Perry E
February 2018
This haven in the Peak District, is a holiday my family and I will surely remember for its quiet triumphs...
If you want to stay in the Peak District, in a cottage without frills, unencumbered, by gimmicks. Without the normal expectancy, unashamed luxury, then this bashful cottage is for you, guys.
Cheaper than a Travelodge you can stay in the Peak District, in this delightful and most organic accommodation, nestling in its own pocket of paradise, and savour a great experience in Youlgreave in the foothills of the Peak district.
The fact is, folks. I found a place that gave me the very best of the Peak District, and we had a fine old time.
This cottage is a great little bolthole!!!
Andrea and I had to forage a little bit! It was a challenge to find. That excited me!
Tucked away behind a small green ‘cliff’ was this stone retreat in a tiny cluster of riverfront abodes, with a nature trail along the bank, below some 100 odd yards at the foot of the property. Access, was steep track straight to the bottom. The river morphed for miles, from brook to stream and then torrent, meandering through a small ravine, lined with woodland either side. Stone bridges and dry stone walls connected to some undulating forest, that became part of our backdrop and early morning constitutional.
We tripped down this track with Stanley our dog for him to paddle and play. Not for long. This is where wildlife abounds! Back on the lead he goes.
So, after a quick panning of this lush spot, flanking the ‘fortification’ was a sweeping route straight across a huge meadow heading for the Peaks.
Now, the cottage, or ‘The Notch’, as I called it, is cosy and unpretentious. Pretty, and characterful, with a touch of the rustic. Mandatory, Inglenook with wood-burner. Upstairs is even cosier. Some vintage décor and a clean comfy double bed, with bunks for the kids next door. Cheerfully presented bathroom.
Demure furnishing, and local art on the walls. Lounging, sofas. The galley kitchen has a stairway ascending. It is dainty, fitted, conventional and straightforward. All cupboards provided for, and are ‘unbuttoned’. A cute table and chairs by the window.
We all found the accommodation unassuming and placid in humble repose. No beat of the drum or ceremony. It had a host of its own humble merits. A hospitable secluded lodge, with a heart. Friendly, without the flam.
The peaceful and serene ambience warmed me to this wonderful piece of Derbyshire.
Youlgreave, Matlock and Bakewell holds a great appeal for those visitors in search of unspoiled tradition and character bursting with a wealth of entertainment venues, attractions, parks and shops. The owners are helpful and lovely folk, and the maid, a real fastidious professional. I cannot praise the RIVER COTTAGE experience enough. We will return. You bet.