There are so many things to do and explore in the local area….so for some inspiration, here are our top 10 things not to miss out on when visiting Bolehill Farm - this list could have been easily longer than '10' but we've tried hard to resist...
1. VISIT CHATSWORTH – the home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, this one of the most famous landmarks in the country and is a great day out for the whole family, with the house, gardens, farmyard and adventure playground to explore. Check out the Chatsworth website for events which they have on during the year, from food festivals to horse trials. In addition, their Christmas displays are spectacular.
2.TAKE A BIKE RIDE – this is one of our favourite things to do in the area. The Monsal, Tissington and High Peak trails are just a short drive away and include areas to hire cycles if you wish. These trails are off road making it a safe environment for the whole family. We have installed a timber clad cycle shelter at Bolehill for you to store you beloved bike(s).
3. ENJOY A REAL BAKEWELL PUDDING – there are lots of different shops in Bakewell claiming to have the ‘original’ Bakewell Pudding….so why not give one a try! You can’t visit Bakewell without giving one a try (unless you're Dan and allergic to nuts!). Just remember not to call it a 'Bakewell Tart' - this is something quite different...
4. TAKE A WALK FROM THE DOOR TO LATHKILL DALE – this really is a beautiful walk. Start off in Monyash or Over Haddon – or if you are feeling adventurous you can walk to Over Haddon following the footpath from your front door at Bolehill. The Lathkil Hotel (a superb real ale pub with food to match) in Over Haddon is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the views after a relaxing walk.
5. VISIT A WELL DRESSING - This is something which is unique to Derbyshire, so if you don’t know what they are, give it a google. Click here to see the well dressing calendar for our local area. They run from April to September.
6. TAKE A PUB WALK - There are so many different walks in the area which can be enjoyed yet if are looking for a pub walk from the front door, why not try 'The Cock and Pullet' in Sheldon or 'The Lathkil Hotel' in Over Haddon. Both are approximately a 2 mile walk across fields from your door at Bolehill Farm.
7. VISIT HADDON HALL - another one of our personal favourites, a real jewel in the crown. Located just outside Bakewell it’s just a short drive away (approximately 10 minute drive), the Tudor House and spectacular gardens are a perfect way to spend an easy going afternoon. Click here to visit their website.
8. CHECK OUT ONE OF THE CAVES IN THE AREA - if you don’t mind being underground, Castleton Caves are spectacular, comprising of Speedwell and Peak Cavern.
9. VISIT EYAM – one of the best preserved villages in the area, it is famous for being the ‘plague village’ during the 1600’s. A fascinating visit.
10. SEE THE VIEW AT MONSAL HEAD - One not to miss on your visit. Truly breathtaking views which demonstrates some of the most magnificent views in the Peak District National Park.
Welcome to a beautiful area of the country which houses many superb attractions, events, pubs, views and activities. We appreciate that if you are new to an area, it is useful to know of suggested places to go, see and do. Therefore, we have complied a sample list (ever expanding). Your feedback is welcomed for new things to add.
In addition, there are an extensive range of leaflets and brochures provided in our leisure area if you are in need of a bit of inspiration for how to spend a day.
HISTORIC HOUSES
Probably one of the most famous homes in the country, Chatsworth is home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire. It is approximately a 10 minutes drive from Bolehill Farm. It beholds stunning architecture and the gardens are not to be missed - it’s a full day out. Chatsworth has something for the whole family. Its farmyard and playground is ideal for the little ones to explore and enjoy. The house, extensive gardens and the grounds are superb for the older children in us. They have an array of events throughout the year, including horse trials, country shows, special Christmas markets and spectacular Christmas decorations in December.
One of the most popular destinations in the local area, this stunning medieval manor is situated just a couple of miles outside of Bakewell. It continues to be home to the Manners family. It features beautiful gardens and it has featured in many period films and TV shows, including 'Jane Eyre' and ‘The Princess Bride’. Our favourite room is the long gallery - it’s simply beautiful. It plays host to a number of events during the year, including Artisan markets and special Christmas exhibitions during December. There is also a licensed restaurant on-site which you can visit without going into the house or gardens. The restaurant has views over the river Wye - serving drinks, snacks, main meals and afternoon teas. We visited in the summer when the artisan market was on, which was an added bonus. We particularly liked the gardens which contained gorgeous flowers, providing inspiration for our own garden!
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EYAM HALL - National Trust
Eyam Hall was built in the 17th Century, shortly after the village was intruded by the plague. Eyam has some interesting stories to tell. With a legendary plague history, fascinating stories and a setting amongst the most beautiful in the Peak District National Park - a day in Eyam is one to experience. There are also guided tours of the village (more details on the National Trust website). There is also a craft centre at Eyam Hall, which dogs are welcome in.
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BOLSOVER CASTLE - English Heritage
Set beautifully with spectacular views over Derbyshire, Bolsover Castle allows you to explore the lavish rooms of the Little Castle, the ruined terraces and admire the fountain gardens. This Stuart Mansion was built to impress guests and it is still fulfilling this purpose today. There is an audio guide available if you want to hear all about the history of the Castle and a tearoom onsite for a nice cup of tea and a treat too.
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HARDWICK HALL - National Trust / English Heritage
First created by the formidable Bess Hardwick in the 1500's, Hardwick Hall is famous for being more glass than wall. There is lots to explore here - a house, gardens and parkland (with lots of walks). The new Hall is owned by the National Trust. There is also the Old Hall which is on the same site (this is run by the English Heritage, with an audio tour available). You can choose to visit either individually or both.
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KEDLESTON HALL - National Trust
Kedleston Hall, was built in 18th century and is presently owned by the National Trust. The house has been beautifully restored and there are some spectacular rooms, our favourite room being the dome. They usually have a daily introduction talk at 11:30am before the house fully opens to the public (ensure you call before attending to double check this is still the case). There are some lovely grounds to walk in, dogs are welcome in the grounds too. The cafe is a good spot to refuel after a walk around the grounds, the outdoor cafe seating is particularly recommended.
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LYME PARK - National Trust
Located on the edge of the Peak District National Park, the Grade I listed house is surrounded by formal gardens and a sublime deer park. The house dates back to the late 16th century and has been run by the National Trust since 1946. There is the opportunity for talks on the history of the house and in most rooms if you want to ask questions, guides are present. Lyme Park is a popular location for filming, with accolades including Pride and Prejudice. There are many peaceful places to walk in the gardens and grounds. There is also a lovely cafe, for a coffee or maybe a lunch stop. Regency afternoon teas are an option, yet booking is required for this.
ATTRACTIONS
Set in the heart of the historic town of Bakewell, the Old House Museum is an original Tudor dwelling. After nearly 500 hundred years of continuous use, the house was rescued from demolition in the 1950's. Today as a museum it contains a wide range of artifacts telling the story of Bakewell and the surrounding Peak District.
Probably not one for you if you have a fear of heights but if not, you will be rewarded with some spectacular views from the cable cars. If you brave the journey there is lots to enjoy at the top. There is a cavern to explore, High Falls and Treetops visitor centre. With 60 acres of park and woodland you can wander and explore, plus there are two play areas for the younger members of the family as well as picnic areas.
Hidden in the cliffs in Buxton, go wild in exploring the vast limestone caverns. You will see how crystal stalactites have lined the chamber over millions of years. A fascinating venue. This is the perfect place to visit on a rainy day
This Go Ape centre is just a 20 minutes drive away from our cottages. It is set in a woodland park within the same area as one of the Peak Districts largest cave systems, Pooles Cavern. The centre is located just outside Buxton. If you are not feeling adventurous enough to swing the high ropes, then you can walk up through the woods to Solomon's Temple for spectacular views over Buxton and the surrounding countryside.
Castleton village is about 30 minutes drive from our cottages. It’s home to the four 'show caves' - essentially four old underground caves that have proved enormously popular due to their fascinating heritage and wonderfully interesting interior. They are called Peak Cavern (also known lovingly as The Devils Arse), Speedwell Cavern (with an underground boat trip), Treak Cliff and Blue John Cavern.
Set in a lovely location, the Crich Tramway Village is a top day out for all the family and dogs are welcome too! You can explore by riding the trams, visit the exhibitions and step back in time along the recreated period street. There is also an indoor and outdoor play area for the little ones to enjoy. There are a range of place to eat and drink, including the Red Lion pub, which serves cask ales.
With a wide range of water sports, cycle hire and fishing, Carsington Water has something for everyone. Explore the vast network of paths and trails that circumnavigate Carsington Water; explore on foot or bike. There is an adventure playground and an array of wildlife to see. There is also a visitor’s centre and a couple of shops on site.
BEAUTY SPOTS
Lathkill Dale is on our doorstep and can easily be seen from our fields. There is a footpath a few hundred metres away which leads to Over Haddon village that provides access directly to the dale. Alternatively, a short walk along the road provides a second access via an old packhorse track. The dale is famous for its wildlife (especially the Dipper) and for its crystal clear water.
The Dovedale stepping stones are just 20 minutes drive away from our cottages. Although the stepping stones themselves can get very busy in summer, it is always possible to see the river and its valley in their true magnificence by walking just a few hundred yards past the crowds.
Monsal Head is about 10 minutes drive from our cottages and is a famous beauty spot with a terrific view across Monsal Dale and up the Wye valley. The position is at a spot where the Wye, on its passage eastwards to meet the Derwent, encounters a band of harder rock and is forced to make a sharp turn southwards and carve its way through a high ridge of limestone. The view is spectacular, with the river far below, winding through a steep-sided and often rocky valley. The route of the former Midland Railway makes its way along Monsal Dale and was carried by a viaduct over the river and into a tunnel which goes right beneath Monsal Head.
The Ladybower reservoirs are about 30-40 minutes drive from our cottages. In all, there is the modern Ladybower reservoir and the two older reservoirs (Howden and Derwent). Derwent Dam is known for its use as a 'practise' dam for the famous Dambuster raids. The site of Derwent Dam includes a large car park, a visitors centre and easy access right up to the dam wall.
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PADLEY GORGE
Padley Gorge is an ancient old beech tree lined gorge between Grindleford Station (well known for its cafe) and the National Trust Longshaw Estate. In Autumn, when the leaves change to their golden colour, Padley Gorge becomes a magical place to walk.
Over the last few years the Peak District has become a major destination for cyclists. The 2014 Tour de France passed through the northern portion of the Peak District and the annual Euroica cycling festival is hosted locally.
The Peak District is a brilliant place to explore on a bike, with a number of different off-road cycle paths for the whole family to enjoy.
We have recently invested in a specially designed cycle storage shelter, providing a dedicating place to store your bike. We also have a wash down area in order for you to ensure your bike is in the best condition after a cycle. There are also brushes available to clean your bikes with.
We are ideally located for most of the trails, about 3 miles from the Monsal, High Peak and Tissington Trails.
There are other routes in easy reach including Carsington Water and Derwent Dam.
We have a range of maps and route on site which are available to borrow. If you don't have your own bike to bring along on your holiday, there are places available to hire bike, these can be found on the links below, or we can advise when you arrive for your stay.
The Monsal Trail is the former Midland Railway Line which runs for 8.5 miles between Blackwell Mill in Chee Dale and Coombs Road in Bakewell. It is now a traffic free route for walkers, cyclists, horse riders and wheelchair users. It passes through spectacular limestone dales, with a number of tunnels along the route. Along with the tunnels there is also a spectacular viaduct on the route. Cycle hire is available from Hassop Station. Contact them for more details on 01629 810 588. Cycle hire is also available from the other end of the trail at Blackwell Mill Cycle Hire, contact them on 01298 70838 for further details.
There are a number of different options on where to park to visit the trail:
- Bakewell - various options
- Hassop Station – next to the Trail (cycle hire available)
- Monsal Head – a short but steep walk to the Trail
- Tideswell Dale – about 1 mile from the Trail
- Millers Dale – next to the Trail
- Wyedale – a ten-minute walk along a bridleway to the Trail.
Suggested stop offs: The Hassop Station Cafe and Monsal Head Hotel are both just off the Monsal Trail
A former railway line, the Tissington trail runs between Parsley Hay and Ashbourne covering 13 miles in total. As with the other trails, it's a traffic free route for walkers and cyclists alike.
This is probably one of the most popular routes within the local area. It passes through or near some of the most picturesque villages in the Peak District.
If you don't have your own bikes, there is cycle hire available in Parsley Hay. Contact them for more information on 01298 84493. Or if you want to start at the other end of the trail, cycle hire is also available in Ashbourne call 01335 343156.
There are a number of places to park along the route:
- Parsley Hay (cycle hire available)
- Tissington
- Hartington
- Ashbourne (cycle hire available)
Suggested stop offs:
- Tissington is a lovely place for a well-earned break. We would say it is a must to pass through Tissington, as it is one of the best preserved old villages in the area, with a spectacular old Hall - Tissington Hall. There is a popular cafe just next to the Hall called Herberts. It gets very busy in the summer, especially if the weather is fine. We have enjoyed afternoon tea here a few times!
- Hartington is also a popular stop off along this route. It is a pretty village, with historic buildings arranged around the large green in the centre of the village. Again, as with Tissington it can become very busy in the summer months, particularly when the sun is shining. There is a fabulous cheese shop in Hartington. The village used to have a Stilton cheese factory, which sadly closed, but the shop still sells a varied range of local cheeses
The High Peak trail is the longest of the three trails in the local area spanning approximately 17.5 miles between High Peak Junction, (near Cromford) and Dowlow (just outside of Buxton). As with the Tissington and Monsal trail, the High Peak trail is a traffic-free trail suitable for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. It passes through some of Derbyshire's finest countryside.
Cycle hire is available from Middleton Top Cycle Hire. They can be contacted on 01629 823204.
You can access the route from a number of places including:
- High Peak Junction
- Hurdlow
- Middleton Top Cycle Hire.
- Cromford Wharf
Suggested stop offs:
- The Royal Oak pub is located just off the trail at Hurdlow, serving food all day (details in our ‘Where to Eat’ section of our ‘Welcome Folder’
- Cromford Wharf - Cromford Wharf is the historic terminus of the Cromford Canal. Built at the end of the 18th century, it is a nice spot to enjoy
- High Peak Junction Visitors Centre
We are lucky to be located just 100 metres from the footpath which links to Over Haddon in one direction and Sheldon in the other. Within our welcome folder which is provided to you in your cottage, there are full details of the walks from the door, maps and of course recommendations of pubs stops too!
- Walk 1 - To Sheldon
- Walk 2 - To Over Haddon
- Walk 3 - To Monyash
There are many towns and villages to visit in the local area, below are some of our suggestions.
BAKEWELL
We are located just 2 miles from the centre of the historic market town of Bakewell – the only town within the Peak District National Park. With its rich history and fame stemming from the Bakewell pudding, it is a great place to spend an afternoon, or a whole day - it is the gleaming gem of the Peak District.
Idyllically situated on the banks of the river Wye, this is the perfect setting for a river walk. It houses the medieval five arch bridge and several quaint courtyards. If you need a coffee break, you will be spoilt for choice with a wide range of coffee shops or a number of pubs if you fancy something stronger.
OVER HADDON
Over Haddon is our nearest village and can be approached either by a 20 minute walk over fields from a footpath 100-200 yards from our cottages or via road (a few minutes drive). The village is perched at the top of Lathkil Dale with spectacular views over the dale towards the far hillside and provides easy but steep access to the Dale itself. There is a friendly pub, 'The Lathkil Hotel' that serves real ale and scrumptious food. During the summer months, 'The Garden Tea Room' is open, providing excellent tea and cakes on their front terrace during the summer months.
ASHFORD -IN -THE WATER
The beautiful village of Ashford-in-the-Water is just a few minutes drive from our cottages or alternatively a 30 minute walk across fields from the door. The village is well worth a visit if nothing else to see the 'Sheep Wash' bridge. The village shop is still thriving as are both of the pubs and the small tea room.
TISSINGTON
Tissington Village is part of the Tissington estate and as such has changed very little over the last 100 years or so. Tissington is roughly 30 minutes from our cottages. It is regarded as one of the most picturesque English villages and is a popular tourist attraction, particularly during its well dressing week. There are numerous small little businesses in the village from a candle maker to a an old fashioned sweet shop. In the centre of the village lies the terrific Tissington Hall. There is a popular cafe situated next to the Hall, called Herberts. It gets very busy in the summer, especially if the weather is fine. We have enjoyed afternoon tea here a few times!
HARTINGTON
This is another one of the more popular villages in the Peaks, with olde-worlde buildings arranged around a large village green. It can get very busy in the summer months. There is a lovely cheese shop in Hartington. The village used to have a Stilton cheese factory, which sadly closed, but the shop still sells a good range of local cheeses. It also has a couple of pubs and a range of cafes to choose from.
ENDESOR
This pretty little village is part of the Chatsworth estate (10-15 minutes drive from your cottage). Originally the village was close to the River Derwent immediately below Chatsworth. However, between 1838 and 1842 William Cavendish, 6th Duke of Devonshire had it moved out of sight over a hill, apart from one cottage whose tenant did not want to move, which still stands in Chatsworth Park. It is a charming little village with every one of its small houses of a different architectural design. There is now a superb tea room where the old post office used to be.
Everyone tastes are different, so take a look and see what you think. There are so many places to eat in the local area - you will be spoilt for choice! There is a more extensive list of places to eat in our cottage welcome folder. There are also a range of menus available too.
All of the below are within a 15 minute drive and give you an idea on what is available before your visit. We are always happy to try and make suggestions if you need!
THE LATHKILL HOTEL - Over Haddon - 2 miles 01629 812501
You can walk to this pub directly from Bolehill! This is a pub with really terrific views over Lathkill Dale - one of the most spectacular in the Peak District. Although it's called a hotel; it's a pub with rooms. It serves a classic English menu, with a lunchtime buffet available throughout the summer. Featuring in the Good Beer Guide, it's the perfect place to enjoy an evening summer drink. Real ale drinkers rejoice!
- Dogs: Welcome in the bar area
THE BULLS HEAD - Monyash - 2 miles 01629 812372
Situated on the perimeter edge of the village green within the pretty village of Monyash, The Bulls Head is popular with locals and tourists alike. You can sit in either the bar or restaurant area and the menu consists of typical pub food.
- Dogs: Welcome in the bar area
THE COCK & PULLET - Sheldon - 2 miles 01629 12931
Along with the Lathkil Hotel, this is another option for a pub walk from the door! A classic, local village pub, it provides both bar snacks and a full menu. Seating is limited, so it is advisable to book, or turn up early in the evening. The pub has a pool table and darts board.
- Dogs: Welcome in the bar area
PIEDANIELS - Bakewell - 2 miles 01629 812687
A classic French restaurant with a French chef Eric, run along with his wife Christiana. The menu and the food are excellent. If you are looking for a special place to eat, this is the place for you. They offer a lunchtime and evening midweek set menu which is excellent value for money for the type of food served. We love it here for a special occasion - a definite favourite!
STEAK AND BURGER - Bakewell - 2 miles 01629 815613
If you are wanting a steak or a burger, the newest restaurant in Bakewell could be the one for you, serving steak and burgers!
THE PEACOCK - Bakewell - 2 miles 01629 813635
Located in the centre of Bakewell. The Peakcock is one of the more expensive pubs in Bakewell. Serving all the pub classics with some rustic French dishes included, using locally sourced ingredients. They also serve a range of Peak Ales.
THE PACK HORSE INN - Little Longstone - 5 miles 01629 640471
This historic pub is located just off the Monsal Trail. They serve a range of traditional pub dishes and tapas. It has the very popular Thornbridge Brewery beers available (we wouldn't hesitate to recommend these!). The Pack Horse has a really cosy friendly feel, with candle light and fires burning, giving it a real atmosphere. One of our favourites, although this is a small pub with few tables, so make sure you book ahead.
- Dogs: Welcome in the bar
THE CRISPIN INN - Great Longstone - 5 miles 01629 640237
Situated in the heart of the pretty village, Great Longstone. The Crispin is a homely pub, serving good value homemade pub favourites. The mug ceiling is particularly spectacular – you’ll see what we mean! Its cosy feel and log burning fires are perfect for those colder months. Alternatively, the sunny beer garden to the side of the pub is the perfect place to enjoy your food and drink during the lighter and brighter months.
- Dogs: Welcome in the bar area
THE WHITE LION - Great Longstone - 5 miles 01629 640252
This old village pub has been converted into a gastro pub with a more modern feel. It serves all the pub classics as well as a range of flatbread pizzas. The snug is the perfect place for walkers and dogs to enjoy.
Dogs: Welcome in the snug
THE ROYAL OAK - Hurdlow - 5 miles 01298 83288
This country pub is located a short jot off the High Peak Trail, serving traditional pub food in a cosy pub atmosphere. This pub is more of a restaurant, with a bar and a main restaurant area, both serving the same menu. The menu is extensive and can be reasonably priced, or expensive depending on what you choose.
We have always enjoyed our meals here, good food and service to match.
- Dogs: Welcome in the bar area
THE FARMYARD INN - Youlgrave - 5 miles 01629 636221
The words we would use to describe this pub are quaint, cosy, warm and snug. On the night of our visit we found this to be a gem of a pub. We visited on a Wednesday night, which is usually pie night. Great food, friendly service and reasonably priced. If you don’t want to be disappointed, make sure you book.
- Dogs: Very welcome