MANCHESTER TO HOLMFIRTH
Escape the city and drive east on the A628 towards Denby Dale, through the epic scenery at the northern end of the Peak District. You’ll see reservoirs lined by forest in the Longdendale Valley, pretty hamlets and the Pennine Hills, before heading to Roydhouse, where the Three Acres Inn makes a perfect spot for lunch. Pile your plate high with oysters and native lobster at the seafood bar while enjoying glorious countryside views.
Route highlight
Yorkshire Sculpture Park, a 200-hectare outdoor gallery 15 minutes’ drive from Roydhouse, is dotted with dramatic pieces by worldrenowned artists, including Damien Hirst, Andy Goldsworthy and Barbara Hepworth. Spend an afternoon looking at the works of art and snapping selfies (#culture), then treat yourself to a coffee and cake in the café.
Eat & sleep
When you’ve had your fill of sculpture, it’s time to hit the road again and make your way to The Pickled Pheasant, a gorgeous gastropub with rooms (from £90 per night; Thepickledpheasant.com) near Holmfirth, a 20-minute drive away. Boasting traditional features (think oak beams and open fireplaces) mixed with modern touches like dark blue walls and pendant lamps, this is the kind of country pub you wish was your local. Dishes on the menu include Thai marinated red mullet, pan-roast duck breast and a chocolate orange brownie. Each of the four beautiful bedrooms has a unique design, but all are high-end, with king-size beds swathed in luxurious Egyptian linen and Temple Spa toiletries. ›