The Castle RollsA list of every visitable castle in the United Kingdom

Peveril Castle

Derbyshire, England

4.4 / 5 · 1,654 Google reviews


Peveril Castle
Peveril Castle, further view Peveril Castle, further view

Key facts

Operator
English Heritage
Condition
Partial ruin
Access
Staffed, ticketed
Entry pass
English Heritage Overseas Visitor Pass
Nearest station
Hope (Derbyshire), 2.0 miles (straight-line)

Pinpoint

Market Pl, Castleton, Hope Valley S33 8WQ

Telephone 0370 333 1181

Possible Opening Hours*

*Opening times change. Always check the official website before you travel.

Monday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Visitor essentials

Access
Benches are provided along the steep climb for resting.
Facilities
Visitor centre on site with a model of the castle at its peak.

A Norman castle above Castleton, built for William Peveril and famous enough by the 19th century to lend its name to a Walter Scott novel. The keep still stands, reached by a genuinely steep climb, and reviewers consistently say the views over the Peak District from the top justify the effort.

Who to know

William Peveril · the Norman lord the castle was built for

Worth the trip

The view from the keep across the Peak District - reviewers describe it as breathtaking, and the climb makes the payoff feel earned.

Before you go

There's no parking on site, so you'll need to park in Castleton and walk up; the path is steep with deep, uneven steps in places, so pace yourself and bring proper footwear.

WHAT VISITORS SAY · 4.4 / 5 across 1,654 Google reviews

Every review mentions that the climb up to Peveril Castle is steep and challenging, though most agree the panoramic Peak District views from the top make it worthwhile. One older visitor found the climb genuinely difficult despite the benches provided and felt there wasn't quite enough to see for the effort, while others found the keep and information boards added good historical context.

“Steep walk up and obviously it’s just a ruin now but if you like history & views you’ll love this place. Take a picnic. Lovely grounds”- Michele Rowlands, visitor review

Practical notes from visitors

Quoted from individual Google reviews, not verified with the operator - treat as a steer, not gospel, and check before you travel.

Parking
“No parking lot available on the site, you need to park in the town.” - Fitria Putri
Terrain & accessibility
“The path up is quite steep, but once you reach the top the views across the Peak District are absolutely breathtaking.” - Przemyslaw Kowalski
Facilities
“Take your picnic with you then enjoy the view comfortably at the castle ground.” - Fitria Putri

Common questions about Peveril Castle

Where is Peveril Castle?

Peveril Castle is in Derbyshire, England, at Market Pl, Castleton, Hope Valley S33 8WQ.

Do you need a ticket to visit Peveril Castle?

Yes - Peveril Castle is a staffed, ticketed attraction run by English Heritage. Ticket prices and opening hours change through the year, so check the official site before travelling.

What is the highlight of visiting Peveril Castle?

The view from the keep across the Peak District - reviewers describe it as breathtaking, and the climb makes the payoff feel earned.

Is Peveril Castle a ruin or still intact?

Peveril Castle is a partial ruin.