Peveril Castle

Castle · Bakewell, England

Peveril Castle

Ruins of a Norman castle on a cliff above the village of Castleton, with a tower from the 1170s and views over the Hope Valley. It is about 20 km from Bakewell.

Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.

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About Peveril Castle

Peveril Castle stands on a limestone cliff above Castleton, in the northern Peak District. It was founded soon after the Norman conquest of 1066 by William Peverel, one of William the Conqueror’s knights, to control the area and its lead mines.

The best-preserved part is the keep, built in the 1170s by order of King Henry II. Around it are stretches of the curtain wall and the foundations of other buildings. The castle is managed by English Heritage and has a small visitor centre at the entrance.

The climb is short but steep, and from the top you can see Castleton, the Hope Valley and the hill Mam Tor. In the village and nearby there are caves open to visitors, including Peak Cavern, just below the castle.

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Before you go

Practical information

Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.

How much time to set aside

About an hour to the castle; longer if you add one of the caves.

Best time

On clear days, for the view. The castle is usually open daily in summer and on fewer days in winter; check before you go.

How to get there

It is in Castleton, about 20 km north of Bakewell. There are regional buses and parking in the village; the entrance climbs up from the square.

Tip

Wear sturdy footwear for the climb and reserve the afternoon for one of Castleton’s caves.

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Get your questions answered

Frequently asked questions about Peveril Castle

Who built Peveril Castle?

William Peverel, a Norman knight, soon after 1066. The tower that still stands was built in the 1170s by order of Henry II.

What else is there to see in Castleton?

The caves open to visitors, such as Peak Cavern just below the castle, and the hill Mam Tor, which overlooks the valley.

How far is Bakewell from Castleton?

About 20 km to the north. There are regional buses and parking in the village.

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