Guests say
Shire Cottage is a charming and characterful retreat set in beautiful Derbyshire countryside, ideal for peaceful getaways and exploring local attractions. Guests consistently praise its cosy atmosphere, comfortable beds, and well-equipped kitchen. The location is perfect for walks along the canal and wildlife spotting, with many enjoying visits from badgers and the presence of horses nearby. The owner is friendly and helpful, and thoughtful touches such as welcome refreshments are appreciated, though not guaranteed. Some minor issues with soundproofing and maintenance are noted, but overall, guests have memorable and enjoyable stays.
Multiple reviews highlight the cottage as very clean, with fresh bedding and towels provided. Only one review mentions the property showing signs of needing an upgrade, but cleanliness itself is consistently praised.
The location is frequently described as brilliant, peaceful, and ideal for walks, wildlife, and exploring local sites. Proximity to the canal, countryside, and train station is repeatedly mentioned as a major advantage.
Guests often mention comfortable beds, a cosy atmosphere, and a warm environment even in colder months. Some note noise from neighbouring cottages due to thin walls, but overall comfort is highly rated.
The cottage is described as well-equipped, with a good kitchen, towels, bedding, and cleaning items provided. Some guests mention minor maintenance issues such as the oven, windows, doors, and soundproofing, but these do not significantly detract from the overall experience.
Many guests appreciated thoughtful touches such as fresh milk, tea, coffee, biscuits, and blankets on arrival. Please note that these gifts are not guaranteed for every stay.
About this property
Enjoy both lake and river fishing on-site at this property. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot birds in the nearby nature reserve. Badgers visit the farmyard every evening included a rare, white individual..
Ground Floor:
Living room: Freeview TV, DVD Player, Electric Fire
Kitchen/dining room: (3 Steps), Electric Cooker, Microwave, Fridge
Shower Room: Cubicle Shower, Toilet
First Floor:
Bedroom 1: Double (4ft 6in) Bed
Bedroom 2: 2 x Single (3ft) Beds
Bedroom 3: Single (3ft) Bed.
Gas central heating, electricity, bed linen, towels and Wi-Fi included. Cot, highchair and stairgate available on request. External laundry room with washing machine (shared with other property on-site). Patio with garden furniture. Fishing on-site (free of charge). Bike store. Private parking for 4 cars. No smoking.. Leashaw Farm is a fabulous setting and abundant with wildlife, with less common species of birds and badgers, foxes and water voles. Nestling in Derbyshire, on a small working farm, Shire Cottage (ref UK10035) and Nightingale Cottage (ref UKC1570) date back to the 1600s. They have a commanding position off the beaten track in one of the most delightful valleys, which once formed part of Florence Nightingale’s country estate.
The historic Cromford Canal and the beautiful River Derwent pass through the farmland. Whatstandwell is pivotal in the designated World Heritage Site of the Derwent Valley. There are many fine walks straight from the door of this charming cottage and it is only a short drive to Matlock Bath with its famous illuminations and Gullivers Kingdom, the National Tramway Museum, Carsington Water, Chatsworth House, Haddon Hall, Alton Towers and not forgetting the old market towns of Bakewell and Ashbourne, and of course the fabulous Derbyshire Dales.
Fishing is available free of charge in the owners’ private pond, which has tench and crucian carp, and a ½ mile stretch of the River Derwent where you will find trout and grayling. The Peak District National Park is famous for providing glorious scenery and is a must for ramblers to the most serious walkers. Once you have visited Leashaw Farm and sampled all the delights these cottages have to offer, you’ll never want to leave. Shop ¾ mile, pub and restaurant 1 mile.
Shire Cottage (ref UK10035) and Nightingale Cottage (ref UKC1570) can be booked together to accommodate up to 11 guests.
Free WiFi
There are steps within the property.
Suitable for up to 1 pet
Nearby points of interest
- Gulliver's Kingdom Matlock
- Dovedale
- Lumsdale Valley
- Thor's Cave
Reviews (23)
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Penny Barkas
The cottage was comfortable and had everything you need for a week away. The location was great for exploring South Derbyshire, and with a lovely canal-side walk directly outside the door!The owner was approachable and friendly, and there if you needed him. He also encourages the badgers to feed in the farmyard at night which was magical to see!The only downside for me was a lack of private outdoor space - there is a small patio, but it's not screened from the next door cottage and its outdoor space. However, our little dog was able to roam freely because the other visitors were fine with her wandering about!Overall, a lovely place to spend some time away.
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June Smith
Lovely cottage, location, views, fishing and of course the badgers. Owners very helpful, and friendly. 2nd time visited and definitely be back again.
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Confirmed Guest
Wonderful cottage, full of charm and character, well equiped, perfect location for walks to lots of destinations, (criche tramways and cromford) . 20 minutes along the canal to whatstandwell train station for matlock or belper or beyond. Everything we expected and more. Will return. Thank you. 😊