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I visited picturesque village filled with pubs and must-visit coffee shop perfect for walkers

Camping in this quaint village was a true hiker's paradise, with eight pubs within walking distance and a cute coffee shop selling delicious baked goods

[I visited charming village with 8 pubs and must-visit coffee shop with unmatched views]

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It made for a perfect beer-filled weekend (Image: Emily Malia / ReachPLC)

For those wanting a weekend away that requires minimal planning and very low effort, this picturesque village in the heart of the Peak District is the perfect base for exploring the National Park.

As I drove into the village, I passed through one of the most iconic roads in all of Derbyshire, Winnats Pass, a steep valley where sheep walk along the tarmac and vibrant green covers the hillsides. This spectacular view is just minutes away from a town filled with pubs and cafes, which acts as a wonderful starting point for hikes and bike rides.

Castleton is a much-loved tourist destination for campers, hikers, cyclists and, of course, pub-goers keen to experience rural life without all the hassle. It felt to me like a village with enough going on that you can keep yourself occupied, while being tucked away enough that you really feel like you're in a world of your own.

Surrounding it are spectacular views of the Peak District, and field upon field filled with sheep and cows. Most notably visible from various points around the area is Mam Tor, a 517-metre-high hill that makes for a popular hiking trail with expansive 360 views over Edale Valley to Kinder Scout and the Derwent Moors.

I took on a long trail directly from the village up to the very top, which, despite its popularity, proved to be a steep hike that had its challenges. Or maybe that was because I did it in 30-degree heat, which even with my constant layering of suncream couldn't save me from.

[I visited charming village with 8 pubs and must-visit coffee shop with unmatched views]

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Mam Tor is on the village's doorstep (Image: Emily Malia / ReachPLC)

Pubs

While Castleton is made up of quintessentially English stone buildings and is overlooked by Peveril Castle, perched high above, it's the high concentration of pubs that continues to draw people in or at least was the call for our pilgrimage.

There are eight pubs in total, all within walking distance, mostly along one short road that runs through the entire village Castleton Road.

When I entered the pubs, for the most part, I was met with exactly what you'd expect from a traditional English boozer. Low-beamed ceilings, hearty food, and a lot of pensioners. Some of them had live music throughout the weekend, and many of them also double as bed-and-breakfasts.

My favourite was The Peak Hotel, as it had the best atmosphere throughout the weekend. Some of my friends got chatting with the landlord, who seemed friendly and happy to continuously serve a copious amount of Aperol and Hugo spritz to the group.

[I visited charming village with 8 pubs and must-visit coffee shop with unmatched views]

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I opted for Prosecco and Aperol Spritz over beer(Image: Emily Malia / ReachPLC)

It also had a modest beer garden outside, but the eclectic feel indoors was what made it so welcoming. The walls were lined with antique mirrors and signs that he explained were sourced from various vintage markets, warehouses and online.

Alongside it was Ye Olde Nags Head, which was an ideal spot to fill up on decent pub grub and included huge stone-baked pizzas that went down a treat with our group of hungry campers.

The other pub stops included Bulls Head, The Castle, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese Inn, The George, The Swiss Tap and the Peak District's Eccentric Alehouse.

Coffee Shop

In the heart of the village, tucked away amongst its numerous pubs and shops, is the small but mighty Castleton Coffee Co. While the village has a number of cozy cafes, I felt this was a modern take, appealing to a younger crowd of hikers and coffee snobs like us.

Something you'd expect to see in a North London neighbourhood, the tiny space sees an impressive level of food and sweet treats. From sandwiches with what looks like sourdough bread, home-baked sausage rolls and cheese and onion rolls, cakes, cookies and my ultimate morning craving acai bowls.

Despite their modest size, they pack a big punch, with a bench wrapping around the entire outside of their little box for perching with a drink. Inside, there's also a row of stools spanning the back wall for people to sit in. Although, the real purpose, I assume, is to grab and go on your adventures.

Inside, they also sell a wide range of merchandise, from tote bags to mugs and reusable cups, as well as locally sourced goods such as jars of flavored peanut butter.

There's nothing I love more than uncovering a new coffee shop on my UK travels, and I was glad to finally have this one ticked off of my list.

There's so much more to Castleton than its food and drink offering, but it is a must-visit destination for foodies, even if you don't venture out into the National Park itself. Although the real beauty lies within its various valleys and hilltops, and there are so many popular walking routes that begin in and around the village, making it a perfect pit stop or weekend hub.

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