Top picks for wet weather days out in the Peak District

Monday, 13 February 2012 12:54 PM

By booking Peak District holiday cottages, you will be visiting one of the most beautiful parts of the UK, which is famed for its awe-inspiring natural scenery. However, don't be blue if your break is blighted by grey clouds, as there is plenty to do on wet days.

Indeed, the abundance of interesting towns and historical houses in the region of the national park mean you will not have to travel far to find something to do when it is raining.

To find out our top picks, read on.

Bakewell

You may be familiar with the name of this Derbyshire town, as it is home of the tart and pudding of the same name.

Nothing cheers up a rainy day more than heading somewhere warm for a bite to eat and you can taste a host of delights when you visit Bakewell.

Make your way to the Bakewell Tart Shop and Coffee House where you can taste the pastry in the town where it became famous. Indeed, this eatery has been serving the snack for more than 50 years.

This shop claims to be the only place that sells the tart cooked to the original recipe, which was invented by accident when an inexperienced cook misunderstood the lady of the house's instructions when preparing a pudding.

The recipe is stored in a fireproof safe so that Bakewell tarts can continue to be made for generations to come - so why not buy a couple to eat back at your holiday cottages for rent?

Chatsworth

Chatsworth House will be instantly recognisable to film fans, as it was featured in the 2005 adaptation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, which starred Keira Knightley in the role of Elizabeth Bennett.

Indeed, it is also mentioned in the original novel by Austen, who noted that Miss Bennett visited it before she arrived at the home of Mr Darcy.

As well as strolling around the grand house, you can also take a walk in the garden or farmyard if the sun eventually comes out.

Hardwick Hall

This is another site you will recognise if you're a regular cinema-goer, as it has been featured in the Harry Potter films.

The building was chosen to be Malfoy Manor in The Deathly Hallows - the final chapter in the hit wizarding franchise.

Again, there is more than just the beautiful house to explore here, as you can also visit Stainsby Mill and find out what it was like to work as a 19th century miller, or visit the ruins of the Old Hall.