Goosehill Hall Holiday Cottages Handbook
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Local Attractions
Castleton has five local attractions - four caverns and a castle. Further afield there are more famous historic buildings, many interesting towns and, of course, lots of places for walking.
There is information online and you can also find details at the Peak Park Information Centre and shop, by the roundabout on Buxton Road. In addition to knowledgeable staff they have information leaflets, maps and walking guides. The maps and guides can also be bought in local shops.
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THE CAVERNS​... celebrating Castleton's heritage in lead mining and the unique stone, Blue John.
Treak Cliff Cavern Treak Cliff cavern has recently reinvented itself. It now provides self guided tours using the latest technology - bluetooth beacons providing commentary via app on your phone. A separate self guided tour for each family group. This cavern probably has the best display of Blue John stone in situ and Blue John craftsmen work on site. Trip Advisor reviewers approve of the new arrangements.
(A guest review - "Treak cliff cavern is a great experience and the current blue John stone polishing experience is great for children; ours are 8 and 10, and some adults may well enjoy it too.")
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You must book in advance - although there are usually some slots available on the day. Goosehill Hall Holiday Cottages guests get 20% discount by booking online and quoting GHHC at checkout.
Peak Cavern This was once used for rope making and was home to the last troglodytes in the UK. Now it doubles as a concert hall as well as an impressively large cavern.
Speedwell Cavern This is the one with the boat. Follow in the steps of the old lead miners.
THE CASTLE Peveril Castle, dating back to Norman times, is run by English Heritage. There is 25% discount to cottage guests - ask John or Helen for a voucher.
FURTHER AFIELD
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EXPLORE THE PEAK DISTRICT BY BUS
There are now a number of bus service to and from Castleton, all with glorious views. Maybe walk one way and use the bus on the other. Detailed timings are posted at the bus station or can be found via the Castleton page of bustimes.org. (You can also use the website to track where your bus is, in real time!)
THE OPEN TOP DOUBLE DECKER BUS - PEAK SIGHTSEER
Leave the car here in Castleton and be driven! There are two open top bus routes. One is from Mam Tor, down Winnats Pass and through Castleton all the way to Chatsworth via Longshaw. The other route is from Chatsworth to Bakewell. The buses run every half hour during the summer season - the nearest stops are by the Information Centre. For one fare you use both buses all day. There are very good rates for groups travelling together. Click here for Peak Sightseer website
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65 - Castleton to Buxton via Edale Three return trips a day - in between a shuttle from Castleton to Edale and back.
173 - Castleton to Bakewell via Tideswell every other hour
272 - Castleton to Sheffield Hourly, via Surprise View and Fox House ( Longshaw)
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Hathersage Pool is an outdoor pool and has reopened. Again you need to pre-book. Click here for Hathersage Pool website
Chatsworth House. The house, formal garden and larger grounds are famous. The farmyard is good for young children and the extensive adventure beyond has play kit for children of all ages including teens. The website gives many more details.
It is always cheaper to book online and in advance. Another option is to travel on the Peak Sightseer bus. You will save on the cost of parking at Chatsworth. Click here for Chatsworth House website
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Haddon Hall Much older than Chatsworth and very well preserved. Click here for the Haddon Hall website