Buxton Blue cheese.
Although the original creamery closed down in 2009, the village’s cheese-making heritage is still celebrated at The Old Cheese Shop, which is famous for its variety of cheese and attracts visitors from far and wide. More local produce can be found at The Village Stores, housed in an impressive three-storey building. It sells everything you could want, from fresh sandwiches to local beers.
Hartington’s prosperous past is evident elsewhere in the village. The grand Hartington Hall, a 17th century manor house, where Bonnie Prince Charles allegedly once spent the night, is now a youth hostel - and probably one of the grandest ones in the country, with log fires, oak panelling and stained glass windows.
YHA Hartington Hall has a range of accommodation options, from shared dorms, private rooms and even bell tents outside. It's ideal if you're looking for a warm and cosy base to explore the surrounding area from.
Another place to stay is The Devonshire Arms, located in the heart of the village. A Grade II-listed building, it has three boutique bedrooms while the dog-friendly pub serves a range of classic dishes, bar snacks and seasonal specials.
On Hartington’s doorstep is miles upon miles of gorgeous countryside to explore. The Tissington Trail and High Peak trail, two major national cycle network routes, pass close to the village. Three miles away is the starting point of the Manifold Way, an eight-mile walking and cycle trail along the route of a former railway.
To the south of the village, Beresford Dale and Wolfscote Dale both offer beautiful walks and for amazing views of the area you can climb the top of Wolfscote Hill. To the north is Pilsbury Castle, a scenic spot where a castle once stood, although the remains are long gone, it’s still a pretty location with grassy mounds and a rocky outcrop.
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