Welcome to Rivendale, a Camping, Caravan & Leisure Park situated in the heart of The Peak District National Park amidst some of it's most beautiful scenery. Where we are Rivendale lies in the heart of the White Peak, so-called because of the white limestone from which the dramatic cliffs, gorges and hills of this region of the Peak District National Park have been forged. Directions Proceed approximately 6 1/2 miles north of Ashbourne on the A515 (Buxton road). The site entrance lies on the RHS directly off the main road. The access road is a wide gentle incline. The Park comprises a level pitching area of approximately 11 acres sheltered by a crescent of limestone cliffs which face due south & form a natural sun-trap. A further 26 acres of mixed pasture and woodland provides habitat for wildlife with about half available for use by our guests. Park Amenities Showers and Toilets The stone-built amenity building has been designed for all-year luxury with computer-controlled under-floor central heating system, power showers, laundrette, pot-washing facility, disabled persons toilet and showers. With the exception of the laundry equipment, all facilities in the building are free of charge. Shop, Cafe, Lounge Bar & Games Room The handsome stone stable buildings have been skilfully converted into a shop, reception and licensed cafe on the ground floor, with a bar and games room at first floor level. Centrally-heated with blazing log fires in the winter and a sun terrace for the summer, guests are guaranteed a warm welcome at any time regardless of the season. Please note some facilities have limited opening hours depending upon the time of year. Play Area A junior adventure play area with swings, balance beam, burma bridge and other play equipment is near the amenity building. Wildlife & Walking Area The twenty six acres of mixed woodland and pasture outside the pitching area has benefited from environmentally-friendly management and provides a superb display of cowslips, orchids and other wild flowers - and the butterflies and insects that feed on them. The pond is home to dragon flies, Great Crested and Palmate Newts, wild fowl and other species. Certain areas are reserved for the badgers, foxes, bird-life etc that thrive in the wilder areas of the park, whilst the remainder is available for out guests and their pets to roam as they wish. We are delighted to have won a David Bellamy Gold award and are keen to co-operate with Wild Life groups to encourage the diversity of species. Pitching area The pitching area is subdivided into distinct areas separated by densely planted rockeries with a variety of surfaces available - hard-standing, hard-standing with grass, or all grass - most with 16 amp power-supplies, and mains water and sewage on selected pitches. Pitches (including some seasonal pitches) are available for caravans, motorised caravans, tents, trailer-tents and static caravans. Static Caravans Pitches suitable for vans from 28' - 40' long x 10-12' wide are available for holiday homes purchased on site with metered power supply, sewer and mains water supply. All pitches are demarcated with hedges and rockeries. Things to do On site The Prancing Pony pub offers a relaxed atmosphere in a superb old building and occasionally hosts a variety of events on specific days, including Halloween fancy dress parties, discos and quizzes - to suit all tastes. The location of the building (some 250 metres from the pitching area, separated by a 60' high embankment) ensures visitors who do not want to join in don't have to! In the area Walk directly from Rivendale on footpaths and bridleways into the Peak Districts most spectacular scenery including Dove Dale, Biggin Dale and Alsop Dale discovering picturesque villages, stately homes and fine pubs as you go. Cycle the High Peak, Manifold & Tissington Trails - the latter approx. 100 metres away - or enjoy trout fishing, bird-watching, sailing and watersports at nearby Carsington Water. Rainy days provide an opportunity to explore the myriad cultural and historic venues - from the magnificent stately homes at Chatsworth, Haddon, Kedleston, Hardwick Tissington etc to museums of all kinds, caravans, mines and even opera at Buxton Opera House. Thrill seekers are well-catered for at Alton Towers and Matlock Bath with golf, pony-trekking, ballooning, pot-holing etc available locally. Time your visit to coincide with the numerous local events and festivals such as well-dressings, steam fairs, jazz festivals, carnivals, The Game Fair and Flower Show at Chatworth - e-mail us for a list of events. |