Exclusive Venue Hire in the Heart of the Peak District
Events at Darwin Lake
Set within 20 acres of private woodland and beside a tranquil lake, Darwin Lake offers a truly unique location for corporate events, team retreats, celebrations and group gatherings.
Whether you’re hosting a company away day, a weekend retreat, a charity fundraiser or a private celebration, our exclusive-use village gives you the space, flexibility and privacy to create a memorable experience from start to finish.
Darwin Lake is more than a venue — it’s a complete destination, with on-site accommodation, event halls, breakout areas, and outdoor activities all in one stunning lakeside setting.
Inspire, Motivate & Connect
Corporate & Business Events
Our venue is ideal for organisations looking to strengthen teams, spark creativity or simply escape the office.
We work with companies of all sizes to deliver tailored corporate retreats, meetings and team-building days that blend professionalism with the natural beauty of the Peak District.
- Meeting & Conference Facilities – Multiple spaces with full AV setup, Wi-Fi, and flexible seating layouts.
- Team-Building Activities – In partnership with Peak Adventures, enjoy on-site kayaking, climbing, archery, bushcraft, raft building, and more.
- Workshops & Breakouts – Indoor and outdoor spaces ideal for strategy sessions, training or wellness activities.
- Catering Options – From business breakfasts and working lunches to private dining and evening buffets.
- Accommodation for Teams – 17 luxury cottages sleeping up to 130 guests, ideal for overnight retreats or multi-day events.
We held our annual company retreat at Darwin Lake — stunning location, great facilities and so many options for activities. The whole team loved it.
– Corporate Guest, 2025
Celebrate in Style
Private & Group Events
Darwin Lake’s peaceful and flexible setting also makes it perfect for private celebrations, charity events, reunions, and social gatherings.
- Exclusive Venue Hire – Enjoy complete privacy with full access to the grounds, cottages, and event spaces.
- Celebrations & Milestones – Birthdays, anniversaries, family reunions, and festive gatherings in a beautiful countryside setting.
- Charity Events & Fundraisers – Use our hall and outdoor areas for gala evenings, auctions or community activities.
- Filming & Photography Hire – Our lake, cottages and woodland provide a stunning backdrop for creative projects.
- On-Site Accommodation – Stay together with friends, family or colleagues in comfort and style.
Whether it’s a weekend celebration or a one-day event, our team will help you design a schedule that fits your vision perfectly.
Let’s help you plan your next event at Darwin Lake.
Team-Building & Outdoor Adventures
Through our dedicated Peak Adventures programme, you can add adrenaline, fun and collaboration to any event.
Our qualified instructors deliver a full range of on-site and off-site activities, including:
- Kayaking, Canoeing & Paddle boarding
- Climbing Wall & Zip Wire
- Archery & Axe Throwing
- Bushcraft & Survival Skills
- Problem-Solving & Leadership Challenges
- Mountain Walking & Gorge Scrambling
These activities are ideal for corporate groups, schools, or any team looking to bond, learn and have fun in a safe, guided environment.
Facilities &
Accommodation
Everything you need for your event is right here on site:
- The Darwin Hall – Fully equipped indoor event space for up to 150 guests
- Lakeside Grounds & Outdoor Areas – Perfect for activities, receptions or social gatherings
- Cottages & Lodges – 17 four-star properties sleeping up to 130 guests
- Private Parking – Secure, on-site spaces for all attendees
- Flexible Catering – From informal buffets to formal dining and BBQs
- Audio-Visual Support – Screen, projector and sound system available on request
Our estate layout makes it easy to blend business with leisure — with nature trails, open lawns and the lake just steps from your accommodation or meeting space.
Sample Event Ideas
To spark inspiration, here are just a few ways clients use our venue:
- 2-day corporate retreat with accommodation and team-building
- Full-day leadership or training workshop with catering
- Weekend reunion or birthday celebration with exclusive hire
- Charity gala or awards evening in The Hall
- Yoga and wellness retreat with outdoor activities
- Private film or photography shoot across the estate
Every event is customised by our experienced coordination team to suit your goals, guest list and schedule.
Celebrate in Style
Why Choose Darwin Lake for Your Event
- Exclusive-use estate for total privacy
- Flexible indoor and outdoor event spaces
- On-site accommodation for up to 130 guests
- 20 acres of woodland and lakefront grounds
- Adventure and team-building activities on site
- Dedicated event coordinators for smooth planning
- Central Peak District location near Matlock and Bakewell
- Ample parking and easy access from Sheffield, Derby & Nottingham
The setting is incredible — you feel like you’ve escaped to your own private village. Everything we needed was in one place.
– Group Organiser, 2025
Start planning your bespoke event at Darwin Lake today.
Plan Your Event
Our team is here to help you create an unforgettable event — from team retreats and corporate away days to charity galas and private celebrations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I hire Darwin Lake exclusively for my event?
Yes — exclusive hire gives you and your guests private access to the venue, accommodation and grounds.
What is the capacity for events?
The Hall accommodates up to 150 guests indoors, with flexible outdoor areas for larger gatherings.
Is on-site accommodation included?
We offer 17 cottages sleeping up to 130 guests. Accommodation can be included or booked separately depending on your package.
Do you provide catering?
Yes — we can arrange full catering from local partners or you can bring your own approved caterer.
Are the facilities suitable for business meetings and conferences?
Yes — The Hall offers audio-visual setup, Wi-Fi, and configurable layouts for presentations or training sessions.
Can we organise team-building activities during our stay?
Absolutely — through Peak Adventures, we offer kayaking, archery, climbing, bushcraft and more.
Is the venue accessible?
Yes — key facilities and cottages are accessible, and we can provide parking close to your event space.
How do we book or arrange a viewing?
Contact our events team by phone or email to arrange a personal tour and discuss your requirements.
Can we use the venue for filming or photography?
Yes — Darwin Lake regularly hosts filming projects, photoshoots and creative events by prior arrangement.
Where is Darwin Lake located?
We’re in Darley Moor near Matlock, just off the B5057. Free parking is available for all guests.