What does the name "Peak District" actually refer to?

The Peak District will host the world's most prestigious women's cycling race in 2027, as the Tour de France Femmes Grand Départ launches in the UK for the first time.

The opening stages will begin in Greater Manchester, with elite cyclists departing Manchester city centre and tackling the steep climbs of High Peak.

Stage Two promises a challenging route through the stunning Peak District National Park, already earning a reputation as one of the toughest starts in race history.

This international event is set to draw thousands of visitors, boost local businesses, and shine a global spotlight on the region's rugged beauty.

Exact roads are still to be confirmed, but the dramatic landscapes guarantee spectacular racing and worldwide TV coverage, making this a monumental moment for the Peak District community.

The historic Peaks and Dales railway revival moved a step closer this week as a comprehensive feasibility study was submitted to the Department for Transport.

The proposed 50-mile route would reconnect Manchester and Derby, passing through Chinley, Buxton, Bakewell, and Matlock, requiring just 11.5 miles of new track.

The study, reviewed by the Better Value Rail Working Group, found no major technical or environmental obstacles to reopening the line.

Severe congestion currently affects the Peak District, where 85% of its 13 to 26 million annual visitors arrive by car.

The new line could offer a high-capacity, low-carbon option, potentially cutting 4.3 million car journeys each year.

Economic projections suggest the railway could deliver up to £8 billion in local value by 2040, while enabling sustainable housing on brownfield land outside the park.

The project has strong political backing and now awaits the next approval stage.

The Peak District faces a dramatic shift as ash dieback disease threatens up to 90% of local ash trees within 15 years.

To combat this loss, the  Peak District National Park Foundation has launched a £20,000 appeal for a new tree nursery near Ashford-in-the-Water.

This nursery will nurture resilient native trees like oak, birch, and rowan under poly tunnels, preparing them for planting across the park to restore landscapes left barren by dying ash.

Felicity Stout, Woodlands Manager, highlighted the visible changes as many ash trees now stand dead or dying, but expressed excitement for the renewal effort and a more diverse future woodland.

Sustained by the River Wye, the nursery marks a strong, hopeful commitment to maintaining the unique natural character and ecological health of the High Peak for generations to come.

Buxton’s iconic Town Hall, a Grade II listed 19th-century landmark overlooking the Market Place, has officially been put up for sale by High Peak Borough Council.

The historic building has been deemed unsuitable for modern local government needs, prompting the council to seek a more efficient workspace as part of the Revitalising Buxton initiative.

While no asking price has been made public, any potential buyer must demonstrate clear plans to protect the Town Hall’s rich heritage and preserved features.

The council strongly emphasises the importance of responsible custodianship, insisting that future owners must maintain the building’s historic value sustainably.

The prospect of the sale has stirred intense local discussion, as many residents hope the site can be converted into a community hub or mixed-use venue, keeping public access to its cherished interior alive.

Torr Vale Tap in New Mills is a standout spot for locals seeking authentic High Peak character.

Set inside the historic, Grade II* listed Torr Vale Mill, this welcoming bar blends over 200 years of industrial heritage with a vibrant, community feel.

The outdoor terrace overlooks the River Goyt, providing gorgeous views after a stroll along the Millennium Walkway or through the Torrs gorge.

Dog lovers and walkers are made to feel at home - muddy boots and four-legged companions are always welcome.

The thoughtfully chosen drink selection features local craft beers from Torrside Brewing, perfectly paired with artisan cheese boxes from Cheese Wheel just next door.

Whether you fancy a quiet coffee, a post-hike pint, or an evening out with friends, Torr Vale Tap offers a unique High Peak experience in a landmark setting.

A small restaurant on Glossop High Street is making major waves in the local food scene.

Almanac, the brainchild of chef-owner Luke Payne, has received a coveted Michelin Bib Gourmand in the 2026 guide, the only Glossop eatery with the accolade.

Chef Payne, formerly of The Pack Horse in Hayfield, has created an intimate spot offering a cosy bar downstairs and a candlelit dining room above.

The menu is all about seasonal, small plates with a modern twist on British classics - think “Orbs of Joy” (slow-braised Roscoff onions) and mutton merguez.

Lunch plates come in under £10, and dishes change weekly to champion the best local produce.

Almanac’s win cements Glossop as a destination for those seeking exceptional food without city prices.

The name derives from the Pecsaetan, an Anglo-Saxon tribe meaning "Peak Dwellers" who settled the area in the 6th century.