The Orchards self-catering cottage is nestled peacefully on the outskirts of the beautiful village of Ilam, in the heart of the Peak District National Park, midway between Leek and Ashbourne, with breathtaking views.
The Orchards lies in a lovely rural setting. Surrounded by meadows strewn with three kinds of orchids, and with bluebells carpeting the woods nearby, there are amazing views towards Dovedale and beyond.
If you are a walker, this is paradise. Riverside strolls, moorland rambles, hikes up the hills, rock-climbing and everything in between. There are miles of scenic tarmac trails too. Diverse birdlife from redstarts to ravens.
Cycle trails with bike hire locally. Paintball, quad-biking, sailing, windsurfing – all nearby.
Ilam Hall (N.T.) one mile away offers family activities throughout the year, e.g. treasure hunts and nest-box making.
Visit Bakewell for your puddings, walk in the footsteps of Mr Darcy at Chatsworth House or Jane Eyre at Haddon Hall. Visit the Sheepdog Trials or the local fete. Spend an evening at the Opera House in Buxton or a day at Uttoxeter Races.
And of course, Alton Towers is just 9 miles away.
Price Range – from £498 to £850 and last minute bookings may be discounted – please ask.
– Living Room, warm and welcoming with cosy log fire
– Sunny, oak-floored dining room and well-equipped kitchen
– Three bedrooms to sleep 6 people (n.b. full-sized bunk beds in one room)
– Heated throughout by storage radiators and double-glazed for your comfort
– Garage for bikes or car, plus parking
Please note:
For more information, to make a booking or to check availability, please contact The Orchards – they’ll be delighted to help you!
A beautiful Dovedale Walk takes in the most breathtaking views of this stunning part of the Peak District. It crosses the famous stepping stones in Dovedale, walks on shady paths alongside the River Dove as it cuts between towering limestone crags, tracks through the grassy slopes of Hall Dale, strewn with wildflowers, and passes through the picture-perfect village of Ilam, before returning to the start point in Dovedale. Although there are magnificent views along the way, this route does not feel like a tough one and is a great one for the whole family to enjoy, maybe with a picnic en route.
For the most part this Dovedale Walk uses clearly-marked trails and paths, with some country lanes. Be aware that you do need to cross the Dovedale Stepping Stones at the start of the walk. There are a few inclines, some with steps. The route requires you to walk on country lanes (with no footpaths) for a short distance. The walk starts and ends at a car park (parking fees apply), at which there are public toilets. There is a tea room and a pub in Ilam. Allow 3-4 hours to complete this walk at a moderate pace, allowing for rest stops to take in the views.