Exploring the Peak District National Park by motorhome is a relaxed way to experience Derbyshire’s villages, scenic drives and countryside at your own pace. This 5-day itinerary follows a practical route between key highlights while keeping daily driving distances manageable.
Day 1: Ashbourne and Dovedale
Begin your trip in Ashbourne, widely known as the southern gateway to the Peak District and an easy access point if arriving from the Midlands or M1 corridor. Its independent shops, traditional cafés and historic market-town streets make a relaxed first stop before heading into the National Park itself.
A short drive brings you to Dovedale, one of Derbyshire’s best-known walking areas. The stepping stones across the River Dove are particularly popular, so arriving earlier in the day helps avoid queues during spring and summer weekends. The riverside trail is maintained by the National Trust.
Overnighting near Ashbourne keeps day-one driving light. Sites around Thorpe and Ilam work especially well for motorhomes.
Day 2: Bakewell and Chatsworth
Head north towards Bakewell, a compact riverside town known for its traditional pudding and attractive stone buildings. It’s an easy place to park a smaller motorhome on the outskirts before exploring on foot.
From here it’s only a short drive to Chatsworth House, one of Derbyshire’s standout attractions. The estate includes extensive gardens, parkland walks and seasonal farmyard activities.
Allow at least half a day to explore properly, particularly if travelling in warmer months when the grounds are at their best.
Staying overnight near Baslow or Edensor keeps you well positioned for the next stage of the route while avoiding unnecessary backtracking.
Day 3: Castleton and Winnats Pass
Continue towards Castleton in the Hope Valley, surrounded by dramatic limestone hills and some of the Peak District’s most recognisable scenery. The village itself is small but makes a good base for visiting Blue John Cavern or walking up Mam Tor for panoramic views across the valley.
Approaching via Winnats Pass is one of the highlights of the entire trip. The limestone gorge is spectacular, although larger motorhomes should take it slowly and avoid peak traffic periods where possible.
Overnight stops around Hope Valley, Bamford or Edale give convenient access to walking routes directly from your pitch.
Day 4: Ladybower Reservoir and Snake Pass
Travel north towards Ladybower Reservoir for waterside viewpoints and easy walking trails. Early morning or late afternoon tends to be the quietest time to visit and offers the best light for photography across the open moorland landscape.
Confident drivers may wish to continue along Snake Pass towards Glossop. The road is one of the Peak District’s most scenic upland routes, though weather conditions can change quickly outside summer months, so checking forecasts beforehand is worthwhile.
Afterwards, stay near Hathersage or Bamford, both of which provide good access back into central Derbyshire.
Day 5: Matlock Bath and Cromford
Finish your trip in Matlock Bath and nearby Cromford, where the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site tells the story of the area’s industrial past.
Cromford Mill is particularly interesting if you enjoy heritage locations that are easy to explore at a relaxed pace.
Alternatively, the Heights of Abraham cable cars offer wide views across the valley and make a memorable final stop before beginning your journey home.
Best campsites in Derbyshire
Derbyshire offers a wide choice of motorhome-friendly campsites across the Peak District, from larger serviced touring parks to quieter farm locations with excellent countryside access.
Sites around Ashbourne are ideal starting points for southern routes, while Hope Valley locations work particularly well for visiting Mam Tor, Castleton and Ladybower Reservoir without needing to move base each day. Bakewell and Baslow are also popular for their proximity to Chatsworth and surrounding walking routes.
For campsite availability across the region, the Peak District touring directory is useful: https://visitpeakdistrict.com/business-directory/category/camping-caravanning-touring-parks
Booking ahead is recommended during spring, summer and school holiday periods, when Peak District touring pitches fill quickly.
