Always a warm welcome From humble beginnings in the local pub, to bustling centres that now welcome hundreds of thousands of people each year, our visitor centres have long been the first port of call for intrepid Peak District explorers. Liam Benson discovers what makes them special.
F
rom far-and-wide or just down the road, the Peak District has been a destination of choice for over a hundred years. Since the early 1950s, our National Park visitor centres have been adapting to increasing numbers of visitors and their desire to learn more about this inspiring place; secured for the nation by those who had the early vision of what a national park could be.
Whether you know our centres well, or have yet to step inside for a friendly welcome, they have undergone great change to ensure the very best visitor experience for everyone.
Bakewell
The former Old Market Hall and 17th century Grade II listed building is at the heart of this bustling and picturesque town
on the banks of the River Wye. Formerly a market hall, courtroom, butchers, library and even a chip shop, it is easy to see how the open space and expansive arches reveal clues to its varied and remarkable past. Celebrating its own 50th anniversary as a visitor centre, it remains a hub of information on the doorstep of the local community.
Timeline of our visitor centres over the years... 1954
Edale visitor centre starts life as a volunteer-ran service in the Old Nag’s Head Inn in the village.
1971
Cas tleton
1950s
1960s 1966
Fieldhead visitor centre in Edale officially opens.
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www.peakdistrict.gov.uk
1967
Original premises are acquired for Castleton visitor centre on Castle Street with temporary display – max capacity just 6-8 people!
1969
Castleton visitor centre is refreshed and modernised and officially opens to the public.
Bakewell visitor centre opens in the Old Market Hall in the town.
Fieldhead
1970s
1980s 1980
Fieldhead visitor centre houses the ranger briefing centre and often helps with Mountain Rescue call outs. Interpretation is installed to reflect the role the centre plays in mountain safety.
1982
Derwent visitor centre opened as part of recognised development work to conserve the character of the area and improve the facilities for visitors.
1986
Ranger briefing centre is introduced at Derwent visitor centre.
