Throughout the Peak District there are dozens of beautiful villages nestled in the dramatic landscape.
But there’s one in particular which boasts some rather unique features and is definitely worth a visit.
Not far from the iconic Mam Tor lies the village of Castleton, where you’ll find narrow roads lined with quaint stone cottages and impressive caves each with their own special characteristics.
It’s just a short walk away from the impressive Winnats Pass, a breath-taking limestone gorge with a road winding through it that is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular sights in the Peak District.
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The village is overlooked by the ruins of Peveril Castle, which was completed in 1086 for William Peverel, one of William the Conqueror's favourite knights.
Peveril Castle is operated by English Heritage and if you decide to make the trek to the top you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of the Peak District.
But if you fancy something different to climbing up, why not descend down on a tour of one of Castleton’s caves - there’s plenty to choose from.
Peak Cavern is the most impressive from the outside - it boasts the largest cave entrance in Britain at 60 ft high and is often used for special events and concerts. It’s known locally as The Devil’s Arse.
There’s a lovely path leading up to the cave from the village which follows the river.
At the Speedwell Cavern you can take an underground boat ride along a canal inside the cave; in a former life an old lead mine which was flooded.
It takes you to a huge cavern containing the Bottomless Pit, a magnificent subterranean lake.
Or you can go on a guided tour of Blue John Cave or Treak Cliff Cavern, which both have large deposits of Blue John Stone, a mineral unique to the area.
There’s several shops in the village where you can purchase jewellery and other items made from the beautiful stone - the perfect souvenir for your visit.
If you fancy more of a relaxed visit and aren’t too fond of heights or enclosed spaces, then a relaxing wander around the village itself is a great option.
When the weather’s nice you can grab an ice cream or some fish and chips if you’re hungry and take in the pretty buildings.
For a hearty meal there’s several pubs you can visit, including Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese Inn, and Ye Olde Nags Head.
Castleton also has its own quirky annual tradition. Each year the village has a special celebration on May 29.
Called Garland Day, it was first celebrated to commemorate Charles II regaining the crown. A Garland King wears a large garland of flowers and walks through the streets of the village.
How to get there
You can walk to Castleton from Edale or Hope train stations which both serve Manchester, so you can incorporate your visit as a stop off on your walk.
Castleton is about an hour and 15 minutes drive away from Manchester and there is parking available although it can be busy during peak times and prices will vary.
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