Following the United States lead in setting aside land where flora and fauna could thrive without the risk of encroaching civilization, the peak district was protected by British law back in April of 1951. But if the future of the park presents an exciting prospect, it's the park's history that remains an archeologists dream.
Imagine nearly 600 square miles of open countryside. In prehistoric times, such a spread could only be considered a speck of the landscape, but for the peak district it was an area apparently worth cultivating. The cornerstones of 4 counties boast their origins in the peak district: Derbyshire, Yorkshire, Cheshire and Staffordshire, with a total population of nearly 40,000 individuals who live and work within the districts corners.
Long before horse and buggy were the mode of travel, Mesolithic hunter-gatherers fought a battle of survival within the peak district. Archeologists have discovered flint blades and other simple utensils in the extensive peak. Neolithic times saw early farmers try their hand at growing crops in the well-drained soil. And with the dawn of the Bronze Age, the most advanced race of people yet - called the 'Beaker' people - thrived. Not only hunting, but constructing a Stonehenge-like monument called the "Nine Ladies stone circle" where the Breaker tribe buried its death.
Fast forward to the Iron Age when settlers built imposing hill forts in the peak district. The Romans - extending the reach of their Empire well into Britain - found the peak district appealing as well. As did successive civilizations such as the Saxons, Danes and the Normans. Each left in the peak district an archeological treasure trove of reminders of their occupation. Leaving behind the remains of farms and villages that are still unearthed to this day.
What does all this history mean to the modern day traveler? The varied history of the peak district speaks of the history of the United Kingdom itself. The many tribes that have laid claim to the land are the foundation of the current melting pot culture. And now that large section of the peak district has been officially designated a Royal Forest, the area reaps the benefits of thousands of visitors and an even greater influx of dollars into the economy.
The district park remains unspoiled even though it co-exists with modern day society. Tourists can take advantage of a variety of peak district hotels. Each Inn or Bed and Breakfast ideal for creating the perfect peak district holiday. Like many parks of old, the peak district was originally an extensive area of land set aside for hunting by the king and his court. Those days are long gone, but a peak district holiday still has much to offer the seasoned or novice traveler.
You don't need to be an archeologist to appreciate the peak district. A brief stay in any of the local peak district hotels will allow you ample time to rest while you explore the district's past while enjoying the areas modern sights as well.