We’ve just come back from the most gorgeous, last-minute family camping weekend in the Peak District, warm June weather, big skies, and that “why don’t we do this more often?” feeling.

We booked it about a week in advance, threw our trusty Decathlon tent in the car, and headed up after work on Friday. We’re based in Norfolk, so it felt like a proper mini adventure, and it turned into one of those weekends you want to bottle up.

Where we stayed: Greenhills Holiday Park (just outside Bakewell)

We camped at Greenhills Holiday Park, just outside Bakewell, on an electric pitch. It cost £107 for two nights.

What we loved:

• Really great facilities (clean toilets and warm showers — always a win when you’re camping)

• A fab bar on site

• Food trucks each night (Saturday night was pies — so good)- Do check what is available as this is not all season and usually only at the weekend.

What we didn’t realise (and wish we had):

• No open fires (this is a Peak District-wide requirement). We brought our little fire stove and couldn’t use it, so it’s worth checking restrictions before you pack.

Our 2-night Peak District itinerary (with kids aged 10 and 14)

If you’re after a simple, doable plan for a weekend near Bakewell, this is exactly what we did.

Day 1 (Friday): Drive up + sunset at the campsite

We left Norfolk at 4pm and arrived in the Peaks at about 8:30pm. We stopped on the way to eat and charge our new all-electric car (I could honestly write a whole separate post about that too!).

Once we arrived:

• Put the tent up (the classic “let’s do this quickly before it gets dark” energy)

• Went for a drink

• Watched the most gorgeous sunset over the hills

• Slept like absolute logs

Day 2 (Saturday): Lud’s Church + The Roaches, then Bakewell

This was our big hiking day and it was so worth it.

Parking for Lud’s Church (Gradbach tip)

We arrived at 9:30am. The main Gradbach car park was already full, but local farmers open adjacent fields for parking when it’s busy. We paid £5 to park.

If you want to park at Gradbach itself, my biggest tip is: arrive very early.

Lud’s Church (otherworldly and breathtaking)

Lud’s Church genuinely felt like stepping into another world.

The walk in is a lovely mix of woodland and uphill sections, and it stays shaded for much of this part — which was a blessing in the June warmth.

Then you reach it… and suddenly you’re in this moss-filled chasm that feels almost unreal. It was absolutely breathtaking, and I already want to go back.

Continuing on to The Roaches

After Lud’s Church, we continued the hike along The Roaches.

This section is more open (so it can feel warmer and more exposed), and there are a few parts that involve a bit of a scramble.

All in, the Lud’s Church + Roaches hike took us around 3 hours.

Afternoon in Bakewell

After the hike we headed into Bakewell for a wander.

We:

• Explored the shops (there are loads!)

• Grabbed a fabulous iced coffee

Then it was back to the campsite for the perfect camping dinner:

• Pie and chips

• A pint

• Bed (very happily!)

Day 3 (Sunday): Castleton + Mam Tor ridge loop

On Sunday we drove to Castleton and did the Mam Tor ridge loop.

Parking

We parked at the main car park near the visitor centre.

The walk (steep, warm, and magical)

This hike was FAB — but it was very warm, and there are steep parts, so it’s one where you really want to be prepared.

It took us around 3.5 hours.

The highlight (besides the views) was watching paragliders sailing above us, which made the whole thing feel even more magical.

Top tip: bring plenty of water (more than you think you’ll need).

After the walk we headed home at about 3pm.

Quick tips for a family camping weekend in the Peak District

A few things I’d do again (and a few I’d do differently!):

• Check Peak District fire restrictions before you pack (no open fires)

• Arrive early for Gradbach if Lud’s Church is on your list

• Bring plenty of water for Mam Tor, especially in warm weather

• Expect some scrambling on The Roaches (good shoes help)

• If you’re travelling after work, plan a simple first night: set up, sunset, sleep

FAQ

Is Lud’s Church suitable for kids?

Yes — we did it with a 10 and 14 year old and they loved it. Just take care with footing, especially as you approach the chasm.

How long is the Lud’s Church + The Roaches hike?

Our walk took around 3 hours in total.

Where do you park for Lud’s Church?

The main car park is at Gradbach, but it fills up quickly. When it’s busy, local farmers open adjacent fields for paid parking (we paid £5).

How long is the Mam Tor ridge loop from Castleton?

Ours took around 3.5 hours, and it’s steep in parts.

Can you have an open fire when camping in the Peak District?

Not where we stayed — it’s a Peak District-wide requirement in many areas. We weren’t allowed any open fires, so it’s worth checking before you go.

Final thoughts

This weekend was such a reminder that you don’t need loads of planning for a brilliant family break — sometimes a last-minute booking, a tent, and a few Peak District walks are all you need.

If you’ve done Lud’s Church, The Roaches, or Mam Tor, I’d love to know: what’s your top tip (or favourite route)?

K Elizabeth xoxox