It's About Quality Time

Family gatherings form the heart of our shared experiences and memories. They are the cornerstone of our own holidays in the Peak District, strengthening bonds, creating new memories, and hopefully making some new family traditions along the way!

In the tranquil setting of a holiday, away from the daily grind, families have the opportunity to spend quality time together. It's in these moments of connection and shared stories that a sense of belonging is nurtured.

Remember, the location is just the backdrop to the main event - your family. Whether you're nestled in a cosy cottage in the Peak District or elsewhere, the essence of these gatherings remains the same: creating unforgettable moments with your loved ones. So, when you plan your next holiday, consider the inherent value of these family get-togethers.

Are you planning a special celebration or a memorable get-together with family and friends? Holiday cottages are a great way to ensure you spend quality time with your loved ones in indulgent surroundings. We think Swallow Cottage in Bakewell and Lodge Cottage in Castleton would be perfect for hosting your next trip to the Peak District. With ample space, thoughtful amenities, and many lovely local attractions, our holiday cottages offer an unforgettable experience. Let's dive in to it!

Holiday Cottage Vs Hotel for Family Gatherings

When planning a family gathering, the choice of accommodation can significantly influence the overall experience. Hotels have their plus points, we won't lie! And there are some lovely hotels you can find in the Peak District. But when planning a family get-together, here's why we think holiday cottages can outshine hotels for such occasions:

• Privacy: Unlike hotels, holiday cottages offer you an exclusive space. You can enjoy your family's company without worrying about disturbing or being disturbed by other guests, especially if your games of Monopoly get a little heated!
• Catering Flexibility: With a holiday cottage, you're not confined to set meal times or menus. You have the freedom to cook in the cottage kitchen, explore local eateries, or even order a takeaway. It's all about what works best for your family.
• Cost-Effective: When you're travelling with a large group, holiday cottages can be a more economical choice, especially for families with children of a certain age that might find it awkward or expensive to book multiple adjacent hotel rooms.
• Dog-Friendly: Most hotels won't allow your furry friends to stay! We're proud to offer dog-friendly cottages for well-behaved pups.

So, for a memorable family gathering in one of the UK's best loved National Parks with all the cosy comforts of home, a Derbyshire holiday cottage might be the perfect choice.

Accommodating Larger Groups with Ease

Both Swallow Cottage and Lodge Cottage are designed to accommodate larger groups comfortably. Swallow Cottage can sleep up to 8 people, while Lodge Cottage can host 9 guests.

With ample space, everyone in your group can enjoy their stay without feeling cramped. We've worked hard to make sure every bedroom will be a pleasure to stay in, with no one feeling like someone else has a better room!

Swallow Cottage also features an outdoor social area at the rear of the cottage, a stone-flagged dining room with a rustic table perfect for evening entertaining, and a living room with comfy chairs and log burner.

At Lodge Cottage, you'll find cottage gardens to the rear, a central courtyard, large dining room with leather armchairs beside the fire, and a gorgeously styled living room with squashy sofas.

These amenities help to create the perfect atmosphere for your special gathering.

This makes for a relaxed, fun-filled holiday experience, where everyone can be part of the celebration. Which leads us to...

The Fun of a Family Cottage Holiday

Holiday cottages offer more than just a place to sleep; they provide an opportunity for families to create such great memories together. Here's a few things that makes our cottages so special:

• Cooking Together: Our country kitchens are perfect for family cook-offs or preparing a hearty breakfast together. There's something incredibly satisfying about cooking and eating as a family in a cosy, well-equipped kitchen. Our kids love trying local recipes (or maybe that's just Bakewell puddings and custard).
• Evening Games: After dinner, why not settle down on our squashy sofas for a board game? These shared moments of laughter and friendly competition are the ones you'll remember- but please don't take
• Enjoying the Gardens: Our cottage gardens are the perfect place to relax on a sunny day. Whether it's a leisurely breakfast al fresco, an afternoon of reading, or simply enjoying the beautiful surroundings, these moments of tranquillity are a true holiday luxury.
• Local Adventures: With so much to explore in the local area, you can fill your days with family adventures. From hiking trails up Mam Tor to historic sites like the Bakewell Old House Museum, there's something for everyone.
• Screen-Free Time: A cottage holiday is a great opportunity for kids to take a break from screens and enjoy more traditional pastimes. Whether it's playing in the garden, joining in the board games, or exploring the countryside, they'll be creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Experience the Peak District's Breathtaking Outdoors

The Peak District is renowned for its stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. The Monsal Trail, a popular walking route, is easily accessible from Bakewell. In Castleton, guests can explore walking routes up nearby Mam Tor, Peveril Castle, and several fascinating caves. These outdoor attractions provide the perfect backdrop for your special celebration.

From getting the kids outside enjoying springtime walks through blossoming landscapes to autumnal welly-adventures amidst vibrant foliage, your family trip will always be surrounded by the natural beauty of the Peaks.

The Charm of Traditional Pubs

After a day of exploring with the family, unwind at one of the many traditional pubs that dot the Peak District:

• Unbeatable Atmosphere: Peak District pubs are renowned for their cosy, welcoming atmosphere. After a day of exploring, there's nothing like settling down in a snug corner of a traditional pub.
• Warm Reception: Hospitality is at the heart of these pubs. Expect friendly locals, warm smiles, and a genuine 'make yourself at home' vibe.
• Dog and Muddy-Boot Friendly: Many of these pubs embrace the area's outdoor pursuits. Don't worry about muddy boots or bringing your four-legged friend along. They're more than welcome!
• Close to Home: Some great options are just a stone's throw from our cottages. Ye Olde Nags Head pub, for instance, is literally thirty seconds walk from Lodge Cottage in Castleton. They cater for every type of special event that your family might have gather for, such as anniversaries and birthdays, and the food is fabulous. Check them out here but be sure to book a table during busy summer weekends!
• Delicious Food: The food at these pubs is often a highlight. The Rutland Arms in Bakewell, for example, offers incredible food alongside a dog-friendly bar area. We've tested the Sunday roast dinners and they're fantastic!

So, if you're looking for a place to relax, refuel and revel in the local charm, these traditional pubs are just the ticket for a great family occasion.

Seasonal Events and Attractions

No matter the time of year, the Peak District has something to offer everyone. Explore local seasonal events and attractions to make your family holiday or special get-together even more memorable.

Here are some traditional annual events held in the Peak District:

1. Well Dressing Festivals (Spring-Summer): This is a unique tradition in the Peak District and Derbyshire where wells, springs, or other water sources are decorated with designs created from flower petals. Each village typically holds its own festival on different dates from May to September.
2. Chatsworth Country Fair (Late Summer): This is one of England's most spectacular annual outdoor events held in the Chatsworth House's grounds. Attractions often include a grand ring with various performances, country pursuits and rural crafts, and a variety of trade stands and food stalls.
3. Bakewell Show (Summer): One of the oldest agricultural shows in the UK, this event usually features livestock exhibitions, equestrian events, and horticultural competitions.
4. Buxton International Festival (Summer): This is a celebration of opera, music, and literature taking place in Buxton, attracting internationally renowned performers.
5. Matlock Bath Illuminations (Autumn): A popular event featuring a parade of illuminated and decorated boats on the River Derwent.
6. Christmas Markets and Events (Winter): Various towns in the Peak District hold festive events, including Christmas markets, light switch-ons, and carol services.

Be sure to check with local tourism websites or the official Peak District National Park website for current event listings and exact dates. Let us know if you do attend an event, we'd love to hear your reviews and share them with our community!

Stay With Us

Swallow Cottage and Lodge Cottage in the Peak District are the ideal destinations for special celebrations and get-togethers. With their ability to accommodate larger groups, beautiful amenities, and so close to stunning local attractions, our holiday cottages offer an unparalleled experience.

Visit our booking page to secure your stay in one of our charming cottages. We can't wait to welcome you and your family!