A 2-night stay in the Peak District is the perfect way to experience scenic walks, charming villages, and great food without needing a full week away. Staying at Rock Mill Apartments in Stoney Middleton places you in the heart of the National Park, with easy access to Curbar Edge, Bakewell, Eyam, and the Monsal Trail, making it an ideal base for couples and small groups looking for a stylish and convenient Peak District escape.

Day 1: Arrival, Village Charm & Relaxed Dining

Arrive in Stoney Middleton and settle into your apartment. Spend your afternoon exploring the village or heading to nearby Eyam for a gentle walk.

In the evening, pop across to The Cupola Kitchen to enjoy a drink and some food, or stroll into the village of Stoney Middleton and enjoy a cosy pub dinner at the Moon Inn or relax in your apartment with a takeaway or private dining experience.

Relax in The Cupola next door to Rock Mill

Day 2: Iconic Walks, Views & Foodie Stops

Morning: Coffee & Peak District Views

Start your day slowly with coffee in your apartment before heading out for one of the area’s iconic walks. For those planning a big walk and need some fuel, definitely head to The Cupola for a breakfast.

Top nearby walking options:

  • Curbar Edge – sweeping views and dramatic gritstone edges
  • Froggatt Edge – quieter but equally beautiful
  • Monsal Trail – perfect for a flatter, scenic walk or cycle
Views across the Peak District from Curbar Edge

Lunch: Bakewell or Eyam

Head to Bakewell, just a short drive away, for lunch by the river. Browse independent shops, grab a famous Bakewell pudding, and enjoy the buzz of this classic Peak District town.

Alternatively, stay local and explore Eyam, rich in history and surrounded by beautiful walking routes. For those who like lunch with a view, you can walk from Eyam up to Sir William Hill trig point – steep but worth the effort, then follow the road along to The Barrel at Bretton, the highest pub in Derbyshire also some very tasty food options. If it’s sunny we highly recommend a pint and a portion of chips sitting outside admiring the incredible views.

View from the Barrel at Bretton (photo credit: The Barrel at Bretton)

Afternoon: Explore at Your Own Pace

Tailor the afternoon to your mood:

  • If you are heading back to Eyam after your walk to The Barrel, we recommend a stroll around the local shops and cafe’s in the village. Eyam Hall and Courtyard are a great spot to browse
  • Visit the royal residence of Chatsworth or channel your inner Jane Eyre at Haddon Hall
  • Or return to Rock Mill for a relaxed afternoon recharge and a stroll around the quaint village of Stoney Middleton

Evening: A Memorable Meal

For your second night, make it special:

  • Book a table at a standout local restaurant, we can recommend The Blind Bull in Little Hucklow for excellent gastro dining in a centuries old pub. The Ashford Arms in Ashford in the Water, an elegant restaurant in a beautiful village pub, and has dog friendly dining options. Or push the boat and head to Fischers at Baslow Hall for a fine dining tasting menu.
  • Don’t want to drive, no problem. Head to The Moon Inn in Stoney Middleton a 10 minute stroll down from Rock Mill and enjoy some lovely homemade pub grub. For the curry lovers, you must try Curry Cottage at Lovers Leap, which is just across the road from Rock Mill, or alternatively head to Cupola next door and sample their evening food offerings, the smash burgers and pizzas are excellent!
  • Or keep things simple with wine, good food, and a cosy night in, a quick trip to Whites at Calver (a Spa shop with a difference), here you can purchase lots of incredible locally produced food to take back and whip up a fabulous meal in your apartment.
  • And if all those options feel like too much, then just head to the famous Toll Bar Fish and Chip Shop, fans include Liam Gallagher (and his mum) and Tom Cruise, not to name drop too hard…expect big portions and some of the best fish and chips in Derbyshire.

Day 3: Slow Morning & Departure

Morning: Slow Start

There’s no rush. Enjoy a slow breakfast, take one last walk, or simply relax in your apartment before checking out.

Before You Leave…

If you have time, squeeze in:

  • A visit to Tideswell village to take in the breathtaking Cathedral, head to Tideswell Lounge for your morning coffee and pastries.
  • For those needing a Sunday Lunch head to The George in Tideswell or the Cow Shed in Millers Dale (the Sunday lunch carvery is excellent). Both are dog friendly too.
  • Or a scenic drive through the Peaks, Castleton and Winnats Pass, Mam Tor and Edale village, or Longnor and the Dragon’s Back are great for views in the car.
Parkhouse Hill also known as The Dragon’s back