Hope Cross Stables is a fully accessible holiday cottage with luscious views of the verdant countryside over to Miller’s Dale in the heart of the High Peak. Specifically designed to enable a family to get away together with one member who has reduced mobility, our single-storey stable conversion provides a relaxing and serene getaway for four and is fully wheelchair friendly.
The property benefits from a generous open plan living space comprising a lounge area with a comfy three seat sofa and riser recliner, a dining zone, and fully equipped kitchen area. The large sliding living room doors lead onto a flat barbecue terrace with 360 access and amazing views over the rolling Derbyshire hills.
Hope Cross Stables has two en suite bedrooms. The king-size bedroom has an en suite shower room, while the twin room features a profiling and electric tilting bed, a mobile hoist and emergency fire door system for maximum safety. Its large adjacent wet room has an accessible height toilet, grab rails, non-slip floor, wheelchair accessible basin and shower with fixed and handheld heads as well as a self-propelling shower chair.
Underfloor heating throughout the cottage is another touch of luxury and is zoned with independent controls for each room.
One of four stunning barn conversions at Vicarage Farm, Hope Cross Stables stands alone opposite our other three holiday cottages. There is level access to these cottages, plus laundry and further shared facilities across the road. These include an all-weather tennis court, well-established children’s playground and communal outdoor gazebo with barbecue terrace. Complete with twinkling fairy lights and an under cover open log fire, this facility is magical for group evening celebrations!
You can book some or all of the cottages across the road if you wish to holiday as a group of up to 22 guests. Up to 13 can dine together at The Piggery and you can all share the communal facilities, while allowing for a quiet space to retreat when needed. The options are: The Piggery (sleeps 7+1); The Cow Shed (sleeps 5) and The Hay Loft (sleeps 4+1). The central location is ideal for those meeting up from different parts of the UK with easily accessible transport routes from the north and south.
Hope Cross Stables at Vicarage Farm provides a peaceful refuge in the heart of the Peak District National Park and you would be hard pressed to find a more idyllic and serene location. Ideally located in the ancient farming hamlet of Wheston, the ancient farmstead is set in six acres of tranquil grounds and was historically a church farm that provided produce for the Tideswell parish.
Locally, all you would ever want is on the doorstep at Tideswell, two kilometres distant - from an artisanal butcher, bakers and ice cream parlour to a plethora of restaurants, pubs and cafes. Tideswell is one of the most ancient settlements in the central Peak District and is famous for its most remarkable 14th century church, known as "The Cathedral of the Peak", with its regular concerts from local groups. The village is also noted for its well dressing, carnival wakes and the Tideswell Food Festival every year in May, with demonstrations, stalls, and entertainment.
Positioned close to other popular towns of the Peaks, Hope Cross Stables makes an ideal base for discovering the splendour of the Peak National Park.
The property borders an array of well-known walking, cycling and hiking trails. Notably, the property leads directly onto the Pennine Bridleway, one of the first and longest trails in England. There is direct access to Limestone Way, Monsal Trail and many circular routes one can explore.
The spa town of Buxton is a short drive away and definitely worth a look at its Georgian and Victorian architecture nestled in between independent shops and cafes. Pop into Poole's Cavern and Buxton Country Park while you are there and book in a 45 minute journey through underground passages. Wheelchair users can access the main chamber of the cave which is 100 metres/300ft long unassisted.
Just a stone’s throw from the vibrant market towns of Matlock and Bakewell, Peak Village offers a quality shopping experience with easy access for all. Here national named retailers mingle with unique independent shops so you’ll find great value and choice in fashion, outdoor gear, homeware and gifts. The car park, shops, restaurant and toilets all offer level access with open courtyards in between. Parking is free and there’s designated disabled parking, with a handy customer drop off point at the entrance. Free wheelchairs are also available for use on-site and you can request one from any retailer.
Take a vintage tram ride through Crich Tramway Village, home of the National Tramway Museum, and marvel at the period street, before exploring fascinating exhibitions and relaxing in the Red Lion Pub or cosy tearooms. The nostalgic cobbled street will make you feel as though you’re stepping back in time, but there’s also a 'smoothway' providing a smoother alternative to the cobbles for wheelchairs and buggies. All buildings have lifts and ramps, and there’s also an adapted tram suitable for wheelchair users. Wheelchairs are available for a small deposit and Crich Tramway Museum also offers free admission for carers alongside a discounted rate for less able visitors.
Get out into the great outdoors and meet furry friends on a trip to family-friendly Matlock Farm Park. From deer, sheep, goats, pigs, chickens and ducks, to meerkats, wallabies, alpaca, llama and rhea, you’ll find lots of animals to see and feed, with easy level access throughout the park. Learn more about meerkats through daily talks, enjoy a wallaby encounter and watch ferret or sheep racing. Children will love burning off steam in the indoor play area and popular Garden Room Cafe serving delicious homemade meals and snacks. There are disabled parking facilities and an accessible toilet. Guide dogs are also accepted.
Chatsworth is home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire and has been passed down through 16 generations of the Cavendish family. Fantastic accessible facilities include full lift access to all floors, so visitors using wheelchairs can discover all of the magnificent rooms in the historic building, ranging from the Painted Hall and regal State Rooms to the beautiful Sculpture Gallery. Visitors with visual impairments are eligible for a complimentary audio tour of the house when buying admission tickets and the sensory garden has been developed to stimulate all the senses, including sound, touch and smell. There is a free car park for Blue Badge holders and there are adapted lavatories near the house entrance, in the restaurant and at the farmyard. Assistance dogs are welcome in the house, garden and park.
Visit the world’s first water powered cotton spinning mill at Cromford Mill and learn all about the first complete, factory system. At the heart of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site, Cromford Mill was developed in 1771 by Sir Richard Arkwright. Discover how this remarkable mill site changed the world we live in today with a guided tour and trip inside the visitor centre, cafes and shops. Audio Tours are available everyday, and opposite the mill is Wheatcroft’s cafe with level access and a great location situated next to the wheelchair-friendly Cromford Canal. Carers are admitted free of charge and there’s a Changing Places toilet facility in the car park.
A haven for wildlife and wonderful flat walks, Cromford Canal was once a buzzing hub of Derbyshire’s industry. The canal was crucial to the success of Arkwright’s mill as it was the gateway for his cotton products to be shipped around the country. Nowadays the canal can be explored along the easy-going, level towpath between Cromford Wharf and Ambergate, a distance of just over 5 miles. It’s an ideal stretch for walkers of all ages and abilities with stunning scenery along the way. There’s a disabled toilet at Cromford Canal Wharf and at High Peak Junction, where there are also scooters available for hire.
Monsal Head, Ashford-in-the-Water and the Monsal Trail is one of the most iconic viewpoints in the Peak District, with a pay and display car park (max stay 1 hour) free to blue badge holders. It overlooks Monsal Dale and the magnificent Headstone Viaduct, where the combination of the winding River Wye in the steep sided dale, the wooded slopes, and the striking viaduct (now the popular Monsal Trail), make it one of the most photographed locations in England.
After soaking up the views, drive the short distance to Hassop Station, near Bakewell, where you can access the flat-level Monsal Trail and cross the viaduct yourself! At Hassop Station, you can also hire adapted cycles for people with disabilities. The trail runs along the former Midland Railway line for 8.5 miles between Blackwell Mill, in Chee Dale and Coombs Road, at Bakewell.
Nestled between the market towns of Ashbourne and Wirksworth, Carsington Water is England’s ninth largest reservoir and is open all year round. Look out over the water from the level paths and accessible viewpoints, admire the wildlife in the accessible bird-watching hides, and learn all about the role of water in our daily lives in the Visitor Centre. There is also wheelchair access to the courtyard shops and restaurant, so you can dine on tasty food, treat yourself to an ice-cream and purchase unique gifts and clothing before admiring the waterside paths. Admission is free and there is free parking for blue badge holders. Mobility scooters and electric bikes are also available to hire.
The three mile Baslow to Chatsworth Wheelchair walk is particularly suitable for wheelchairs.
The High Peak and Tissington Trails are also generally level and provide easy walking conditions for all abilities, including wheelchair users. The High Peak Trail runs for 17 miles from near Buxton to High Peak Junction, Cromford. The Tissington Trail runs for 13 miles from Parsley Hay to Ashbourne.
Other accessible recommendations include Hall Leys Park in Matlock, Matlock Bath, Matlock Bath river gardens (Derwent garden), Belper’s River Gardens and Linacre Reservoir. Wheelchair accessible walks in/near Chesterfield are Queen's Park in Chesterfield, Chesterfield canal, The Avenue at Wingerworth and Poolsbrook.
The gardens of big National Trust properties are also generally quite good for access, including Hardwick Hall and the Longshaw Estate. Further afield, there is also a short trail at Calke Abbey which is suitable for wheelchairs and mobility scooters, as well as direct access to the Tramway Trail – a flat, circular route with a hard surface.
"Hope Cross was excellent and a great base for our few days exploring the Dales.The property is kitted out to a really high standard and was very comfortable. A power cut caused a problem with the central heating and the hosts couldn't have done more to get things sorted - we were very grateful. We really enjoyed our stay and would gladly go back." VRBO
"The cottage was perfect for me and my elderly dad. Beautifully furnished, comfortable and spotlessly clean. The hosts were incredibly helpful and understanding of my dad's needs. Highly recommended" VRBO
“Really enjoyed our stay over new year here. Stunning cottage, spotless and exactly as shown on pictures. It’s a lovely place to just go and relax and is about a 25 minute walk to the nearest village, which has a couple of pubs. It’s in the middle of nowhere which worked for us. Great place for relaxation and doing nothing much!” (Lucy stayed at The Cow Shed)
“Would highly recommend!! We have just returned home from a weekend here and it was absolutely faultless. We stayed in The Hayloft and it had everything we could have needed. The property is beautifully finished and so clean!” (Hannah stayed at The Hayloft)
“Can’t wait to return. Lovely situation. Very well appointed kitchen. Great to have the wood burner. Owners could not have been more helpful.” (Emma stayed at The Cow Shed)
“High spec property in a great location. This was a last minute booking and what a lovely surprise. The property has been renovated by Sam and Andrew to an extremely high standard with beautiful furniture and fittings. The beds were really comfortable with lovely mattresses and quality bed linen. The outside BBQ area with its fairy lights, fireplace and BBQ was perfect for an evening celebration especially with the autumnal drop in temperature. Logs were chopped and readily available for both the inside and outside fireplaces. Our lovely hosts were extremely welcoming and arrived with new racquets and balls for the tennis court located just behind the property. Tideswell, with its 3 pubs, is about a mile away down the country lane and the nearby farm had a lovely coffee van with breakfast and lunch rolls and wraps. We will definitely visit again.” (Marian stayed at The Piggery)
“The cottage was well equipped modern and clean. The location was very good, lovely views, great pubs for evening meals and good places to grab breakfast.”
“The cottage is beautiful and a real pleasure for both disabled and able members of our family. My children loved seeing the cows in the garden and playing in the park area.”
LOCAL INFORMATION - TIDESWELL (1 mile)
The village of Tideswell, one mile from Vicarage Farm Cottages, in the heart of the Peak District National Park. Tideswell is probably best known for its unusually large and impressive St John The Baptist Church otherwise known as "The Cathedral of the Peak" with many unusual medieval wooden and stone carvings of hybrid mythical creatures.
The village is also noted for its well dressing and carnival wakes.
Wakes Week: Every last week of June near the summer solstice, the village holds a week long festival known as Wakes. There is well dressing and a number of activities and events culminating in 'Big Saturday', which includes a large scale procession with dressed floats and improvised costumes, followed by an evening Torchlight procession led by Tideswell Brass band playing a unique tune called "The Tideswell Processional" accompanied by villagers dancing a traditional weaving dance - www.tideswellwakes.co.uk
Food Festival: Since May 2011 Tideswell has been host to an ever increasingly popular food festival which draws more visitors and suppliers each year with an expanding array of independent food suppliers. Stalls host local and well travelled independent suppliers all sharing one thing in common, a passion for good quality hand made food. The food festival is held on a Saturday immediately after or the first May bank holiday - ideswellfoodfestival.co.uk
Arts: There is an Annual Tideswell Arts festival in Tideswell Wakes Week in the last week of June, and other concerts and events are held during the year including plays, visiting groups and the very popular "Tideswell Last Night Of The Proms". www.facebook.com/TideswellArtsFestival
Tideswell is beautifully-adorned with charming stone-built buildings and home to a some good pubs and places to eat, where you can sample real ales and home-cooked meals. There’s also a chemist, artisanal butchers and bakers and individual curiosity shops. Pop into the convenience store for your own ingredients, open daily until 10pm, or pick up a takeaway to enjoy from the comfort of your holiday home for when you don’t feel like cooking!
GROCERY SHOPPING:
Tideswell has a Co-op Food; Buxton has a Waitrose, Morrisons and Aldi.
Co-op Food - Tideswell, Commercial Rd, Tideswell, Buxton SK17 8NU. Opens seven days a week from 7am to 10pm (1.2 miles/4 minutes).
Litton Village Shop, The Old Smithy, Litton SK17 8QP - award-winning community-run shop, with a post office counter and general supplies, plus a small café. Open seven days a week (2.2 miles/7 minutes).
Waitrose & Partners Buxton, Spring Gardens Centre, 33 Station Rd, Buxton SK17 6DF (7 miles/18 minutes).
Morrisons, Bakewell Rd, Buxton SK17 9TB (7.1 miles/19 minutes).
ALDI, Station Rd, Buxton SK17 6AQ (6.9 miles/18 minutes).
PUBS NEARBY:
There are eight food-serving pubs within a 10 minute drive – please check for food serving times.
The Horse & Jockey, Queen Street SK17 (1.4 miles/5 minute drive). T - 01298 871 211; www.horseandjockeytideswell.co.uk The Star Inn, High Street SK17 8LD (1.1 miles/4 minute drive). T - 01298 872 725; www.facebook.com/thestarinntideswell
The George Inn, Commercial Road SK17 8NU (1.3 miles/4 minute drive). T - 01298 871 32; www.georgeinn-tideswell.co.uk
The Anchor Inn, Four Lanes End SK17 8RB (1.9 miles/6 minute drive). T - 01298 871 371; www.theanchortideswell.co.uk
Red Lion Inn, Church Lane, Litton SK17 8QU (2.5 miles/7 minute drive). T - 01298 871 458; theredlionlitton.co.uk
The Blind Bull, Little Hucklow SK17 8RT (3.8 miles/9 minute drive). T - 01298 211 949; www.theblindbull.co.uk
Anglers Rest, Millerdale SK17 8SN (3.5 miles/9 minute drive). T - 01298 871 3231; www.anglersrestmillersdale.co.uk
Queen Anne Inn, Main Street, Great Hucklow SK17 8RF (3.4 miles/9 minute drive); queenanneinn.co.uk
RESTAURANTS NEARBY:
The Merchant's Yard, St John's Road, Tideswell SK17 8NY (1.2 miles/4 minute drive). A two rosette restaurant with delicious seasonal and locally sourced dishes (Wheelchair Accessible). Booking in advance essential due to its popularity. T - 01298 8872 442; www.themerchantsyard.com
The Chequers Inn, Froggatt Edge, Froggatt S32 3ZJ (1.4 miles/18 minutes). T - 01433 630 231; www.chequers-froggatt.com
Stella’s Kitchen, Cross Low Farm, Foolow Road, Hope Valley S32 5QS (5 miles/12 minutes). African/Caribbean food during the day on Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday and sit-down meals on Friday and Saturday although space is limited. www.stellas-kitchen.co.uk
Curry Cottage At Lovers Leap, The Dl, Stoney Middleton, Hope Valley S32 4TF (6.4 miles/13 minutes). Indian restaurant and takeaway. www.currycottagerestaurant.co.uk
Curry Cabin, 10 Castleton Rd, Hope, Hope Valley S33 6RD (7 miles/17 minutes). Indian restaurant and takeaway. currycabin.co.uk
TAKEAWAYS NEARBY:
Elliotts Fish & Chips, Commercial Rd, Tideswell SK17 8NU (1.3 miles/4 minutes)
Corner Chippy, Bank Square, Tideswell, Buxton SK17 8NL (1.2 miles/4 minutes)
Toll Bar Fish & Chips, Stoney Middleton S32 4TF (6.5 miles/13 minutes). T - 01433 639 800
The Pizza Merchant, 5 Whitecross Rd, Tideswell SK17 8PD (1.3 miles/4 minutes). T - 01298 871 060. Collection or Delivery
Hope Valley Pizza, Calver, Hope Valley (7 miles/15 minutes drive). T S32 3XH, - 01433 631 706; www.facebook.com/Hopevalleypizza. Collection or Delivery
H&D’s Bistro (1.3 miles/4 minutes). T - 01298 872 574. Alternating Caribbean, Tapas or Thai food - Friday and Saturday Night (eat in or take out). Also Take-away pizza Friday and Saturday evenings (Advance booking recommended)
Stella’s Kitchen, Cross Low Farm, Foolow Road, Hope Valley S32 5QS (5 miles/12 minutes) - Caribbean & African cuisine
Curry Cottage At Lovers Leap, The Dl, Stoney Middleton, Hope Valley S32 4TF - www.currycottagerestaurant.co.uk; T - 01433 630 300; Collection or Delivery
Curry Cabin, 10 Castleton Rd, Hope, Hope Valley S33 6RD (7 miles/17 minutes)
Maazi Indian, 6 The Square, Hathersage S32 1BB (9.5 miles/22 minutes). T - 01433 650 725; maazi.co.uk; Collection or Delivery
Kwei Lin (Chinese Takeaway) 1-2 Lower Hardwick St, Buxton SK17 6DQ (7 miles/18 minutes). T - 01298 77 822; Collection or Delivery
The Great Panda Restaurant (Chinese Takeaway) 7 Eagle Parade, Buxton SK17 6EQ (7 miles/18 minutes). T - 01298 237 03; Collection or Delivery
August Moon (Chinese Chippy and Takeaway) 32 Market St, Chapel-en-le-Frith, High Peak SK23 0HY(6.6 miles/16 minutes). T - 01298 813 931; www.facebook.com/pages/August-Moon/156123737752844
CAFES NEARBY:
High Nelly's Cafe, 2 Bank Square, Tideswell SK17 8LA (1.2 miles/4 minutes). Serves excellent coffee, tea and a tasty Swedish inspired menu. T - 01298 238 75
The Roost, 3 Queen Street, Tideswell SK17 8JT (1.2 miles/4 minutes). Sells fabulous coffee, great food and sells a range of cheeses, dairy produce and other local produce (open seven days a week) T - 01298 384 215
H&D’s Bistro tearoom, The Woodhouse, Queen Street, Tideswell SK17 8PF (1.3 miles/4 minutes). A range of interesting teas, excellent coffee and cakes. Also serves a weekend themed food bistro menu and takeaway food on Friday and to Saturday nights. T - 01298 872 574
The Cherry Tree, Cherry Tree Square, Queen Street SK17 8JZ – a fabulous stop for sandwiches, cakes, sausage rolls and coffee (weekdays only) (1.3 miles/4 minute drive)
Litton Village Shop, The Old Smithy, Litton SK17 8QP - serves tea, coffee and cake (2.2 miles/7 minutes)
The Refreshment Room, Wormhill Road SK17 8SN – located at Millers Dale station on The Monsal Trail (3.8 miles/10 minutes)
SPECIALIST FOOD & DRINK
Tindalls, 6 Commercial Road, Tideswell SK17 8NU – a fantastic bakery/deli open Monday to Friday, and mornings on Saturday. (1.3 miles/4 minutes)
Keepers Cottage Organics, Queen St, Tideswell, Buxton SK17 8JT (1.3 miles/4 minute drive) - An organic Butcher selling much of their home-farmed produce. Open most Fridays and 9am - 3pm Saturday (keeperscottageorganics.co.uk)
Peaches/Queen St, High Street, Tideswell SK17 8JT – Peaches the greengrocers is open six days per week 7.30am – 4pm (till 12.30pm on Saturday) (1.2 miles/4 minutes)
The Bird Cafe And Riverside Herb Centre, Hathersage (9 miles/19 minutes). The centre combines a varied herb shop with a deli and café. Unwind and enjoy the riverside views in the café, before taking home fresh produce from the deli’s selection of cured meats, olives, cheese and bread.
Hope Valley Ice Cream, Thorpe Farm (10 miles/24 minutes). The freshest ingredients including free-range eggs and milk from the Marsden family farm are used in the production of this delicious home-made ice-cream. Flavours include Fuschia’s Cinder Toffee and Gertrude’s Whisky & Ginger. It’s sold in many local cafes and shops and the ice-cream parlour opens at weekends.
OTHER SHOPS IN TIDESWELL
There is a Pharmacy (Fountain Square Pharmacy), a Nail bar and pampering station (Glow), Three Hairdressers – Carol’s, Kay’s and Monet Hairdressing
Peak District Yarns Studio sell hand-dyed yarns, gifts, knitting and crochet accessories, crafty workshops. Open to the public Thursday – Saturday and at other times by arrangement
Tideswell Book Shop has a wonderful collection of second-hand books located in the spectacular surrounds of the old bank. Sweets and cards too. (open Thursday – Sunday
CITIES, TOWNS & VILLAGES
LITTON (2 miles) is a picturesque area and a favourite of walkers and cyclists. Founded after the Norman Conquest, by Sir Dilbert de Lytton, the village was originally a centre for lead-mining. These days village Litton comprises mostly of small cottages and old buildings alongside larger more recently built houses.
EYAM (6 miles) is one of the best-preserved villages in the Peak District National Park, nestled at the foot of Sir William Hill, 800ft above sea level and is surrounded by the most glorious countryside. Eyam has several shops and tea rooms and The Miners Arms pub. Historically the village is known as the famous 'plague village', as it went into voluntary quarantine when the plague was imported from London in 1665 and thus prevented the spread of the disease. There are still mementos of this event within Eyam Museum. There are many fine old houses in Eyam, and parts of the village have been kept as they looked several centuries ago, such as Eyam Hall (National Trust), a beautiful 17th century manor house with delightful gardens, craft shops and tea rooms. Above the village lies Eyam Moor, a fine area for walking, with fantastic views across the Derwent Valley, with its many Bronze Age remains and monuments.
BUXTON (7 miles) is a spa town, home to the world-class Buxton Opera House with a busy events calendar. Attractions include the Buxton Museum & Art Gallery, The Pavilion Gardens. At Grin Low and Buxton Country Park you can visit Solomon's Temple for fantastic views, Poole’s Cavern which runs deep beneath the hillside Go Ape! for a hire wire adventure.
CHAPEL-EN-LE-FRITH (7 miles), the historic Capital of the Peak.
CASTLETON (9 miles) is home to four underground show caves, all worth a visit, for their own interesting features. These are Blue John Cavern, Speedwell Cavern, Peak Cavern and Treak Cliff Cavern. One famous attraction is Blue John Stone, a form of Fluorspa, can be seen within two of the caverns - Blue John Cavernand Treak Cliff Cavern. Jewellery can be found on sale in the village from the small pieces that are still mined and then polished. The village boast six pubs and numerous cafes scattered amongst it's winding lanes and footpaths, all of which lead back to the main street and bustles with activity all year round. Peveril Castle ruins (English Heritage) stand high above the pretty village.
BAKEWELL (10 miles) is a picturesque market town which holds a livestock market every Monday and the home of the world famous Bakewell Pudding. It offers a good selection of shops, pubs and restaurants, as well as Old House Museum. There are great walks along the riverside on the banks of the river Wye and the Monsal Trail runs along the former Midland Railway line for 8.5 miles between Blackwell Mill and Coombs Road at Bakewell.
HATHERSAGE (10 miles) is an interesting village with a fine church and with historical associations to Robin Hood and the Eyre family, popular with walkers and rock-climbers as it is overlooked by moorland and a line of gritstone edges of which Stanage Edge is the largest with picturesque views.
EDALE village (10.5 miles) nestles under Kinder Scout and is the start of The Pennine Way, the first and the longest public footpath in England opened in 1965.
HARTINGTON (14.5 miles) is an attractive busy little village dating back to the early 1200's. It is close to The Tissington Trail and also a good place to start walking along Beresford Dale. Nearby is Arbor Low Stone Circle (English Heritage).
CHESTERFIELD (18 miles), famous for its crooked spire, an historic market town.
MATLOCK BATH (18.5 miles) attractions include the Heights of Abraham with its famous cable cars and park featuring underground tours of Masson and Rutland caverns, Gulliver's Kingdom theme park and Temple Mine, the Peak District Mining Museum.
SHEFFIELD (19.5 miles), with all its culture.
CROMFORD (21 miles) is steeped in industrial history and often called the cradle of the industrial revolution, and has an interesting walk as well as Arkwright's Cromford Mill, now a World Heritage Site.
BOLSOVER (24 miles) is home to Bolsover Castle (English Heritage), along with specialist food shop, Jaquest’s.
BELPER (27.5 miles), winner of the 2014 Great British High Street Awards.
DERBY (36 miles) with its contemporary, vibrant culture.
CASTLES, FOLLIES, HOUSES & GARDENS
Eyam Hall located within Eyam village (6.5 miles), is a small but charming. historic house and gardens.
Peveril Castle (English Heritage), Castleton (7.5 miles). Discover the breathtaking views from the top of the castle ruins above the village of Castleton.
Solomon’s Temple (10 miles). The tower itself was built in 1896 to replace an earlier structure constructed by Solomon Mycock a local farmer and landowner. Although not in the true spirit of a folly, that is having no practical purpose whatsoever, Solomon's Temple actually occupies a site of ancient significance. It rises from the centre of an ancient burial mound, and during the tower's construction an archaeological dig here revealed several Bronze Age skeletons from the "Beaker Period", along with later Roman items.
Haddon Hall (11.5 miles). Offering events throughout the year, it's a wonderful day out. Haddon Hall is probably the finest example of a fortified medieval manor house in existence. Present-day Haddon Hall dates from the 12th Century to the early 17th Century, whereupon it lay dormant for over two hundred years from 1700 until the 1920s, when the 9th Duke and Duchess of Rutland restored the house and gardens, and once again made it habitable. Haddon Hall was the location for the film The Other Boleyn Girl.
Chatsworth House & Gardens (11.5 miles). The magnificent Chatsworth House, home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, was Mr Darcy’s home in the 2005 version of Pride and Prejudice. The house has over 30 rooms to explore, from the magnificent Painted Hall, Regal State rooms, newly restored Sketch Galleries and beautiful Sculpture Gallery. Explore the 1000 acre park, the farmyard behind the house, and the small adventure playground. It is beautifully dressed around the Christmas period. Chatsworth House and Gardens has many year round events to offer.
Lyme Park (National Trust), Disley (16 miles). Glorious house, surrounded by gardens, moorland and deer park. Step back into Edwardian times and explore the1,300 acre estate.
Lea Gardens, Matlock (23.5 miles).
Bolsover Castle (English Heritage), Bolsover (24 miles) is a fantastic place to immerse yourself in the Golden Age of Chivalry.
Renishaw Hall & Gardens, Renishaw (24 miles).
Hardwick Hall (National Trust), near Chesterfield (26.5 miles).
Tatton Park, Tatton Park Gardens, Knutsford (34 miles) with its fine Georgian mansion full of art treasures and original furnishings.
KIDS ACTIVITIES & ATTRACTIONS
Peak Llamas, Stanley Moor Farm, Great Hucklow (4 miles), offers llama trekking in the Peak District.
Eyam Museum, Eyam (6 miles) - 01433 631371. Discover the history of this Plague Village.
GO APE at Buxton Country Park, Buxton (8 miles). Tree top adventure centre with zip wires, obstacle course and trips in the forest using electric subways.
Poole's Cavern & Buxton Country Park, Buxton (8 miles).
Miniature Train, The Pavilion Gardens, Buxton (7 miles).
Chatsworth Farmyard & Adventure Playground, Chatsworth House, Bakewell DE45 1PP (12 miles): The farmyard offers an almost guaranteed hit with children of all ages. They can meet ponies and lambs, have a trailer ride followed by swings, climbing and a splash around in the open air.
Buxton Swimming Pool, Buxton SK17 6BE (7 miles)
Castleton Visitor Centre, Castleton (8.5 miles) - 01433 620679.
Speedwell Cavern, Winnats Pass, Castleton (8 miles) - 01433 623018.
Swain's Centre, Buxton SK17 9JL (9.5 miles). Go-karting centre, races for young and older!
Longshaw Estate - National Trust, Longshaw (11.5 miles) is a lovely area to explore with the kids on circular waymarked walks through ancient woods and hay meadows, and venture up to gritstone edges for spectacular views. Check the website for exciting family events and activities such as climbing and abseiling.
Matlock Farm Park, Matlock (17.5 miles).
The Heights of Abraham, Matlock Bath (18.5 miles). Hilltop park reached by cable car, with cavern tours, walking trails, fossil exhibitions and cafe.
Peak District Mining Museum, Matlock Bath (18.5 miles).
Gulliver's Kingdom, Matlock Bath (18.5 miles), is a fun theme park for children aged 2-13. With exciting rides, an enticing dinosaur area and even a safari zone, the kids are bound to burn off some of that excess energy with a day at the park.
Tittesworth Reservoir, Leek (19 miles). Lovely walks around this reservoir with ducks geese and lots of other wildlife.
The Play Mill, Bonsall, Matlock (20.5 miles).
Chesterfield miniature railway, Hady Hill, Chesterfield (18.5 miles).
Jump Heaven, Hazel Grove, Stockport SK7 5BW (19.5 miles). With huge wall to wall trampolines, climbing areas and a Total Wipeout challenge, there is lots to keep energetic children happy and busy.
Crich Tramway Village Museum, Crich (24.5 miles) - be transported by vintage trams.
Carsington Water, Ashbourne (24 miles).
Stainsby Mill (25 miles). Situated on the NT Hardwick Estate take a look around and explore this working watermill.
Alton Towers Theme Park (28 miles) is the ideal day out for the whole family. Get your heart pumping on Rita, your stomach dropping on Oblivion and your pulse racing on Nemesis.
Sudbury Hall and Museum of Childhood (The National Trust), Sudbury (35 miles) lets you explore the delights of 17th-century craftsmanship. Then feel what it was really like in the olden days – be a chimney sweep, a scullion or a Victorian pupil.
Creswell Crags Museum & Heritage Centre, Creswell, Worksop (30 miles) - 01909 720378.
The National Brewery Centre, Burton-on-Trent (43 miles). The 'brewing experience' incorporates the original Bass Museum.
Derby Museum & Art Gallery, Derby (35 miles) displays collections relating to the history of Derby.
CYCLING
For cyclists the Peak District offers an abundance of quiet country lanes which criss-cross the limestone plateau between the high drystone walls which surround the village of Tideswell.
Slightly further afield is the traffic-free Monsal Trail, which follows the former Midland Railway threading through the deep gorge of the river Wye past some of the most spectacular dales scenery. Suitable for cyclists, wheelchair users, walkers, joggers and horse riders. It runs for 8.5 miles between Bakewell and Blackwell Mill (near Buxton).
CYCLE HIRE
Blackwell Mill Cycle Hire are situated at the start of the Magnificent Monsal Trail and hire out bikes at competitive rates - www.peakblackwellcyclehire.com.
WALKING
There is excellent walking with rugged peaks to the north, gentle hills and dales to the south and Millers Dale. Mam Tor and Castleton are only a few miles away and the popular Spa town of Buxton is within a 15 minute drive.
Towards the southern end of Tideswell village is Tideswell Dale Nature Reserve offering a lovely local walking area and featuring a fun sculpture trail.
The Upper Derwent Valley (13 miles) dominated by three great reservoirs, is renowned for its spectacular scenery, with its deep wooded valleys and bleak, rugged moorland. It is the perfect place to enjoy some the UK's most beautiful landscapes and to experience the great outdoors. You can walk for miles around the dams, as well as up and over the moors.
Whether you are a serious walker or enjoy a leisurely stroll there is a walk for you! Here are some suggestions:
Monk's Dale, Miller's Dale and Tideswell Dale, 6.7 miles moderate circular walk from Tideswell - www.walkingenglishman.com/peakdistrict19.htmlGOLF
The Buxton and High Peak Golf Club, Fairfield, Buxton (6 miles) suitable for those of all abilities.
ADVENTURE
For those looking for a little adventure Speedwell Cavern and Peak Cavern, Castleton (8 miles) offer underground experiences not to be forgotten.
Peak Cavern is one of the UK’s largest guided tours, taking you down underground for a closer look at the unique rock formations.
For an even more unusual trip underground, head to Speedwell Cavern, where you can hop on a boat tour of the 18th-century lead-mining cavern 450m below ground.
Blue Mountain Activities offer adventure activities including rock climbing, abseiling, canoeing, caving, mountaineering, team building and problem solving. Suitable for family groups, hen groups, corporate events. 01246 231767.
Carsington Water (24 miles) is a great day out, with an adventure playground, bird-watching and watersports all on offer. Sail, powerboat, windsurf or kayak.
For the bigger kids Wild Park Derbyshire, DE6 3BN (32 miles) offers paintballing, quad biking and bike trekking.
EVENTS
FEBRUARY
Ashbourne Royal Shrovetide Football on Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday (25 miles).
MARCH
Ashbourne Royal Shrovetide Football on Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday (25 miles).
Leek Food and Drink Festival (19.5 miles).
APRIL
Bakewell Food Festival, Town Centre, Bakewell (9 miles).
Tour of the Peak Sportive, Bakewell Showground (10 miles).
MAY
Bakewell Food Festival, Town Centre, Bakewell (9 miles).
Dodson & Horrell Chatsworth International Horse Trials, Chatsworth House (12 miles).
Tideswell Food Festival (1 mile). 10am-4pm tideswellfoodfestival.co.uk
JUNE
Ashbourne Festival, Ashbourne (25 miles).
Streetfest, Ashbourne (25 miles).
The Cow Shed Beer Festival, Agricultural Business Centre, Bakewell (10 miles).
Peak Model Railway Exhibition, Agricultural Business Centre, Bakewell (10 miles).
International Day of Dance, Town Centre, Bakewell (9 miles).
Bakewell Carnival Week, Town Centre, Bakewell (9 miles).
Tideswell Wakes Week (1 mile) - held in the last full week of June every year and culminates on the last Saturday of June with Big Saturday.
Tideswell Arts Festival (1 mile) - held in the last full week of June every year.
JULY
Bakewell Carnival Week, Town Centre, Bakewell (9 miles).
Stainsby Festival, Stainsby, Chesterfield (25.5 miles).
Highland Gathering, Ashbourne Recreation Ground (25 miles).
Y-Not Festival, Pikehall (15.5 miles).
AUGUST
Peakender Beer Festival, Bakewell Showground (10 miles).
Buxton Family Festival, Pavilion Gardens, Buxton (7.5 miles).
Bakewell Show, Bakewell Showground (10 miles).
Ashover Agricultural Show, Ashover Showground (20 miles).
Model Tram & Railway Exhibition, Crich Tramway Village (24.5 miles).
Eyam Carnival and Wakes Week, Eyam (6 miles).
Grand Medieval Joust, Bolsover Castle (24.5 miles).
Hope Show, Bolsover Castle (24.5 miles).
SEPTEMBER
Eyam Carnival and Wakes Week, Eyam (6 miles).
Heritage Open Days. A four-day festival celebrating England's local history and giving access to thousands of places usually closed to the public.
Chatsworth Country Fair, Chatsworth House (12 miles).
Wirksworth Festival, Wirksworth (21.5 miles).
Matlock Bath Illuminations, Matlock Bath (18.5 miles).
Chesterfield Well Dressing at Chesterfield (18 miles).
OCTOBER
Bakewell Wool Gathering, Agricultural Business Centre, Bakewell (10 miles).
Matlock Bath Illuminations, Matlock Bath (18.5 miles).
Starlight Spectacular, Crich Tramway Village (24.5 miles) - illuminating the site with special lighting effects and trams in the dark.
Half term Halloween hoot, Chatsworth House (12 miles).
Fire garden and fireworks, Chatsworth House (12 miles).
Spookyshire- Halloween in the Peak District. Scores of Spooktacular events during an autumn festival of fun. Ranging from Halloween Half Term fun at Gulliver’s, Crich Tramway Village and Standedge Tunnel & Visitor Centre to name just a few.
Scarefest at Alton Towers (28 miles).
NOVEMBER
Half term Halloween hoot, Chatsworth House (12 miles).
Spookyshire- Halloween in the Peak District. Scores of Spooktacular events during an autumn festival of fun. Ranging from Halloween Half Term fun at Gulliver’s, Crich Tramway Village and Standedge Tunnel & Visitor Centre to name just a few.
Fire garden and fireworks, Chatsworth House (12 miles).
Christmas at Chatsworth, Chatsworth House (12 miles).
Christmas Market, Chatsworth House (12 miles).
Bakewell Christmas weekend, Town Centre, Bakewell (9 miles). A traditional Christmas market with 80+ stalls, Father Christmas plus entertainment.
DECEMBER
Christmas Tree Festival, All Saints Church, Bakewell (9 miles).
Christmas at Chatsworth, Chatsworth House (12 miles), closed 24, 25, 26 December and 1 January.
Things you need to know about Hope Cross Stables if you’re thinking of booking a holiday there:
*Internet access is offered at this property for recreational purposes only and is not meant for business use. Speed/service may vary depending on the package obtained by the owner which is provided to guests free of charge. Should guests experience difficulties or loss of use, neither the owner nor the agent will be held responsible.
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