Watery peak

 
Imagine walking along a Peak District coastline! About 350 million years ago tropical seas, shallow lagoons and vast reefs covered the Peak District. Today, we can still see how water helped shape our landscape.
 
Water has featured prominently in Peak District lives for thousands of years.
It powered the mills of the Industrial Revolution. It was used in lead mining, and for transporting goods on the area’s canal and river networks. 
 
From the region’s unique custom of well dressing, to the popularity of our spa towns, Buxton, Matlock and Ashbourne, water has always been important. Today the region’s rivers and reservoirs offer fabulous leisure opportunities.
 
Wherever you go in the Peak District, water has had an impact. Explore the area and see for yourself.