Booking direct for your next quick trip to Alton Towers

This year is starting a little slowly for us at Barks Holiday Cottage, but that's fine because our short breaks are often an 'extra holiday', or a 'quick trip to Alton Towers'. So far there is a change in how our guests are choosing to book their stays with us. We've noticed a pleasing trend: more first time visitors are booking directly with us, bypassing our booking agents. It's pleasing because it's a win-win situation—better for us and better for our guests, ensuring a personal touch from the very first moment.


Direct Booking Advantages:

Booking directly not only offers a more personal experience but also provides the best value for our guests. It's an opportunity for us to understand your needs directly and tailor your stay to your preferences, ensuring that your holiday is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. We do use booking agents Sykes Cottages, but since you have found us here we invite you to continue booking direct with us, the owners.

But is there a Direct Booking Discount?

Hmm, hold a minute, that's too direct a question, making me feel like a politician being put on the spot by a journalist. So look (as politicians always seem to say when on the radio) ...we support our booking agents in everything they do for us and are advertising the same prices as them 😇. Are you now like me, after whatever that politician just said, muttering to myself that they haven't actually answered the question. Which always makes me come to a whole unsaid conclusion 😂😁

So ... if you would like to contact us and check the availability on your preferred dates, we will do our best to make sure you get the best service by booking direct.

Why not come and enjoy the bluebells? They are plentiful and beginning to look superb.

For the latest availability please contact us at barkshc@gmail.com

Holiday cottage: nearby restaurant and bar at Whiston Hall

Don't switch off by the mention of golf, really this post is about a fabulous local bar and restaurant, within walking distance.

Yesterday I played a golf match at Whiston Hall. There were 14 players a side followed by a buffet. My team, Denstone, was narrowly beaten but the amazing hospitality at Whiston made up for it.  So while I was busy tucking into a delicious buffet, I asked for a menu to put into the holiday cottage.

Whiston Hall is a 9 hole golf course, wedding venue and bar/restaurant. It is also within walking distance of Barks Holiday Cottage. It's a decent walk, a regular route across the fields that I take with my dog, which makes a very pleasant early evening stroll to take in the sunset, glass of wine in hand. There are outdoor tables and a very pleasant bar with a spectacular view.

For those that would enjoy the golf opportunity, Whiston can be booked to pay and play. Not sure if it is £15 or £20 per 18 holes, but it is that sort of fee. It is 9 holes with two different tees to make each 9 a bit different. The slope rating suggests it is easy, and whilst I agree it is not long, I really don't think it is that easy. Anyway, it is worth a visit if you like a knock. And the views are stunning, even if your golf isn't!

For the latest availability please contact us.

A Tribute to little Pickle Valentine: Snowdrops in our little Nature Reserve

In the land surrounding Barks Holiday Cottage's we have created a little nature reserve. At this time of year the snowdrops begins to emerge, heralding the early whispers of spring. This enchanting display is not just a natural spectacle; it's a tribute to a little soul that left paw prints on our hearts. Pickle Valentine, a beloved companion and a friend to many of our guests, found her final resting place among the tranquility of our nature reserve. Born on Valentine's Day, our little white terrier's spirit is commemorated with the blossoming of snowdrops around her birthday, transforming the area into a living memorial.

The snowdrops at Barks Cottage are more than just flowers; they symbolize renewal, resilience, and the enduring love between humans and their furry companions. Many of our holiday cottage guests bring their four-legged companions, so will totally understand. February is normally a quiet time at the holiday cottage, but anyone booking for some winter walking is invited to wander through this special part of our grounds, where each snowdrop serves as a reminder of Pickle's gentle spirit and the joy she brought to all who knew her.

Our little nature reserve, one of our commitments to conservation, offers guests a moment of reflection and connection with nature's delicate beauty. As these snowdrops bloom, we remember the joy that Pickle brought to our lives and the beauty of life cycles in nature.

Join us this season to experience the serene beauty of our snowdrop garden, a heartfelt tribute in the midst of our little sanctuary. It's a place where memories bloom as brightly as the flowers, and where the spirit of Pickle Valentine lives on in every delicate petal.

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.

Short self catering breaks

Barks Holiday Cottage is both near Alton Towers theme park and the gorgeous Churnet Valley and Peak District so it is ideal for short breaks. 

Alton Towers  - Families grab some action-packed, thrilling adventure at the Alton Towers theme park just a few minutes drive away (less than 3 miles from us to ST10 4DB) then come back to some peace and quiet to restore their adrenaline levels again.

Walking, dogs and scenery - immerse yourself in the idyllic countryside of the Churnet Valley with gorgeous walks straight from the front door of the holiday cottage. You and the doggo can walk for miles in the local woods and tracks, barely even crossing a road. Barks is also an ideal base for exploring the rest of the Peak District.

Treat yourself - to add a touch of indulgence to your break, there are some fabulous tea rooms, gastro pubs and restaurants. Our guest information folder has loads of information to help you choose the treat to suit your mood. If you want to stay in and put your feet up after a busy day, it's easy to order a takeaway from one of the local providers.  Supermarket deliveries are also an option, and the kitchen is well equipped if you want to create something delicious to enjoy with your favourite tipple. 

Long and short breaks available.  If you can grab a few days away, just message us about self-catering availability at Barks Holiday Cottage.

July short break last minute availability

Arrival Sunday 16th July:

5 nights £575

3 nights £450

3 night weekends

Thursday 20th July - 3 nights £575
Thursday 27th July - 3 nights £610

School summer holidays

School summer holiday short break options available. Please enquire - current availability is marked in green.

Information correct as at 10th July.

Escape to the countryside this July

An invitation to nature lovers to explore the hidden gem that is the Churnet Valley, some of the finest walking countryside in England. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors and feel your senses rejuvenate.

Four-legged friends are welcome at Barks Holiday Cottage and there are lots of places for good doggies to stretch their legs. Whether you're seeking peace and tranquility, stunning views or a quiet getaway, the Churnet Valley has it in spades. And Barks is ideally placed to experience it at its best.

Don't miss out on the chance to book a last minute getaway at Barks Holiday cottage for pet-friendly self-catering. It's time to enjoy a break from it all, with your beloved doggo.

Wonderful walking

What a morning! Took doggo for a very long walk because it was such a sparkling morning. Wildlife was posing for us everywhere. Three roe deer stood and looked at us really close up, but it seemed sensible to hold Stormy's collar rather than grapple for my camera. The buzzard was unconcerned and jumped clumsily from branch to branch while I unlocked my phone and took this rubbish snap. 

It's such amazing walking country, and I especially love this time of the year.

The holiday cottage is open for direct bookings and short lets, but not available via our booking agents until spring. So if you like a winter hike come to the Churnet Valley and explore!

For the latest availability please drop us a line.

barkshc@gmail.com

Holiday Cottage with open fire

The Chimney Sweep has been today and carried out all the safety checks, including testing the carbon monoxide alarm. 

It may be a surprise to learn that we also have a fire safety policy and have undertaken a risk assessment. This is just an example of the sort of thing that we do because we take seriously the responsibility of running holiday accommodation.

So that was just a little peak behind the scenes of life as Holiday Cottage owner.

For the latest availability please check online or contact us. We are now taking bookings for October half term and Alton Towers Scarefest. 

Green and pleasant

I went for a walk locally yesterday and can't  quite believe how lush and green is the countryside of the Churnet Valley compared to only 25 miles east around Derby and Nottingham. That slightly frustrating period of a daily drizzle is suddenly worth it. Hopefully this means local woods and gardens will cope with this heat wave. 

Our current holiday cottage guests are making the most of the sunny terrace and parasol as well as the benches in the little nature reserve. We were chatting with them and all agreed we're loving this August weather and the pleasure of an evening stroll through the cool woods.

For the latest availability please check online or contact us. We currently have holiday cottage availability in August. Explore the Peak District and Churnet Valley. 

Walkies from the holiday cottage

We so enjoyed having Albie and his owner staying here for a couple of weeks. On their last day on Thursday we all went for a lovely walk together in the afternoon sunshine. We had been through the woods and were heading back downhill through an open field.  "Albie has impeccable manners", I say, because he is being very polite to my senior lady.

Then we go through a field gate and he finds the muddiest puddle ever and is very pleased with himself as he achieves maximum mud coverage. 

Albie's owner is hoarse with remonstrations, but he gives that puppy look that says this is just too good to miss, however cross she gets. Aww, he's only 9 months old!

And we have an outside tap! Bad luck Albie 🐶


For the latest availability please check online

Coffee shop walks

At this time of year the media is all about health and wellbeing. We are being told to walk 10k steps and give up alcohol etc etc! Roll on spring when the story changes. Don't get me wrong, I really like walking (and a glass of wine!!).

If you need an incentive to do some walking, then a coffee shop is the answer. In the summer, one that also sells great ice cream can be a winner with the whole family, including the dog. Our countryside cafes have lovely outdoor seating and also sell dog ice cream. If only your dog could read this blog it would be booking 😀🐕🐕🐕🍦

A step in the right direction? #motivation

Lovely walk in Churnet Valley, over the bridge from the Ramblers Retreat cafe.

A stroll along the Caldon Canal, from Hetty's tea room to the Black Lion.

We have destination tea / coffee shops in all directions for long and short walkies. And pubs, of course.

Off season breaks

Walking from the doorstep at Barks Holiday Cottage, Churnet Valley

Off season short breaks are becoming increasingly popular as an entertaining getaway. If you can't decide between a spa retreat or a country cottage break here is a possible answer - do both at Barks Holiday Cottage.

• Alton Towers spa which has entry to the sauna and relaxation rooms
• country retreat, open fire, great views
• walk in the Peak District and Churnet Valley - great walks from the doorstep
• lovely pubs and restaurants in the local area.

Please check the latest availability and book online directly with us

  

Getting organised last minute for Christmas 2019

As yet we don't have a Christmas booking. I have just checked back on last year and the booking then was last minute too.  We have a change over to do today when our current guests depart, so once we've finished coffee we'll start rootling about for the box of decorations.

The cottage is available for 4 nights from 23rd December for £470. There is some flexibility in those dates (however we are already booked for New Year).

We can also be very flexible as to how much we decorate the cottage for our Christmas guests. We'll put a tree on the terrace and we generally do some indoor decorations, unless asked not to, and give our Christmas guests a box of chocolates.

Please email or ring us to check Christmas 2019 self catering availability

Is it autumn? Peak walking season?

Even though everywhere is green and lush, there is the hint of autumn in the air. Especially in the mornings and evenings. This is my favourite time of year for walking in the Churnet Valley. Soon colour will appear in the woodlands and there might even be those breathtaking early frosts. Not too soon on that, my bean row won't cope!

So we have moved the holiday cottage into autumn mode too. The family room is now laid out as a twin room as its default setting. One twin, one double. With the children back at school this week, the guests we have booked in for September are adult groups or couples. Probably with a dog.

Because it is peak walking season, and where better to walk than round here, in the Churnet Valley woodlands and the hills of the Peak District?

Is it walkies time?

For the latest availability please check online or contact us.

Last minute holiday cottage Peak District and Alton Towers

When we have last minute gaps between bookings we often put them on our Facebook page /barks.holiday.cottage so please check there or email us 

Mini break offers include a chilled bottle of Prosecco on arrival.

Cottage sleeps 5 in two bedrooms, pet dog welcome.

And don't forget, if you want us to look after your dog while you and the family go to Alton Towers please book that in straight away 🐶

Barks self-catering holiday cottage - last minute deals
self catering, sleeps 5 in two bedrooms

Suitable for short holidays in the Peak District and to Alton Towers. Ideal for a couple for a walking holiday, possibly with their dog. Perfect for a family to spend a day or two at Alton Towers, maybe flexing your Merlin pass. Alton Towers is only 3 miles away, hidden out of the way in the valley and woodland.

Last minute weekend break in the countryside

AUGUST - SPARKLING SPECIAL OFFER ... 

How about a last minute break in the countryside? What would work for you - a romantic break for two or a family escape to Alton Towers? Email or ring us to check availability and reserve your break.

There are lots of things to do. Alton Towers is the most obvious, but there are gorgeous walks, tea rooms and pubs. Our local towns have much to offer, with lots of shops specialising in antiques and collectibles.

And in the evening, you could cook something, better still you could order in or go out to one of the local eateries. See how you feel after a busy day...

Special offer

If you book a short break directly with us as a result of seeing this post we will put a bottle of fizz in the fridge for you. Email us on barks@btconnect.com to book this special offer.

  

A wet week in the Peak District

No big surprise, but it is very wet round here after a week of rain. The river Churnet is in full flow and about to burst its banks. Normally I would feel slightly guilty that our holiday guests were not seeing the area in its full glory.

We have a lovely crew that have come down from Bridlington and guess what... they chose Barks Holiday Cottage because it has an open fire. It's June, so I was surprised that was such an important criterion when selecting a self-catering holiday cottage in summer. If it had been a last minute booking I might not have been so surprised.

Anyway, they chose Barks because it is all on one floor and has an open fire. One of the ladies has restricted mobility so it is perfect for her. She hasn't been able to go out very much with her companions, but has stayed in the cottage and enjoyed a roaring fire and the views across the Churnet Valley.

Self catering holiday cottage, single storey accommodation.

July opening times at Alton Towers

If you are planning a trip to Alton Towers and need to juggle opening times, travelling times and booking accommodation, I hope you find this information useful.

July opening times at Alton Towers

And here is a tip - The theme park is enjoying peak season in July, particularly with traffic approaching from Uttoxeter and A50 in the mornings. Midweek there are school and uni trips, with lots of coaches. Weekends the roads are noticeably busy with cars queuing through the villages at arrival and departure times.

Beat the queues when you stay at Barks holiday cottage which is 2.6 miles away and enables you to approach from the quieter direction,

For the latest availability please check online or contact us.

Single storey, ground floor, self catering

We are having such an interesting year so far when it comes to taking bookings. Everyone is booking directly with us and not through the big booking agents. We love direct bookings - better for us, better for you!

We have recently taken a couple of bookings because people were particularly looking for single storey, ground floor accommodation in a country cottage. I can confirm, the cottage meets that description.

If you are looking for a bungalow in the countryside just drop us a line with your booking requirements and we can get your dates reserved straight away. Email us on barks@btconnect.com or phone 01538 703436. Many thanks

Barks Cottage - single storey self-catering

Christmas at the Holiday Cottage

Christmas availability at Barks Holiday Cottage from 22nd December

What's your idea of a perfect Christmas? Some people love having all the relatives round, despite all the work that goes into offering hospitality with all the trimmings. Others want to get away, pretend it's not happening at all. Me? I'm probably moving from the first of these, heading slowly towards the latter!

For a number of years the holiday cottage was booked by family members coming up to visit local friends. They could just about walk across the fields for their family get together. I was slightly nervous at the idea of them staggering back across the moorland after a few glasses of Christmas cheer, but it seemed to work out OK.

This year our booking agents took a booking for Barks Holiday Cottage back in August for a couple and their dog. That's organised, I thought, well done them! Very, very unfortunately, they weren't quite organised enough to take out holiday insurance. This bit is rather sad - one of them has been involved in a bad accident and so they can no longer go away at Christmas. Their deposit, taken by the agents, is non refundable which reminds me to stress the importance of taking out insurance on UK holidays, something people seem not to want to do.

Anyway, the cottage is back on the market for Christmas. It is available for 5 days from 22nd December for £475. There is some flexibility in those dates (however we are already booked for New Year).

We can also be very flexible as to how much we decorate the cottage for our Christmas guests. This year we are thinking we might put a tree on the terrace. We generally do some indoor decorations, unless asked not to, and give our guests a box of chocolates.