Chatsworth and The Charming Rails of the Peak District

A journey of elegance, nostalgia, and countryside charm.  Step into a bygone era on this unforgettable journey through the heart of England, where heritage railways and aristocratic grandeur come together in perfect harmony. Relive the golden age of rail travel aboard lovingly restored vintage trains as you glide through the rolling hills, quaint villages, and dramatic landscapes of the Peak District.  At the heart of your adventure is a visit to the magnificent Chatsworth House—one of Britain’s most celebrated stately homes. Explore its opulent interiors, rich with history and art, and wander through beautifully landscaped gardens that stretch across the Derbyshire countryside.  Your base for this scenic escape is the Mercure Kenwood Hall Hotel & Spa, an elegant retreat set in tranquil grounds just outside Sheffield—ideally located for discovering the very best of the Peak District.

Price Includes

• Luxury coaching from Coleraine, Ballymoney, Cloughmills, Ballymena, Dunsilly, Belfast, Banbridge, Newry, and Stena Line Port Dublin
• Return ferry crossing with Stena Line – Dublin/Holyhead
• 4 nights’ accommodation in the 4* Mercure Kenwood Hotel and Spa, Sheffield
• Breakfast and evening meals
• Use of the hotel’s leisure facilities
• Visit Bakewell and Entrance to Chatsworth House and Gardens
• Visit Matlock and journey on Peak Rail – 30-minute train ride (Rowsley South to Matlock)
• Journey on the Heritage railway – Ecclesbourne Valley Railway – 30-45 Minutes train ride and free time in Buxton
• Tour of Derbyshire’s High Peaks/National Park
• Services of an experienced Travel Solutions tour manager

Day 1: Arrival in Sheffield & Relaxation Join your coach at your chosen departure point and travel to Dublin for the morning ferry crossing to Holyhead. Upon arrival in Wales, we continue our journey across scenic countryside with a comfort stop en route, before arriving in Derbyshire by late afternoon. Once we arrive at the elegant Mercure Kenwood Hall Hotel & Spa near Sheffield, check in and take some time to unwind. You may wish to explore the beautiful grounds, make use of the hotel’s leisure and spa facilities, or simply freshen up before enjoying dinner.

Day 2: Bakewell & Chatsworth House After breakfast (your tour manager will confirm the departure time), we set off for the charming market town of Bakewell, best known as the birthplace of the famous Bakewell Pudding a delicious mistake made by a local cook in the 19th century. Enjoy time to explore the town’s quaint shops, riverside walks, and traditional markets. In the afternoon, we head to the magnificent Chatsworth House, the stately home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire. Our visit begins with a self-guided tour through the grand Painted Hall, impressive state rooms, and the remarkable Sculpture Gallery, all steeped in centuries of history and art.

Later, we rejoin the coach and return to the hotel, where a relaxing dinner awaits.

Day 3: Peak Rail Heritage Journey & Matlock After breakfast, board your coach as we travel to enjoy a nostalgic rail ride through Derbyshire’s countryside.  Begin your day with a comfortable coach transfer to Peak Rail, a lovingly restored heritage railway line that runs between Rowsley South and Matlock. Upon arrival, step aboard a vintage train and settle into the timeless elegance of steam or diesel-hauled travel. Relax and enjoy a scenic ride through the Derbyshire Dales, passing through woodland, riverside meadows, and the rolling countryside of the Peak District. The journey offers a unique glimpse into Britain’s rail heritage.

• Route: Rowsley South → Darley Dale → Matlock
• Duration: approx. 30 minutes (one way)

Disembark in Matlock, a historic spa town with Victorian charm and a riverside setting, here, you will have an opportunity to grab some lunch and some free time to explore the town. Take a stroll through Hall Leys Park, browse independent shops and cafés, or visit Matlock Bath or take a short walk along the river Derwent.  After a relaxing afternoon exploring Matlock, rejoin the coach for a scenic return journey to your hotel.

Day 4: Heritage Railway & Buxton – A Journey Through the Past and Peak District Beauty Today, we travel back in time with a classic heritage railway experience and explore the timeless charm of Buxton, one of England’s most beautiful spa towns. After breakfast (your Tour Manager will confirm departure time), board your coach for a scenic drive through Derbyshire to the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway in Wirksworth (subject to scheduling).

Step onto a lovingly restored vintage train and enjoy a 30–45 minute ride through the picturesque Derbyshire countryside. Pass rolling hills, stone cottages, and tranquil meadows as you take in the nostalgic atmosphere of heritage rail travel – powered by either a steam or vintage diesel locomotive.
There will be time to explore the heritage station, browse small museum exhibits, or relax with refreshments in the on-site café.

Following your rail journey, continue by coach to Buxton, famous for its natural thermal springs, elegant Georgian and Victorian buildings, and lush green spaces. You’ll have free time to discover the town at your own pace. Suggestions include: The Crescent – A recently restored Georgian architectural gem, Pavilion Gardens – 23 acres of landscaped gardens, lakes, and beautiful glasshouses, and Buxton Opera House – Admire the impressive exterior or stroll the charming streets filled with independent shops, tearooms, and cafés.

When hunger calls, dine at your leisure – whether it’s a cosy tearoom, stylish restaurant, or a casual bite at the Pavilion Gardens café. Late afternoon, rejoin your coach for a relaxed drive back through the Peak District National Park. Enjoy the scenic route as you pass dramatic hillsides and quaint countryside villages en-route to your hotel or departure point.Top of Form

Day 5: Departure – Homeward Bound After breakfast, check out of the hotel (your Tour Manager will confirm departure time) and board your coach for the return journey to Holyhead. En route, we’ll make a comfort stop to stretch your legs and grab refreshments. In the afternoon, board the ferry back to Dublin, where you’ll return to your original joining point, marking the end of your tour.

• Single Supplement Cost£140 per person