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.
Blue John Cavern has a long narrow staircase down, returning by the same route, with a slightly larger area in the middle where the two tour groups in the Cavern will pass each other.
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.
THE OPEN TOP DOUBLE DECKER BUS - PEAK SIGHTSEER Leave the car here in Castleton and be driven! There are two open top buses that travel from Castleton to Chatsworth via Longshaw, and Chatsworth to Bakewell. The buses run every hour - the nearest stop is by the Information Centre. For one fare you use both buses all day. Click here for Peak Sightseer website
FURTHER AFIELD Hathersage Pool is an outdoor pool and has reopened. Again you need to pre-book. Click here for Hathersage Pool website
Chatsworth House. The formal garden and larger grounds have reopened. The house is due to reopen on May 18th. The website gives many more details. Do not travel there without pre-booking. Click here for Chatsworth House website
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Haddon Hall