Skip the usual crowds and try the quieter side of English country life.
These towns and villages offer stone-built charm, friendly markets, green walks, and slow-lane weekends without the crush of tourist traffic.
Expect warm pubs, independent shops, and pretty streets that feel lived-in rather than staged. It is the peaceful countryside break you want, without the queues.
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1. Buxton
The stunning spa town of Buxton has been attracting crowds who enjoy its natural thermal springs since Roman times. Much of its beautiful Georgian and Victorian architecture is said to be rooted in the 5th Duke of Devonshire's ambitions to create a rival spa town to Bath in the 18th century. (Pictured is the view of the Old Hall Hotel and the Devonshire Dome.) | Visit Peak District & Derbyshire
2. Wirksworth
Wirksworth is a highly rated Derbyshire market town, recently named by The Sunday Times as the best place to live in Derbyshire. With its grand stone buildings, pretty alleys and cobblestone streets, it is easy to see why. Its grand literary connections also include DH Lawrence who lived and wrote in Wirksworth. | Visit Peak District & Derbyshire
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3. Bakewell
Bakewell famous for its pudding and tart also boasts ancient open air markets and pretty views across the River Wye. | Visit Peak District & Derbyshire
4. Curbar
This stunning hillside village of Curbar showcases jaw-dropping views across Derwent Valley and the White Peak. | Visit Peak District & Derbyshire