Last minute or plan ahead?

I am naturally a last minute sort of person. Essays at uni and report deadlines for work only received the attention they deserved a day or two before the deadline. But some decades on, and last minute travel plans are causing me a bit more stress than they used to. I have been persuaded by dear son to jet off to the Alps before Christmas, leaving other half in charge of dog, Christmas card writing and holiday cottage. Are you thinking it's a lot of effort to go to in a bid to get out of writing Xmas cards? I feel a bit guilty because I am pretty certain that the personal messages won't be included in the cards this year. 

Anyway, for those of you who prefer to plan ahead, we are now taking 2024 bookings for the holiday cottage. We are in the midst of changing booking agents, so it may look like all dates in the summer are blocked off - but rest assured, direct bookings can still be made. Just drop us an email.

Self catering holiday cottage for Peak District and Alton Towers, sleeps 5, available for 2024 summer short breaks (from 3 nights), weekly holidays, and off-season longer lettings. For the latest availability please contact us.

Old boots

I enjoy looking at this old boot which sits on the wall outside a cottage on one regular dog walks. The other day I was chatting with the old chap who lives there and he told me the boot belonged to an old miner friend of his. I tend to forget that there was a coal mining industry in Cheadle and North Staffordshire.

There is such a fascinating industrial history in this area. From gritty mining and milling to artistic architecture and silk embroidery. It's all left a legacy in the area to be enjoyed today - canals, mills, packhorse trails, beautiful buildings and many stories. 

Walking is one of the best ways to access some of these places and stories. I honestly think for the variety of walks, this area has to be one of the best in the country. 

Put your old boots on and start your walking break right from the front door of Barks Holiday Cottage. 

For the latest availability please check online or contact us.

Winter cottage rental

In the winter we take longer bookings of 21 to 28 days. The maximum length that any single booking can be is 28 days (so as not to affect our status as holiday accommodation)

The cottage is fully furnished so ideal for a short let for those moving house or working locally. We can be flexible in how the rooms are laid out. We have 3 single beds and a double bed.

• Gas CH.
• Open fire.
• Heating and fuel are not supplied for longer lets.
• Sheets, duvets and towels are supplied.
• Hairdryer.
• TV - large digital TV.
• Microwave.
• Dishwasher.
• Fridge-freezer.
• Washing machine - available for winter bookings 21 to 28 days only.
• Wifi - not superfast broadband but good enough to stream TV favourites.
• Parking for 2 cars.
• Pets welcome: we accept dogs - please check that the situation regarding Pets is acceptable to you.

hello@barks-holiday-cottage.co.uk

01538 703163

Last minute Spring holiday cottage, Peak District and Churnet Valley

We have a change over at the holiday cottage tomorrow and then the rest of April currently is available.

Barks Holiday Cottage is perfect for walking in the Churnet Valley and the Peak District and is pet friendly.

The spa at Alton Towers is excellent and only a few minutes away. The local towns of Cheadle, Ashbourne and Leek have much to offer - each is different. Antiques, heritage, dining and snacking, shopping...

Please enquire: barks@btconnect.com or call 01538 703436
Check latest availability and book online