Big House Wedding Venues

Reviews

What our customers say about their holidays

• Bernard - Verified booking

  We booked this cottage near Kirk Ireton as soon as 12th April was named as the date restrictions on self-catering holidays would be lifted, so that we could at least meet our new grandson in his parents' garden in Derby!

  The cottage is in beautiful surroundings and was exactly as described, although the glass tables in the photos have now been replaced with scubbed pine. Given the restrictions, we self-catered every day and the kitchen made this a pleasure - plenty of space and well equipped. We did not use the dishwasher or washing machine. Hot water was piping hot. The bed being close to the wall is, in reality, only an issue for about two minutes per day, i.e. when you are getting in and out of bed! However, we are both slim - it might be more problematic for others. This property is a long way from the nearest main road so is very peaceful and this, combined with the very comfortable bed, meant that we slept well. The broadband signal was very good and we were able to watch TV live on-line with none of the buffering we experience at home. Beautifully furnished throughout with some interesting art on the wall, ceramics in the display cabinets and other nice pieces dotted around. The owner was very helpful in giving us permission to cross his fields straight onto the Carsington Water Circuit path. Only critisism would be the strength of lighting in the kitchen and the sitting room could do with a proper reading light placed behind the sofa. We enjoyed our stay at Garden House and would definitely consider returning. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay.

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• Jenny - Verified booking

  What a charming little holiday cottage, equipped with everything we needed for a self sufficient stay.

  Owner Ken lives onsite but the barn is completely private and enclosed within its own garden, with a new summerhouse which was really warm even on a cold day. Ken is about the friendliest man we've met and is always able to give advice on walks, local sights etc. The welcoming pub is within a few hundred yards stumbling distance and the landlord even remembered our drinks order when we emerged from a long day of walking, two days after our first visit! The cottage is perfectly situated close to Dovedale which can be walked to directly from the front door. There is a generous stack of fuel for the logburner which is no extra charge. Cottage appears small in the photos but this is part of its charm, you need to be willing to compromise on space but it is perfect for a couple and the comfy chairs were huge and cosy. We were able to use the dining table as our cooking space and even baked fresh bread daily, had a roast dinner etc so had no problems. Photo on the description was slightly out of date as the TV is now a larger flatscreen with freeview/netflix etc. All in all a lovely relaxing week and a great base for local national trust, walks (and brewery tours), thanks for the stay Ken!

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• Jenny - Verified booking

  Hosts were friendly enough and provided info on the local area.

  Plenty of leaflets and suggestions available. Considering the remoteness and lack of a shop open in the afternoons a welcome hamper such as milk, tea, coffee,, bread would have been beneficial and is the norm at the countless properties previously stayed in. The cottage itself was very nice and decorated to a high standard. Some of the TV stations had interference but access to netflix was a nice compensation. Listing refered to a DVD player but i dont think there was one. The bed very comfortable with decent quality bedding that felt nice and soft. Access was not great on the far side yet more room could be provided if the cupboard which is just used for Christmas decor be removed as this would allow for the bed to be pulled out a little more from the wall. Basic facilities like a hairdryer missing which are pretty standard in 5 star rated cottages. Would advise attention to the doors as stiff locks problematic especially the door leading from the lounge to the patio / airer area. One of the best locations we have stayed in for walking and beautiful scenery. Plenty to do and see, would highly recommend the area.

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• Liz - Verified booking

  We arrived after a journey on the motorway in the pouring rain and were delighted when we came into a lovely warm and cosy kitchen.

  The house was easy to find and well signposted along an unmade track. The cottage is in it's own plot and although shares the drive with another property was not overlooked at all. The views are amazing and we were very lucky with the weather which meant we could enjoy the lovely autumn colours. The cottage is very well equipped with everything you needed for self-catering - it is also tastefully decorated which makes it feel more like home than a holiday cottage. We were very close to Carsington Water and enjoyed the walks and wildlife there - although the Visitor Centre was very busy on the Sunday due to half-term - we took sandwiches and coffee to avoid the queues. Close to Chatsworth, Buxton and Dovedale and worth the drive to Calke Abbey for a visit to an un-stately home. Would definitely recommend this holiday cottage and would visit again.

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• Martin - Verified booking

  Stunning cottage, great location.

  Coach and Horses pub is literally a minute away on foot and does good food and good beer. There is everything you need in the cottage, including a desk fan which was extremely useful when I was there. The cottage and the garden are immaculately kept and are great place to relax. The Tissington trail is only a 15 minute walk away, making walking to Ashbourne a nice steady 3 mile stroll along a flat well maintained path. The owners of the cottage live next door, and are around if you need them but leave you alone to enjoy your holiday. When I arrived I as met by Ken who told me all I needed to know about the cottage. Overall a beautiful place to stay and relax, couldn’t ask for more. Got a feeling I’ll be going back soon!

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