Sandwiched between Manchester and Sheffield, England’s oldest national park has two personalities: a tough and a gentle side. In the north are the Dark Peak’s wind-whipped moorland and dramatic edges like Kinder Scout – the Peak District’s highest plateau – which rewards adventurous walkers with stark views. Venture south for the lower, greener, meadow-covered dales of the White Peak. Walk along the Ecclesbourne Valley to experience both in one day.

England’s first national park, the Peak District is the southernmost point of the Pennines. Climbers head to the gritstone outcrops of Stanage Edge or the Roaches to ascend the cliffs and boulders, and, with many underground formations, this is a popular destination for cavers too. Those that prefer to wander cave networks rather than scramble through them can join tours at the vast limestone caves of Poole’s Cavern or the mining experience at Treak Cliff Cavern.