Castleton, Peak District travel guide and Castleton information

Visit Castleton

Castleton is an attractive (and very popular) village at the western end of the Hope Valley, in the Peak District.

A traditional Peak District village, on the large stream known as Peakshole Water, Castleton is in a very impressive location surrounded by dramatic hill scenery.

Visit Castleton

The village itself is small and quick to explore, mostly around the small square next to the chuch and along the stream

There are plenty of pubs, teashops etc. in the village and opportunities to buy Blue John (the local semi-precious stone).

Apart from the attractions of the village itself Castleton is also well known for:

- A series of caves that are open to the public: Blue John Cavern, Peak Cavern, Speedwell Cavern and Treak Cliff Cavern. Treak Cliff has the most impressive stalactites and rock formations, while Speedwell is accessed via a popular subterranean boat trip. The semi-precious mineral known as Blue-John is still mined here in small quanities.

- The remains of 12th century Peveril Castle, that stand on the hill above the village and are reached by a steep path from the village. The castle keep is still standing, although the rest of the structure is completely ruined. The views across the valley from the castle are very impressive.

- Very good access to some fine Peak District walks. There are several easy walks from the village, also the walk up Cave Dale, while the more enthusiastic head for Great Ridge / Mam Tor or the other walks in the hills above the village.

Winnats is a steep, narrow road to the west of the village that passes through the scenic Winnats Pass and impressive limestone peaks. (The road is not open to lorries, heavy vehicles, coaches etc). Cyclists might find the road entertaining if challenging - it reaches a 20% gradient at its steepest parts.

You can find more local travel ideas in the Peak District guide and the