Five Free Things to Do in The Peak District Near The Maynard

If you’re looking for inexpensive activities to do in the Peak District, close to The Maynard, here’s our top picks;

Explore Froggart Edge

Super popular with walkers and rock climbers, the Froggart Edge walk is steep, rocky and boggy in the winter so not for the faint-hearted! The climb is worth it for the striking views that really do take your breath away.

Follow our White Edge and Froggart Edge walk here on the Longbow Short Walks Guide. It is an 11km walk of medium/difficult level.

Visit The Longshaw Estate

Managed by The National Trust, the Longshaw Estate is 1600 acres of heather-filled moors, ancient woodland and really beautiful views. It will certainly keep you busy as you explore this outstanding area of natural beauty. While entry to the grounds is free, parking charges do apply. 

There is a second-hand book shop on site, cafes, toilets and the area is dog-friendly.

There are regular family-friendly events run by The National Trust like Wednesday social walks and Nature Tots.

There’s a February half-term winter tree trail and family crafts coming up with a programme of family events planned for the whole of 2025. Click here to find out more.

Explore Padley Gorge

Padley Gorge is a beautiful and enchanting woodland valley in the Peak District, located near Grindleford and close to The Maynard.

Known for its atmospheric beauty, babbling brook, and ancient trees, it’s a popular destination for families, walkers, and nature enthusiasts. In the warmer months, children love splashing in the stream and finding rocks.

There are also the remains of the Padley Chapel, a 15th-century catholic chapel, close to the Padley Manor ruins.

There’s a 8km Padley Gorge walk from The Maynard which also takes in The Longshaw Estate here.

Accessibility for wheelchair users and pushchairs is difficult due to the terrain but paths at the nearby Longshaw Estate are good.

Visit the ‘Plague Village’ of Eyam

Located a 5-mile drive away from The Maynard, the historic village of Eyam is known for its self-imposed quarantine during the 1665 plague. It’s a fascinating mix of charming buildings and the centre of a unique and important time in English history.

Not technically free but still low cost, the Eyam Museum is worth a visit with admission from £3 for children and £4 for adults. Family tickets are priced at £11. 

The museum is recommended so you can understand the story of Eyam and then visit the famous church and plague cottages. 

Experience the Magic of Surprise View

Only 2 miles from The Maynard, Surprise View offers a striking vantage point near Hathersage, where breathtaking panoramas and sweeping Peak District scenery await.

From this stunning viewpoint, you can marvel at the Hope Valley, spot the rugged cliffs of Stanage Edge, and, on clear days, gaze towards Mam Tor and Lose Hill. To the north, the Derwent Valley reveals its reservoirs and woodlands stretching into the horizon.

This location is a paradise for photographers, capturing both vibrant sunsets and atmospheric mist rolling over the valleys below. It’s also an ideal spot for stargazing, thanks to the minimal light pollution – but do exercise caution when visiting at night. A head torch is recommended!

Surprise View is accessible via several walking routes or by parking in the designated pay-and-display car park (payment available via the RinGo app) off the A6187.

While the main viewing area is only a short distance from the car park, please note that the rocky terrain may not be suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that there are no public toilet facilities on-site.

Join Us at The Maynard

We have a number of walks close to The Maynard that you can explore using our guide here.

Why not pop in for a pint or a coffee after your walk?

We also showcase the best of Peak District produce with our award-winning menus. Join us for breakfast, lunch, dinner, afternoon tea and nibbles or why not stay in one of our individually designed hotel bedrooms and make the most of your stay?

Take advantage of 30% off our brand-new menu Monday to Friday when you dine between now and the end of February (excluding Valentine’s Day).

Or #enjoymore with our Sunday Stay Over offer and stay on a Sunday to get Sunday roast and breakfast for two from just £109.

Newsletter

Subscribe to keep up to date with our latest news, events and offers.

Tell us when your birthday is and we'll send you something special to celebrate