Rainy days in the Peak District don’t have to be dull. The area offers many indoor attractions to keep visitors entertained when the weather turns gloomy. From historic houses to fascinating museums, there’s plenty to explore without getting wet.

Some top indoor spots in the Peak District include Chatsworth House, Peak District Mining Museum, and Haddon Hall. These places let guests step back in time and learn about the region’s rich history. Art lovers can view impressive collections, while history buffs can delve into the area’s mining past.
For those who don’t mind a bit of rain, the Peak District’s waterfalls become even more dramatic in wet weather. Kinder Downfall, the tallest waterfall in the area at 30 metres high, is a sight to behold on a rainy day. Visitors can also find cosy cafes and bookshops to relax in while waiting for the clouds to clear.
Exploring Indoor Attractions
The Peak District offers many indoor attractions for rainy days. Visitors can enjoy museums, historic houses, leisure centres, and more without worrying about the weather.
Museums and Galleries
The Peak District has several museums that showcase local history and culture. The Buxton Museum and Art Gallery displays artefacts from the area’s geological past. It also features art exhibits and interactive displays about the region’s heritage.
The Eyam Museum tells the story of the village’s brave response to the plague in 1665. Visitors can learn about this tragic yet inspiring chapter in local history.
For industrial history buffs, the Peak District Mining Museum in Matlock Bath offers insights into the area’s mining past. It has underground tours and hands-on exhibits.
Art lovers can visit the Chatsworth House gallery. It houses a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and other artworks spanning centuries.
Historic Houses and Castles
Chatsworth House is a grand stately home with lavish interiors and priceless art collections. Visitors can explore over 30 rooms, including the Painted Hall and the State Rooms.
Haddon Hall, near Bakewell, is a medieval manor house with Tudor and Elizabethan additions. It offers guided tours that bring its rich history to life.
Peveril Castle, in Castleton, is a Norman fortress with stunning views of the Hope Valley. Though partly ruined, its keep is well-preserved and worth exploring.
These historic sites provide shelter from the rain while offering glimpses into the Peak District’s past.
Leisure Centres and Swimming Pools
The Arc Leisure Centre in Matlock has a 50-metre swimming pool, gym, and sports halls. It’s ideal for families looking to stay active on rainy days.
Buxton Swimming and Fitness Centre offers a 25-metre pool and a teaching pool for younger swimmers. The centre also has a gym and fitness classes.
Hathersage Swimming Pool is a heated outdoor pool that’s open year-round. While not indoors, its warm water makes it enjoyable even in cooler weather.
These facilities provide options for exercise and fun, regardless of the weather outside.
Indoor Play Areas and Trampoline Parks
Little Monkeys Play Centre in Matlock is a popular spot for families with young children. It has a large soft play area, slides, and a separate toddler zone.
Peak Adventure in Rowsley offers a range of indoor activities. These include soft play areas, climbing walls, and a high ropes course.
Go Bounce Trampoline Park in Chesterfield provides wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, and dodge ball courts. It’s suitable for both children and adults.
These venues offer safe, fun environments for children to burn off energy on rainy days.
Retail Therapy at Local Shopping Centres
Springs Shopping Centre in Buxton houses a variety of shops under one roof. It’s a convenient place to browse and shop while staying dry.
Pavements Shopping Centre in Chesterfield offers a mix of high street brands and independent shops. Its indoor setting makes it ideal for rainy day shopping.
Vicar Lane Shopping Centre, also in Chesterfield, provides another option for shoppers. It features fashion retailers, cafes, and a cinema.
These centres allow visitors to enjoy some retail therapy without braving the elements.
Cinemas and Theatres
The Pavilion Arts Centre in Buxton hosts film screenings, plays, and live performances. It’s a cultural hub in the heart of the town.
The Pomegranate Theatre in Chesterfield stages a variety of productions, from drama to comedy. It also shows films on selected dates.
The Ritz Cinema in Belper is a charming independent cinema. It screens a mix of mainstream and arthouse films in a cosy setting.
These venues provide entertainment options for film buffs and theatre lovers alike.
Indoor Rock Climbing and Adventure Facilities
The Climbing Unit in Bamford offers indoor climbing for all skill levels. It has bouldering walls and roped climbing areas.
Awesome Walls in Sheffield, just outside the Peak District, is one of the UK’s largest climbing centres. It caters to beginners and experienced climbers.
The YHA Edale Activity Centre provides indoor climbing walls and other adventure activities. It’s a great option for groups and families.
These facilities offer thrilling indoor adventures, perfect for adrenaline seekers on rainy days.
Cosy Eateries and Coffee Shops
The Peak District offers many warm and inviting spots to escape the rain. From traditional pubs to quaint tea rooms and local restaurants, there’s no shortage of cosy places to relax and refuel.
Traditional Pubs with Roaring Fires
Peak District pubs provide the perfect shelter on a rainy day. The Old Nag’s Head in Edale welcomes hikers with its crackling fireplace and hearty meals. In Bakewell, The Red Lion serves local ales and classic pub grub in a 17th-century stone building.
The Packhorse Inn near Crowden boasts stunning views of the Longdendale Valley. Its log fire and rustic decor create a snug atmosphere for enjoying a pint.
For a taste of history, visit The Old Hall Hotel in Buxton. Dating back to 1573, it claims to be England’s oldest hotel and offers a cosy bar area.
Charming Tea Rooms and Cafés
The Peak District is home to many charming spots for a cuppa and cake. Edensor Tea Cottage near Bakewell serves homemade scones in a picturesque village setting. The Lime Lounge Coffee House in Bakewell offers a range of speciality coffees and light bites.
For a unique experience, try the High Peak Bookstore & Café near Buxton. Browse books while sipping tea in this converted barn. In Hathersage, Coleman’s Deli provides artisan sandwiches and locally roasted coffee.
The Café in the Park in Matlock Bath is ideal for families, with its play area and riverside location. On rainy days, enjoy views of the River Derwent from inside.
Restaurants with Local Cuisine
Sample Derbyshire’s culinary delights at The Merchant’s Yard in Tideswell. This restored 16th-century building serves modern British cuisine using local ingredients. In Baslow, Fischer’s at Baslow Hall offers fine dining in an elegant country house setting.
For hearty portions of traditional fare, try The Devonshire Arms at Beeley. This 18th-century inn sources produce from the Chatsworth Estate. In Eyam, The Coolstone restaurant combines rustic charm with contemporary dishes.
The Samuel Fox Country Inn in Bradwell presents upscale dining with panoramic views of the Hope Valley. Even on grey days, the landscape remains impressive through its large windows.
Wellness and Relaxation
The Peak District offers many options for relaxation on rainy days. From spa treatments to yoga classes and cosy bookshops, visitors can find peaceful spots to unwind.
Spa Days and Wellness Centres
The Peak District has several top-notch spas and wellness centres. Losehill House Spa is a popular choice, known for its relaxing treatments and peaceful setting.
The Wellness Brand offers yoga and pilates classes in a historic mill building. Their upstairs treatment space is praised for its calming atmosphere.
Many hotels in the area have on-site spas with pools, saunas, and treatment rooms. These make great rainy-day retreats for both guests and day visitors.
Yoga and Pilates Studios
Yoga and pilates studios can be found in towns across the Peak District. These offer a chance to stretch, breathe, and relax indoors when the weather is gloomy.
Some studios host drop-in classes ideal for visitors. Others run longer workshops or retreats for those seeking a more in-depth experience.
Many classes cater to all skill levels, from complete beginners to seasoned practitioners. Props and mats are often provided, making it easy for travellers to join in.
Bookshops and Libraries
The Peak District is home to charming independent bookshops perfect for browsing on rainy days. High Peak Bookstore near Buxton is a local favourite.
These shops often have cosy seating areas where visitors can settle in with a new book. Some also have on-site cafes, allowing for a full afternoon of reading and relaxation.
Local libraries offer a quiet space to read or work. Many have free wi-fi and comfortable seating areas. Some host events like book clubs or author talks, which can be a nice indoor activity on a wet day.
Cultural Experiences
The Peak District offers a variety of indoor cultural activities for rainy days. Visitors can explore art, music, and craft-making opportunities across the region.
Art Workshops and Craft Centres
Several art centres in the Peak District host workshops and exhibitions. The Buxton Museum and Art Gallery showcases local history and art. It offers hands-on activities for families on wet days.
The Pavilion Gardens in Buxton houses craft fairs and art shows throughout the year. Visitors can browse handmade goods and watch artisans at work.
For a creative day out, the Eyam Craft Centre provides pottery painting sessions. People of all ages can decorate mugs, plates, and figurines to take home as unique souvenirs.
Live Music Venues and Pubs
The Peak District’s pubs and music venues offer cosy spots to enjoy live performances on rainy evenings. The Barrel Inn in Bretton hosts folk music nights, featuring local talent.
In Bakewell, The Peacock pub puts on acoustic sessions and open mic nights. Visitors can sip local ales while listening to singers and musicians.
For classical music fans, the Buxton Opera House stages concerts and recitals. This beautiful Edwardian theatre provides a grand setting for cultural events.
Pottery and Craft Classes
Hands-on craft classes are popular rainy day activities in the Peak District. The Sticky Fingers Craft Studio in Matlock offers drop-in sessions for painting ceramics and making mosaics.
In Hathersage, the David Mellor Design Museum runs knife-making workshops. Participants can forge their own kitchen knife under expert guidance.
For pottery enthusiasts, Ingrid Karlsson Ceramic Design in Tideswell hosts wheel-throwing classes. Beginners can learn to make bowls and vases in a friendly studio setting.
Outdoor Options with Shelter
The Peak District offers several outdoor spots where you can stay dry on rainy days. These include covered markets, gardens with glasshouses, and farm shops with indoor areas.
Covered Markets and Bazaars
Bakewell’s Old Market Hall is a great place to visit when it’s raining. This Victorian building houses local crafts, gifts, and food stalls. You can browse handmade goods and taste local treats while staying dry.
Buxton Market also has covered areas where you can shop for fresh produce and artisan goods. The market runs on Tuesdays and Saturdays, offering a mix of indoor and outdoor stalls.
Chesterfield Market is another option. Its large indoor area lets you explore without worrying about the weather. You’ll find everything from fresh food to clothing and household items.
Gardens with Glasshouses
The Pavilion Gardens in Buxton has a lovely conservatory filled with exotic plants. It’s warm and dry inside, making it perfect for rainy days. You can admire the flowers and greenery while staying out of the wet.
Chatsworth House’s garden has several glasshouses to explore. The main conservatory is home to tropical plants and flowers. There’s also a smaller glasshouse with rare and delicate plants.
Haddon Hall near Bakewell has a charming glasshouse in its gardens. Though small, it offers a cosy spot to admire plants and escape the rain.
Farm Shops with Indoor Tasting Areas
Chatsworth Estate Farm Shop has a large indoor area where you can sample local products. You can try cheeses, meats, and baked goods while staying dry. There’s also a café if you want to sit and enjoy a meal.
Tissington Hall Farm Shop offers indoor tastings of its famous ice cream. You can try different flavours and watch the ice cream being made through viewing windows.
Hartington Creamery has an indoor shop where you can taste its famous Stilton cheese. You can learn about the cheese-making process and buy some to take home, all while staying out of the rain.
Educational Activities
The Peak District offers engaging learning experiences for rainy days. Visitors can explore aquariums, animal farms, science centres, and planetariums to gain knowledge while staying dry.
Aquariums and Animal Farms
The Peak Wildlife Park near Leek is a great spot for animal lovers. It houses over 150 species of animals in walk-through enclosures. Visitors can see lemurs, penguins, and meerkats up close.
The Matlock Farm Park is another top choice. It has indoor barns where kids can pet rabbits and guinea pigs. The farm also offers tractor rides and a chance to feed larger animals like goats and sheep.
For fish enthusiasts, the Blue Planet Aquarium in nearby Cheshire is worth a visit. It boasts Europe’s largest collection of sharks and rays. The underwater tunnel lets visitors walk beneath swimming sea creatures.
Science Centres and Planetariums
The Magna Science Adventure Centre in Rotherham is a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s housed in a former steelworks and has over 100 hands-on exhibits. Visitors can learn about earth, air, fire, and water through interactive displays.
Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre in Cheshire is perfect for space lovers. It’s home to the massive Lovell Telescope. The centre has indoor exhibits on astronomy and the history of the telescope. There’s also a planetarium show that takes viewers on a journey through space.
The National Space Centre in Leicester is another top pick. It has six interactive galleries, the UK’s largest planetarium, and a 42m high rocket tower. Visitors can try out a space flight simulator and learn about life as an astronaut.
Transport Links and Accessibility
The Peak District offers various transport options for visitors, including those with mobility needs. Public buses connect many towns and villages in the area, making it easy to explore on rainy days.
Community Transport Schemes provide accessible services for elderly and disabled residents and visitors. These schemes use 16-seat vehicles that can accommodate wheelchairs. For example, Ashbourne’s service can be reached at 01335 300670.
Several attractions in the Peak District are wheelchair-friendly. Visitors can enjoy accessible walks, scenic viewpoints, and limestone valleys without worrying about mobility issues.
For those preferring public transport, buses like the Sheffield-Castleton (271, 272) and Sheffield-Buxton (65) routes stop at popular spots. These services allow easy access to sites like Longshaw Estate, where visitors can enjoy short walks even on wet days.
Some accommodations in the Peak District cater to accessibility needs. For instance, there are log cabins with stunning countryside views that offer features like hot tubs and saunas, perfect for relaxing on rainy days.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Peak District offers many options for rainy day activities. From indoor attractions to family-friendly spots, there’s something for everyone when the weather turns wet.
What are the top indoor attractions in the Peak District for a rainy day?
The Peak District boasts several excellent indoor attractions. Treak Cliff Cavern, a 300-year-old Blue John mine, offers self-guided tours. Peak Cavern provides an underground adventure. The Peak District Mining Museum in Matlock Bath teaches visitors about the area’s lead mining history.
Where can families with children visit in the Peak District on a wet day?
Families can enjoy indoor play areas and museums on rainy days. The High Peak Bookstore and Café near Buxton is a charming spot for browsing books and enjoying refreshments. Some country houses also welcome families, offering a glimpse into local history.
Which walks in the Peak District are best suited for rainy weather?
Some walks in the Peak District can be enjoyable even in wet weather. Kinder Downfall, the tallest waterfall in the area at 30 metres, becomes more dramatic after rainfall. Waterproof clothing and sturdy boots are essential for these walks.
Are there any free activities in the Peak District ideal for a day with rain?
Many outdoor activities in the Peak District are free, but may not be suitable in heavy rain. Some museums and visitor centres offer free entry or have minimal fees. Local libraries and community centres might also provide free indoor activities.
Can you recommend some rainy day activities in towns like Bakewell?
Bakewell and other Peak District towns have indoor attractions. Local museums, art galleries, and historical sites often provide shelter from the rain. Cosy cafes and tearooms are perfect for warming up with a hot drink and a slice of Bakewell pudding.
How often does it rain in the Peak District, and what should visitors expect?
The Peak District experiences varied weather throughout the year. Rain is common, especially in autumn and winter. Visitors should pack waterproof clothing and plan for both indoor and outdoor activities. Weather can change quickly, so it’s wise to check forecasts regularly.