Ilam Park: 2026 Guided Walks: Literary Legends of the White Peak

Think of the rolling hills and grand houses of the White Peak and you'll soon think of Jane Austen, and her magnificent novel Pride and Prejudice. But did you know that, alongside Austen, many more of the greatest writers in British history have visited and been inspired by the landscape of the White Peak? From Wordsworth and Byron, to Bram Stoker and Arthur Conan-Doyle. Join walk leader Luke from Peakrill walks in a tour across the beautiful White Peak and through the pages of these many books set here. We'll set off from Ilam Park and explore the hills and valleys, hearing about Jane Austen's connections to Derbyshire, her visit to Dovedale, and the way the Peak District has featured in other works of great literature over the centuries.

The walk will be approximately 5.5 miles with plenty of stops to talk about the literature.

We grade our guided walks A, B or C depending on how challenging the walk will be. This walk is graded B - a medium walk with some hilly terrain. Voucher is included for 10% off at Ilam Tea Room and free car parking redeemable on the day of the walk. This event, like all our events is open to members of the National Trust and non-members. Money raised goes back into looking after the White Peak.