School’s out and we’ve finally hit the road. This past term has been non-stop — busy as ever, and made even more so by Keefy’s scheduled operation and the recovery time that followed. But with the hospital’s green light, we were more than ready for a change of scene and wasted no time in getting on the road.
Our goal this summer is simple: spend as much of it as possible in Gandalf the VW camper. The first two weeks are lightly planned — including, hopefully, a bucket list tick — but after that we’ve got a glorious 3–4 weeks of total freedom, with no route other than following the sun.
We’re heading north first, and our first stop is.. the Peak District.
It’s a favourite of ours — peaceful, great walking, and always helps us slow down and reset.
This time, we based ourselves at Tideslow Farm on, a Certified Location about 1.5 miles outside Tideswell and 5 miles from Castleton. It’s basic, with just a water tap and a chemical loo disposal point, but at £12 per night and with total peace and quiet, it was exactly what we were after.
Day 1 – Arrival & a Local Walk
After arriving and settling in, we headed out on a short evening walk — just a mile each way — to the local pub, The Anchor Inn at Tideswell. We were welcomed warmly, and the sausage and mash was delicious. A lovely start to the trip and a chance to breathe out after a hectic few weeks.
Day 2 – Moorland Walk to Castleton
Our first full day, and we had a lay in. After a proper chill (didn’t get up until 11am!), we had a lazy brunch in Gandalf and eventually pulled on our walking boots. We set off across the moor, picking up the Limestone Way — a long-distance path that runs from Castleton to Rocester — and followed it towards Castleton.
The highlight was the descent through Cave Dale. The trail underfoot was a bit tricky in parts, but the views more than made up for it — dramatic limestone cliffs, rolling green slopes, and that satisfying sense of stepping into a hidden valley. It really is one of the Peak District’s gems. Walk route Here
Once in Castleton, we stopped for a well-earned pint, then hopped on the Peak District tourist explorer bus followed by a local service to get us back to our starting point. Naturally, we ended up back at the pub for another drink before walking back to camp.
Dinner was a relaxed BBQ back at the van — cooler weather than the last month or so (thank goodness) but still bright, and very welcome after seeing the washout forecasts back home!
We spent the evening reading and just enjoying the utter peace and quiet. We adore being off grid and running off battery and solar and we are already feeling like we’re chilling right out.
Day 3- time to leave The Peak District but not before another quick adventure up Mam Tor.
We had a slow morning as we packed up camp, then set off on a short journey toward Mam Tor, just outside the village of Castleton. The drive took us through Winnats Pass — a dramatic, narrow route that winds its way between towering limestone cliffs. With its steep sides and twisting turns, it felt more like a mountain pass than a country road, and I was completely in my element behind the wheel.
We parked at the National Trust car park near the base of Mam Tor and set off on a scenic 3-mile circular walk. The route took us up to the summit and along a stretch of the Great Ridge. We were incredibly lucky with the weather — the views were stunning, even if we had to share them with a few too many others!
Mam Tor, often referred to as the “Shivering Mountain,” rises to 517 metres and commands breathtaking views over the Hope Valley and Edale. Its name comes from the frequent landslides caused by unstable shale on its slopes, which have created a distinctive landscape of mini-hills beneath it. Rich in both geological interest and history, Mam Tor is one of the Peak District’s most beloved and recognisable landmarks — a perfect reward for such a manageable climb.
After lunch back at Gandalf, it was time to turn the wheels north. Next stop is to see some friends in Preston for the evening- but we managed a quick look around Rufford Old Hall National Trust on route! This 16th-century timber-framed manor, features a great hall with an intricately carved hammerbeam roof, and beautiful gardens perfect for a peaceful stroll. It is said that Shakespeare performed here in his youth.
It’s been the perfect start to our summer roadtrip and already we can feel ourselves relaxing. We’re looking forward to a catch up with our friends and then it’s time to head further north for a very very exciting 10 days of adventure!
Stay tuned!
Until next time
Lx
