The May Bank Holiday is almost here, and if you’re joining us at Hope Valley Holidays, you’re perfectly placed to enjoy the very best of the Peak District. Located in the heart of Bamford, we are just a stone’s throw from some of the region’s most iconic attractions.
The best part? You can leave the car at the campsite! We have a bus stop just 100 meters from our entrance and two train stations within a mile, making it easy to explore without the hassle of parking.
Here is our guide to what’s happening locally this bank holiday weekend:
💦 Take a Dip or a Paddle
Whether you want a serious swim or just to cool off your toes, there are some fantastic spots nearby:
- Hathersage Pool: This famous open-air heated pool is a local favourite. Because it’s so popular, we highly recommend booking your slot in advance on their website.
- Wild Swimming: For a more natural experience, head to Slippery Stones in the Derwent Valley for a wild swim.
- Paddling: If you prefer to stay mostly dry, the Hathersage Stepping Stones are perfect for a gentle paddle.
🚲 Thrill-Seeking Adventures
If you’re looking to push yourself this weekend, our partners at Pure Outdoor are ready to help. They offer a huge range of guided activities, including mountain biking, caving, hiking, and route planning. Get in touch with their team to book your next adventure.
🚌 See the Sights (from the Top Deck!)
The new Peak Sightseer open-top bus tour is a fantastic way to see the valley. It runs daily and passes right by the site on its way to Castleton. It’s a hop-on, hop-off service, giving you the flexibility to explore beautiful local villages at your own pace. The bus conveniently stops at both Hope and Bamford train stations.
🎡 Festivals and Local Events
There is plenty of entertainment happening just a short distance away:
- Chatsworth Family Festival: A 30-minute scenic drive will take you to the stunning Chatsworth Estate. Their late May Bank Holiday Family Festival is famous for being a fun-packed day, with entertainment included in your Garden Access ticket.
- Hope Beer and Cider Festival: For a local favorite, head to the Old Hall pub in Hope. Running all weekend, you can expect live bands, great food, and a brilliant atmosphere. It’s an easy 30-minute walk from the campsite or a quick 5-minute ride on the 272 bus.
🧺 Picnic Spots & Local Pubs
Nothing says a camping holiday like a picnic in the hills. We recommend stopping by Watsons Farm Shop in Hope to pick up some delicious local treats. Some of our favourite nearby picnic spots include:
- Surprise View: Perfect for breathtaking vistas.
- Longshaw Estate: A beautiful National Trust site.
- Chatsworth: The grounds offer plenty of space to relax.
If you’d rather someone else did the cooking, our two neighboring pubs—Bike & Boot and The Traveller’s Rest—are both just a short walk away. Over the bank holiday, The Traveller’s Rest will also be showing live sport for those who don’t want to miss the big games.
🏕️ We’re Here to Help!
As always, the team at Hope Valley Holidays is on hand to help you plan your day and share our top tips for the area.
We wish you all a wonderful, adventure-filled Bank Holiday!
