The Peak District is a geological wonderland that us lucky folk living nearby often take for granted. Full of wonderful wildlife, striking geology and amazing architecture, the Peak District is a place to behold in person that you simply must visit many times to truly appreciate. Whether you’re an avid walker, a lover of animals or an activity sports enthusiast, there’s much to see, do and enjoy in the area.

This wondrous national park is one of many reasons to be proud of Derbyshire and the wider East Midlands region, of which KLG Rutland has been a part for over half a century. As a local company full of local people passionate about the local area, not least the Peak District, we want to encourage more people to the area. To help with this aim, we have taken a deep dive into the geological brilliance of the Peaks that make the area what it is today. From towering limestone cliffs to hidden caves and dramatic valleys, there’s many breath-taking sights to add to your bucket list.

Geology of The Peak District

The striking nature of the Peak District is formed by four key geological features – limestone plateaus, glacial valleys, caves and fault lines. The limestone plateaus have been created over millions of years due to the erosion and have given the area the precious natural resource of limestone. This has been mined over the years, leaving large quarries. The plateaus themselves are part of the reason for the steep cliffs, hidden valleys and dramatic caves that encourage so many tourists to flock to the area.

Further dramatic landscapes can be found in the form of deep valleys, carved out during the last Ice Age, millions of years before humans set foot in the area. These valleys have created the rivers, streams and creaks that add to the landscape and bring more wildlife to the park. Popular valleys that you must visit in the Peaks include Derwent Valley and Hope Valley, both of which offer excellent views and walks.

Beneath the surface, the Peak District is perhaps even more dramatic. Huge cave systems extend throughout the area, thanks largely to the relatively soft nature of limestone. This underground network of wonder created by limestone formations includes famous and popular caves like Speedwell Cavern, Castleton Caves and the Blue John Cavern where the rare Blue John mineral is found.

The final significant geology of the Peak District is the fault lines which criss-cross the area. The fault lines shift over a long period of time, crashing into one another to create mountains and separating to create valleys. The Great Rift Valley is perhaps the most visited of these fault-formed areas, towards the southern end of the region.

Must-See Peak District Sights

The aforementioned geological marvel of the Peak District has led to many of the most popular Peak District attractions to be formed. These natural sights bring flocks of tourists to the area every year and are some of our favourite places to visit on a weekend. Let’s discuss some of the best things to do and see in the Peak District.

For hikers, ramblers, climbers, explorers and walkers, the Peaks are heaven. Take Kinder Scout for example, the highest point in the area, offering stunning views thanks to the unique limestone plateau of which it sits atop. Then there’s Mam Tor in Hope Valley, another high peak formed over millions of years which offers views over the stunning glacial valley. Not far away are the Castleton Caves, where you can head underground and see for yourself what incredible caverns a combination of limestone, water, pressure and time can create. Inside The Peak Cavern you’ll find the largest underground waterfall in England.

Other popular Peak District valleys include The Goyt Valley, The Manifold Valley, The Derwent Valley and The Great Rift Valley, all of which are a haven for picturesque walking. Goyt offers a reservoir and nature reserve to explore, Manifold offers some stunning limestone cliffs around the River Manifold, Derwent is home to the Derwent Valley Mills and The Great Rift features the popular Tissington Trail.

We’d also recommend places like The Roaches for any climbers after a more challenging route in the area and Ladybower Reservoir for those into sailing and fishing. If ancient archeology is more your thing, why not visit Cresswell Crags, where you’ll be able to view the largest collection of Ice Age art in the country. And for keen cyclists wanting a route in the area, try Monsal Dale, where a disused railway line named the Monsal Trail can be enjoyed.

All in all, the Peak District is a hive of activity and places to see. You can go hiking, caving, rock climbing and fossil hunting all within the confines of this glorious National Park, all available to us thanks to its unique geology. Whether you’re a geology enthusiast, an outdoor adventurer or simply looking for a beautiful place to relax, the Peak District has something to offer everyone.


If you’re living in the Peak District or wider Derbyshire area and you’re looking for a home improvement partner, KLG Rutland is the perfect place for you. Operating from our Derbyshire showroom, we offer high-quality glazing products like new windows and stunning conservatories, plus a selection of secure exterior doors. For more information, contact our friendly and local team.