Michelle Fiddler explores the beauty of the Peak District National Park
Dec 20 2011 by Michelle Fiddler, Liverpool Echo
IT’S difficult to find anything to fault when visiting the Peak District.
Beautiful rolling countryside, quaint villages and breathtaking views across the National Park – what’s not to like?
It’s hard to believe that as the crow flies the Peak District is just a hop, skip and a jump from the city although in reality it feels like a million miles away.
Myself and my partner chose to drive from Liverpool and took an A-road route which took us through Macclesfield and Buxton.
Part of the drive involves a trip across the A537 Cat and Fiddle Road to take in the kind of views that make you proud to be living in Britain.
Our destination – the Peak Edge Hotel – is tucked away between Chesterfield and Matlock and nestled alongside the Peak District National Park.
The hotel – which has only been open for a few months – was built as a result of the success and popularity of the adjoining Red Lion Bar and Bistro – a 16th century former inn. Both establishments are owned by husband and wife team Damian and Jo Dugdale.
The Red Lion has everything I love about a traditional British eating and drinking establishment – roaring log fires, intimate alcoves, exposed stone walls and a comfy lounge area in which to kick back after enjoying a lovely meal.
But if the bar is a trip back in time the hotel is a fine example of a futuristic cool and contemporary boutique hotel.
There are only 27 bedrooms but the rooms are large, spacious and comfortable.
