5 underrated Peak District villages that you should visit in 2024

In terms of the UK’s natural beauty, the Peak District is right up there at the top of the tree. 

The national park, which is visited by around 13 million people each year, boasts 555 square miles of untouched countryside. 

If you’re from Derby then chances are you’ve made a fair few trips to the Peak District over the years, either on school trips or family holidays. 

Read more: Things to do near Derby

Most visitors choose to look around the popular towns of Bakewell, Buxton and Matlock. 

But if you’re looking for a truly authentic experience in the Peak District, sometimes it’s worth picking the path less trodden (literally). 

There are loads of stunning Peak District villages that don’t often get the love they deserve, which makes them great for those who do decide to visit. 

We’ve picked out five underrated Peak District villages that you should definitely pay a visit to in 2024. 

Pilsley 

Many of those who visit the Peak District stop by Chatsworth House, but the small village of Pilsley on the Chatsworth Estate doesn’t get nearly as much love. 

It’s home to the Chatsworth Farm Shop, a pub and a gallery. The village’s fete is held every July. 

Fenny Bentley

The brilliantly-named Fenny Bentley, just north of Ashbourne, is only home to a few hundred people but its quaint charm makes it an underrated Peak District spot. 

Stop for a bite to eat at the Coach and Horses pub, just beside the A515, after a long day walking. 

Birchover

The pretty village of Birchover sits north-west of Matlock and comprises dozens of traditional stone cottages.

A trip to Birchover wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Rowtor Rocks - a complex cave network strewn with unusual carvings.   

Sheldon

Bakewell is undoubtedly one of the most popular Peak District towns, but why not give the nearby village of Sheldon a look in 2024?

The village is essentially a single road with stunning stone cottages either side. The Cock and Pullet pub makes the perfect pit-stop after a day exploring the village and nearby countryside. 

Kniveton

Kniveton is the archetypal Peak District village. With a pub, a small Church of England primary school and a cluster of traditional homes, it probably didn’t look much different 200 years ago. 

The village is just three miles north of Ashbourne, which is easily accessible by foot or bicycle.