The Farmhouse

Haddon Hall - With over 900 years of history, Haddon is brimming with history and stories of old. Haddon is one of the most significant and oldest heritage destinations in the country, also featuring a lovely restaurant serving locally sourced food and a gift shop full of exclusive souvenirs.

Calke Abbey - Visit the beautiful yet faded walled gardens of Calke Abbey in addition to the orangery, auricula theatre and the kitchen gardens. Here the past is remarkably well preserved with vast collections of personal belongings left as they were.

Eyam Hall - Originally built as a wedding present by Thomas Wright in 1672, this beautiful Jacobean Manor House has been lived in ever since by the family. Situated in the famous 'plague' village of Eyam, you can take a tour around the house and gardens. The real treat here is the courtyard made up of old farm buildings where you can browse the fascinating shops and eat at the beautiful Coolstone restaurant, built in the old stables.

Sudbury Hall - Home to the National Trusts Museum of Childhood, this 17th Century house is home to lavish interiors and is the historic country home of the Vernon family. At the Museum of Childhood, try your hand as a chimney sweep, a scullion or a Victorian school pupil and be captivated by the archive film and interactive displays.

Bolsover Castle - Originally designed to entertain and impress, its reputation for revelry lives on as English Heritage bring a range of entertainment for you and your family. Wander the lavish rooms of the Little Castle, explore the romantic ruined terrace range, and delight in the views from their wall walk.

Kedleston Hall - A short 15-minute drive from Knockerdown, Kedleston Hall is another jewel in The National Trusts crown. The Neo-classical mansion designed for lavish entertaining and displaying an extensive collection of paintings, sculpture, and original furnishings. Lord Curzon's Eastern Museum is a treasure trove of fascinating objects acquired on his travels in Asia during his Viceroyship of India.

Peveril Castle - Peveril Castle stands high above the pretty village of Castleton in the heart of the Peak District and is one of England's earliest Norman fortresses as mentioned in the Domesday survey. A climb of the castle at the top of the hill to enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views over the Hope Valley is a highlight of a family day out in Castleton. Interactive displays in the visitor centre tell the story of Peveril as the administrative focus of the Royal Forest of the Peak, a royal hunting preserve since the 11th century.

Ilam - A pretty litle village sitting on the Staffordshire / Derbyshire border and is a short drive from Knockerdown Cottages. Pronounced eye-lamb, Ilam Village is unusual in styles as you won't find traditional stone cottages here but rather chalet type cottages. The village is nestled besides the Manifold River and is surrounded by imposing hills Bunster and Thorpe Cloud with lots of independent shops and eateries to visit.

Crich - Home to the National Tramway Museum there is a wealth of things to see and do, making it a great location for a family day out. Ride around on the beautifully restored trams, stepping back in time down the recreated period street. Many if the buildings along the street have been rescued from towns and cities across the UK, and there is even a pub and shops to visit along the way.

Tissington - Arguably one of the most picturesque villages in Derbyshire and famed for being the birth place of the ancient tradition of Well Dressing, which welcomes thousands of visitors each May to experience this ancient tradition as it dresses the six wells in the village with elaborate displays made from natural materials to honour God for the gift of water. 

Beeley, Pilsley & Edensor - The Chatsworth Villages are a must if you have plans to visit the house. Beeley lies at the foot of the moor of the same name boasting panoramic views of the River Derwent, Lindop Wood, and Stanton Moor. Pilsley is another pretty Chatsworth village and is just a mile from the "Big House". Occupied by many estate workers at Chatsworth, the mellow gritstone cottages have some very attractive well-kept gardens. Edensor (also known as 'Enza' to the locals) features an array of traditional house designs from mock Tudor to Swiss cottage. Chatsworth House is a brisk wall over the hill.

Monsal Head, Monsal Dale & Cressbrook - Monsal Head & Dale is one of the most famous and photographed viewpoints in Derbyshire. Cressbrook sits at the far end of Monsal Dale in an elevated position. This is a secretive sort of village rising up the steep sides of the dale above the River Wye. The village grew around its' cotton mill and the imposing Cressbrook Hall is gloriously set above the dale with beautiful vistas down the Wye valley.

Peak Wildlife Park - An animal lovers paradise with a whole host of animals ready to meet you and your family. Just a short drive away from Knockerdown and set in the Staffordshire Moorlands, be ready to meet penguins, lemurs, zebras, otters, pigs, goats, and wallabies to name a few.

Matlock Farm Park - With a plethora of lovely animals to meet, feed, and cuddle, Matlock Farm Park is farmyard fun for all ages, all year round, in the fresh air and tranquillity of the countryside!

Go Ape - This leafy course based in Buxton is beautiful in all seasons - a lush green tunnel high up in the treetops. Perfect for adventurers, this is one of the highest Go Ape courses in the UK featuring one of their biggest Tarzan Swings. They have added a host of zip wires meaning there's an exhilarating extended course with its own tree-to-tree section to fly through.

Crich Tramway Village -  Containing over 60 (mainly British) built between 1873 and 1982 and is set within a recreated period village with a working pub, café, old-style sweetshop and tram depots. A great day out with the kids, you can stroll the streets of the period village, ride on the trams, visit the pub and shops and take in the history of trams in the great exhibition hall.

Denby Pottery Village - Named after the village of Denby in Derbyshire, Denby Pottery primarily sells hand-crafted stoneware tableware, kitchenware, and serve ware products including dinner sets, mugs, and serving dishes in addition to a variety of glassware products and cast-iron cookware. The Pottery Village is a great place for shoppers to explore and with a factory shop, cook shop and garden stall on site in addition to pottery throwing classes, craft studio and experiences, a museum, factory tours, and children's parties.

Poole's Cavern & Country Park - The ancient natural limestone cavern and country park woodlands are found on the outskirts of the historic Spa town of Buxton in the High Peak of Derbyshire. Explore the cavern (renowned as the finest underground scenery in the UK) with expert guides and take a stroll around the huge park, or lunch in the café, which serves great food and coffee. 

The Knockerdown Inn - Set on the beautiful Carsington Water and serving a selection of local food and drink. We've set up a secret gate on site to access the pub due to it being next door. The pub is very dog friendly with a large beer garden, children's play area, campsite, and a large restaurant with views over Carsington Water. Please note they close early on a Monday and Tuesday, so please check to avoid disappointment.

The Royal Oak at Hurdlow - Warm welcome awaits you at The Royal Oak in Hurdlow. This cosy country pub is popular with locals and visitors alike. You can expect roaring fires in the winter, alfresco dining in the summer, hearty pub food made with locally sourced ingredients, real ales, and fine wines. The perfect spot for a breakfast, lunch or dinner whilst your tour of the Southern Peak District.

The Cock Inn at Mugginton - Another pub with lots of history, originally called The Cock Horse Inn (hence the horse on the sign and not a cockerel!) this cosy pub has refurbished with a modern and bright restaurant extension at the back which is perfect for a celebratory meal with family and friends. Or enjoy a grazing platter in the cosy bar area which keeps much of its original charm. They have a great vegan and gluten free menu available too.

The George at Alstonefield - More of a restaurant than a pub, the George is an award-winning family run pub in the Peak District village of Alstonefield. Arguably one of the best pubs in Derbyshire, head there to enjoy their well-kept real ales, carefully selected wine list and exceptional food; a standard recognised in The Good Food Guide since 2009; Michelin and Sawdays - to name a few.

Ye Olde Gate Inn - Located in Brassington and named Britain's cosiest pub by The Times, the Ye Olde Gate Inn offers real ales and gastro food is on offer here and booking ahead is advised as its popular with locals and visitors alike.

Ashford Arms - Located in the beautiful village of Ashford in the Water, the Ashford Arms is always a firm favourite in the Peak District and has been lovingly renovated to offer seasonal menus for lunch & evenings, children, breakfasts and afternoon teas. Or just call in for a drink if you're in the local area. Dogs are welcome at the pub that is open everyday from 8am.

The Sour Cow in Wirksworth - Based on the marketplace, the Sour Cow in Wirksworth serves lovely fresh food including English & American breakfasts, desserts, waffles, takeaway bento boxes for lunch and frozen yogurt.

Yondermann Cafe - A bustling Peak District Cafe, located in Wardlow Mires, Buxton, specialising in breakfast, lunches, homemade cakes, and freshly brewed coffee from Buxton Roastery, additionally serving beers and local ales, wines, and soft drinks.

Hartington Farm Shop and Cafe in Hartington - Situated in the pretty village of Hartington, this farm shop & café serves breakfast, lunch, snacks & delicious homemade cakes. They also sell gifts & fresh local produce so it's a great place to pop into for some souvenirs as well as a pot of tea and a slice of cake!

Herberts Fine English Tea Rooms in Tissington - The perfect place to stop for refreshments after exploring the lovely village of Tissington. Serving a selection of teas, coffees, light lunches, cakes and of course afternoon tea complete with homemade scones.

Cafe Impromptu in Ashbourne - One of the best cafés in Ashbourne, Cafe Impromptu offer a wide range of homemade food, with barista style coffee, and is perfectly located in the heart of this charming market town. Definitely one not to miss.

Cafe in the Park, Matlock - This delightful little café is situated in the heart of the Hall Leys Park in Matlock. The menu is packed, from hot jacket potatoes, wraps, with a filled salad, a selection of hot and cold drinks and a breakfast menu available until 11.30 am. They have indoor and outdoor seating and host bistro nights too.

Lamplight Restaurant  in Ashbourne - Situated in the centre of the historic market town of Ashbourne and family run, the Lamplight was originally built back in 1493. It now serves as a British/French restaurant with a great seasonal menu. Pop in for lunch or book for dinner. It can also be hired for a private function seating up to 50 guests.

Arthurs Restaurant in Belper - A cosy 24-seater bistro located on Campbell Street in Belper. The menu showcases the best of Derbyshire produce in a classic al a carte format, focusing on seasonal food, wild British game (when in season and available) and nose-to-tail cooking practices.

Fischer's at Baslow - Derbyshire's only Michelin starred restaurant offers a dining experience unrivalled in personal service, luxurious attention to detail and brilliant, imaginative modern British food at its inventive, eclectic best. Booking is essential to be guaranteed a table and avoid disappointment.

The Peacock at Rowsley - Offers both an indulgent, fine dining menu and a more relaxed bar menu to suit most tastes or moods. The key behind each dish served at The Peacock is seasonal, quality ingredients sourced as locally as possible. Serving lunch and dinners every day, they also offer a tasting menu on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Maazi at Matlock - Maazi's have been serving amazing Indian food for many years and is arguably one of the best Indians in the country. Eat in or takeaway available with a sister restaurant in Hathersage.

Mainsail Restaurant at Carsington Water - A short walk away from your stay at Knockerdown is the Mainsail restaurant where you can enjoy stunning views of the water whilst you dine on locally produced and homemade food. Serves breakfast, lunch and dinner with a daily specials board. 

Ashbourne - 10 minute drive

Red Chilli Indian Takeaway & Restaurant - Authentic Indian cuisine open for dining in or takeaway, priding themselves on picking high quality ingredients making use of fresh produce.

The Basement Thai - Serves authentic Thai dishes with a scent of sweet & spice flavours, located in the centre of Ashbourne.

Golden Hill Chinese - Traditional Chinese takeaway in Ashbourne.

Dalo's Pizza & Kebab Takeaway - Traditional Pizza & Kebab house with a diverse menu of delicious food options in Ashbourne.

Wirksworth - 10 minute drive

Wirksworth Balti - Creating top quality takeaway curries, burgers, pizzas & kebabs.

Birds Nest Chinese - No website, please contact 01629 760 111 for orders.

Wirksworth Fish Bar - Traditional Fish & Chips shop located in Wirksworth.

Matlock Bath - 15 minute drive

China Rose Chinese Takeaway & Restaurant - Traditional Chinese cuisine.

The Balti Indian Takeaway & Restaurant - Traditional Indian cuisine.

Matlock - 20 minute drive

Maazi - Traditional Indian cuisine with tiffin boxes available for day lunches.

Bellini Pizzeria - Serves Kebab's, wraps, burgers, pizzas and much more.

The Shalimar Tandoori Cuisine - Traditional Indian cuisine.

Thailand No 1 - Traditional Thai food.

Abseiling - If you have a head for heights then Abseiling is a popular activity for the whole family and there are a couple of great sites in the Peak District including Millers Dale where you descend 80ft of Millers Dale Bridge or Black Rocks near Cromford. There are loads of multi adventure groups in the Peak District but we recommend Peak Outdoor Training, Dolomite Training and Gritstone Adventures.

Caves & Caving - Great activity for kids and when the weather does not cooperate for outdoor activities where you can also learn about these truly amazing natural features. 

Poole Cavern - If you fancy yourself as a bit of an explorer, you could also visit the adjacent Poole's Cavern, a 2-million-year-old, natural limestone cave.

Blue John Cavern - World famous and located in Castleton, it is home to 8 of 14 known varieties of Blue John Stone, a beautiful and ornamental flur-spar.

Speedwell Cavern - Take an amazing boat trip 450m under the hills of Castleton to the awesome Bottomless Pit.

Peak Cavern - Also known as the 'Devils Arse', this is a great cave also doubling as a music venue and cinema.

Dolomite Training - The Dolomite team can take you beyond the usual show caves for a more exciting caving trip including underground abseils and climbs.

Climbing - There are lots of experienced climbing instructors out there so why not discover the unique geology of the Peak District, perfect for climbers with unusual named sites such as Flying Buttress, Christmas Crack, Medusa, and Mad Dogs & Englishmen. We recommend Peak Outdoor Training and Dolomite Training.

Water Sports:

White Water Rafting, Tandem Orca Kayaking and Tubing through Darley Dale, Matlock on the River Derwent which flows through the beautiful Peak District National Park.

Canoeing, Sailing and Windsurfing at Carsington Water - Open all year round, a short walk from your stay at Knockerdown and is a hive of activity. There is also a lovely restaurant cafe, shops and a great playground for children.

Tittesworth Water - The water sports and activity centre at Tittesworth Water is one of the largest independent activity centres in Staffordshire, based near Leek.

Rudyard Lake - Managed by the Canals & Rovers Trust and situated near Leek is a real hidden treasure with rowing, sailing, trip boats and fishing all available on the waters.

Multi Activity Days:

Clear Sky Events - Activity experts in tailored events including team away days, navigation events, corporate activity team building and more.

Peak Outdoor Training - Specialists in a range of adventurous events including rock climbing, raft buildings, road cycling, and fun navigation events to name a few.

Demon Wheelers - The team have a great range of experience in organising many different events ranging from team building to family fun days.

Dandelion Events - Offering a range of team building events for corporate parties and outdoor activities including archery, laser clay pigeon shooting, quad bikes and more.

Wild Park Derbyshire

Wild Park Derbyshire is an outdoor activity centre located just a 20-minute drive away from your stay at Knockerdown. They have numerous activities to keep you entertained for a memorable day out including Paintballing, Quad Biking, Laser Tag, Crossbow Shooting and Pistol Shooting.

Don't worry if you get wet and dirty, there are changing rooms with hot showers so you can get clean before getting back into the car for either your journey back or going on to somewhere else.