The Peak District village that looks like it's straight out of Lord of the Rings

The beautiful village offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life - it's easy to see why it could be mistaken for Hobbiton

Everyone needs a break from the city's hustle and bustle at some point. Nestled in the heart of the Peak District is the historic and quintessentially British village of Castleton, surrounded by steep hills (including the famous Mam Tor) at the head of the Hope Valley - it could easily be mistaken for Hobbiton.

The history of Castleton dates back to 1086, as recorded in the Domesday Book, albeit under the name Pechesers, which literally translates to Peaks A*** (bottom). It was later renamed Castleton following the construction of Peveril Castle, built by William Peveril, the illegitimate son of William the Conqueror.

This picturesque village is ideally located for long walks around the valley's striking hills, exploring its Norman roots, and visiting one of Tripadvisor's most loved pubs of 2021. Ye Olde Nags Head has been around since the 17th century, originally serving as a coaching inn, according to MyLondon.

Today, Ye Olde Nags Head offers everything from pub classics like beef, ale and potato pie, to an extensive list of burgers, pizzas, and daily specials, including their bangers and mash. It also provides accommodation for visitors wishing to stay overnight after a long day exploring the valley, with nine ensuite bedrooms available.

Ye Olde Nags Head in Castleton was recognised with Tripadvisor's Travellers' Choice Award back in 2021, drawing rave reviews from patrons. One delighted visitor commented: "We stayed in the Inn for 3 nights. The rooms were comfortable, the food delicious and the staff very friendly and accommodating. Would definitely recommend," reports the Manchester Evening News.

Another guest remarked: "Welcoming staff. Good choice of beer for husband. Food was very, very good. Overall good value for money. We would return." But there's more to Castleton than just its warm hospitality. History buffs can explore the village's past at the dramatic Peveril Castle ruins, perched above the village.

For those who love the great outdoors, the Mam Tor walk to Losehill – locally dubbed the 'Shivering Mountain' – offers breathtaking views, while Winnats Pass provides a landscape that could be straight out of Lord of the Rings. Legend has it that Winnats Pass was formed by an underwater reef in an ancient lagoon, though its true origins are shrouded in mystery.

Adventure-seekers will find plenty to do with Castleton's renowned cave systems, where they can unearth the semi-precious Blue John stone found only here. Guided tours are available through Treak Cliff Cavern, Speedwell Cavern, Peak Cavern, and Blue John Cavern, each with unique features to entice explorers.

The Blue John stone is particularly associated with Treak Cliff and Blue John Caverns, while Speedwell Cavern is famed for its deep vertical shaft known as the "Bottomless Pit".