Peak District Cottage Stay
For our recent trip to the Peak District, we managed to secure a last minute booking at Wharf Cottage - one of many holiday homes in the family-run Foxtwood Cottages. It was a charming retreat that offered a perfect blend of comfort and natural beauty.
Nestled in the serene countryside near the Churnet Valley, this cottage provided an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
First Impressions
Upon arrival, we were immediately taken back by the picturesque setting of Wharf Cottage.
The traditional cottages, complemented by well-maintained gardens, and a sizeable fishing lake, all set a welcoming tone. We were quick to eye-up all the outdoor activities we will be doing in the evening.
Interior Comforts
Stepping inside, the cottage exuded a homely and inviting atmosphere. The living area was decorated well, featuring comfortable seating (which we discovered reclined!) and a rustic charm that made it feel like a home away from home.
The kitchen was well-equipped with modern appliances, making dinner times simple and quick, which is definitely what we needed after a busy, active day
The bedrooms were equally comfortable, offering restful nights after days spent exploring the countryside. The master room had a large comfy bed, and views of the garden which looked out on to the canal.
Time Spent Outdoors
One of the highlights of Wharf Cottage was its outdoor space. The private garden provides a serene spot to enjoy morning coffee.
For those interested in exploring, the nearby canal offered scenic walks, and the private lake opposite the cottage was active with fish - so much so, my partner was annoyed he left his rods at home.
There were Kayaks, a Ping Pong table, Swingball and a large Connect4 - just to name a few things. All of which were enjoyed in an evening, keeping us busy and bringing out our dreadfully competitive sides. Oh, and my 24 year old self couldn’t resist having a bounce on the large trampoline.
Local Attractions
The cottage’s location served as an excellent base for discovering the charms of the Peak District.
On our first day, we were driving up from our homes in Wiltshire. We stopped off at Trentham Monkey forest, (the UKs only monkey walkthrough) before carrying on up to the impressive Luds Church walk.
Day two - A short drive led us to the historic town of Bakewell, where of course we stopped off at THE Original Cherry Bakewell Shop. After getting a coffee from a small, independent shop we continued on up to Baslow Edge. Unfortunately there were no fluffy cows at this time but the views were still great.
The last stop was Speedwell Cavern, an underground boat tour. This was a must-do for us as we’ve never done anything quite like it before, and we were not disappointed.
We stopped in Leek on the way back to the cottage for a chippy dinner, which was a good finishing touch to the day.
Final Thoughts
Our stay at Wharf Cottage was nothing short of delightful. The combination of comfortable accommodations, beautiful surroundings, and convenient access to local attractions made it a memorable experience.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or an active holiday exploring the countryside, Wharf Cottage is a destination worth considering.