Curriculum links
An exciting and dramatic Norman castle overlooking the Derbyshire countryside offers educational opportunities for school groups, particularly history from 1066, when the castle was founded.
- KS1 History: Significant historical events, people and places; study of castles
- KS1-3 History: A local history study
- KS2 History: A study of an aspect or theme in British history that extends pupils' chronological knowledge beyond 1066
- KS3 History: The development of Church, state and society in Medieval Britain 1066-1509
Free Self-led Visits
Mentioned in the Domesday survey, Peveril Castle is one of England's earliest Norman fortresses. The keep was built by Henry II in 1176. Displays in the visitor centre tell the story of Peveril as the administrative focus of the Royal Forest of the Peak, a royal hunting preserve since the 11th century. Climb the hill to visit the castle grounds, and explore the keep.
Enquire nowPlan Your Visit
We have a wide range of materials to support your visit and make school trip planning easy. You can find all our site-specific information and tools below, and further information on our what to expect page.
Download our free resources to help you make the most out of your visit and create unique learning experiences before, during and after your trip. We also offer free planning visits once you have made a booking, plus a 20% discount on the official English Heritage guidebook for your place of choice.
Once you book your visit you’ll be sent a visit permit, which you’ll need to bring with you on the day.
Visit our bookings page to start planning your trip!
Learning Resources
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Peveril Castle Teachers' Resource Pack (KS2-KS3)
Use the historical information and sources in this pack to learn more about Peveril Castle's story.
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Peveril Castle Timeline (KS2-KS3)
Chart the history of Peveril Castle with our timeline.
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Peveril Castle Teachers' Activity Ideas (KS2-KS3)
Our suggested activities support learning before, during and after your visit to Peveril Castle.
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Peveril Castle Activity Trail (KS3)
Explore the key features of Peveril Castle with our Activity Trail during your visit.
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Peveril Castle Activity Trail Teachers' Guide
Support students in their exploration of Peveril Castle using our Activity Trail Teachers' Guide.
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Teaching Anglo-Saxons and Normans
Use historical information, learning activities and tips from our historians, curators and educational experts to support your teaching of the Anglo-Saxons and Normans.
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A Brief History of the Normans
Learn more about the origins of the Normans, the dispute between Harold Godwinson and William the Conqueror and how the Normans took control of England in this short animation.
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A Mini Guide to Castles
Discover how castles developed over time with this short introduction.
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Enquire now
0370 333 0606
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Visit our bookings page to start your enquiry. All bookings must be made at least 14 days in advance. Please make sure you check our terms and conditions ahead of your visit.
If you’d like more information about a site or one of our workshops, get in touch using the online form on our bookings page to speak to your local Education Visits Officer. We look forward to seeing you soon.