Hello fellow EV Owners

We've seen a surge in eco-friendly visitors recently, and it's all thanks to having an EV charger at Barks Holiday Cottage! Our self-catering accommodation includes the convenience of charging your electric vehicle right on-site.

Whether you’re visiting Alton Towers or exploring the beautiful Peak District, you can relax knowing your car is taken care of. Barks Cottage is ideally situated just 2.6 miles from Alton Towers and 5 miles from the Peak District National Park, making it the perfect base for your family holiday.

Book direct with us and you and your family can enjoy a hassle-free stay with all the modern amenities, including our EV charger.

We look forward to welcoming you and your eco-friendly ride!

For the latest availability please check online or contact us.

Discover our self-catering bungalow in glorious countryside

Barks Holiday Cottage - single storey bungalow, sleeps 5

Among the lovely feedback we've received over the years, a significant number of guests have expressed their preference for single storey, ground-floor accommodation. The reasons vary—from the ease of access to the simplicity of having everything on one level. It seems that single storey accommodation is particularly appreciated by those with mobility concerns, families with young children, and also those with pet dogs.

We're pleased to confirm that Barks Holiday Cottage fits this bill perfectly. Our cottage is a single storey, bungalow-style self-catering accommodation nestled in the heart of the countryside. It combines the greater accessibility and comfort of bungalow living with the charm and tranquility of a country cottage, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a peaceful retreat without the worry of stairs or the disquiet of being on a different floor.

Looking for single storey accommodation in the Countryside?

If a bungalow in the countryside sounds like your ideal getaway, we're here to make it happen. Whether you're planning a family holiday, a romantic escape, or a tranquil solo adventure, Barks Holiday Cottage offers the perfect setting. With everything conveniently located on one level, you can enjoy the ease and comfort of single storey living while soaking up the beauty of the surrounding countryside.

If you would like to know more about the bungalow or level of accessibility it might be best to have a chat. Reach out to us directly with your booking requirements. You can email us at barkshc@gmail.com, and we'll answer your queries and get your reservation sorted when you're ready.

For the latest availability please check online or 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.

Dog walk in the woods

Yesterday Stormy and I went for one of my usual circuits around the woods and fields. We walked round a bend in the path and there was another dog walker. It took me a moment to realise that it was our holiday guests, David and his lovely dog Millie. Having been taken a bit by surprise, my first instinct was to get my dog Stormy under control. Stormy is fine with other dogs, but the day before he had not had a friendly welcome from a terrier, who's stressed-out owner then hurled abuse at James. I didn't want a repeat of that trauma, but I needn't have worried. Millie is a sweetie and Stormy is a simple soul, so they both waited patiently next to each other while David and I enjoyed a relaxed chat. I like a jolly catch up with our guests.

For the latest availability please check online or contact us.

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. 

Scarefest at Alton Towers

As we move into the second half of the school summer holidays we start being asked about holiday cottage availability for October half term and Scarefest. Such a great time of year around here. 

Update - Scarefest and October half term 

A cancellation means we have a Scarefest break available for £525 arriving Friday 22nd October and departing Tuesday 26th.  

Dog sitting is available for families wishing to visit Alton Towers.

And looking further ahead into November, the Alton Towers fireworks weekend is available for £375.

For the latest availability please check online or contact us.

Fancy an Alton Towers self-catering Spa weekend?

Banish the cold - how about an Alton Towers self-catering Spa Break to warm you up?
At Barks holiday cottage you'll lots and lots of warmth and comfort during the winter season: Open fires, underfloor heating, central heating, electric blankets and freshly baked cakes as part of your warm welcome. Add in the Alton Towers Spa - sauna, steam room, pool, footbaths, relaxation rooms (I love the heated tile recliners) and lots of extra treatment options to add to the indulgence.

With this idea there is no chilly pinch in your toes or your wallet:
2 night winter break at Barks Holiday Cottage £185
entry to the spa from £10 for 4 hours - £18 weekend and £10 midweek
Bring your own champagne for some fireside indulgence . . .

It might be cold outside and the Alton Towers theme park is closed until Feb half term week but there is warmth & comfort in abundance.

Is Barks self catering holiday accommodation near Alton Towers ? Yes - just 2.6 miles away! I checked on my way back from the Spa this week.

Enquire now about taking Barks holiday cottage for your summer Alton Towers and Peak District family holiday.  01538 703436
3 nights £295 - perfect for 2 whole days at Alton Towers
7 nights £450 - max out at Alton Towers and have time to take in the scenery, the local shopping, the zoo, the Opera House. . .

Churnet Valley Walks

Barks Holiday Cottage accommodation near Alton Towers is also perfect as a cosy base for a weekend of walking in the Churnet Valley.

I walk down into the Churnet Valley everyday taking my son to school, and then the dogs and I walk back up the steep valley sides through the most magnificent woodland and open countryside.  The exercise is good for the heart, the views are good for the soul. 

This week there has been enough snow that we have sledged to school, which is handy because even the 4x4s were slipping on the untreated road.

Booking a holiday cottage. Tip 3: Choose the right-sized property

Barks self-catering holiday accommodation in the Churnet Valley - ideally situated for Alton Towers fun and Peak District countryside. 01538 703436. barks@btconnect.com

3. Choose the right sized property
Think about the number of bedrooms and bathrooms you'll need and check whether any of the beds are sofa beds.  Is it practical for a member of your party to sleep in the lounge?

Barks - we sleep up to 5 all in proper beds. We have a double bed and 3 singles.  There are 2 bedrooms with flexibility as to how the beds are arranged.  There is also a cot if required. 

NB There is also a separately accessed double room with en-suite that can be made available if you need extra stand-alone space e.g for a couple of nights visit from grandparents.  Additional fees applicable, please enquire.

If your party is very large, we know other people in the area with holiday cottages that can accommodate large groups and would suit several families holidaying together.

Booking a self-catering holiday cottage - tip 1 set a budget

I came across these tips for booking a self-catering Holiday Cottage (prepared by Travelsupermarket) and have pleasure sharing them with you, with a few explanatory notes relating to Barks Holiday Cottage near Alton Towers.  All 7 tips will be blogged over the course of the next few days.

1. Set a budget
Taking a break in the UK is often thought of as the cheaper option, but with more and more luxury cottages entering the rental market, it's easy to overspend.  Also, think about the petrol costs for the journey getting to your destination.

Barks adds - and consider the drive time if you have children on board!  To get to Alton Towers takes:

·         3 hours from London

·         4.5 from Glasgow.  (So if you were thinking of travelling to Scotland save yourself that extra 4.5 hours driving and holiday here instead! Countryside is similarly idyllic and easily accessible and you can get that ‘away from it all feeling.)

·         3.5 hours from Newcastle

·         3 hours from Cardiff

Trains can be taken to Stoke-on-Trent or Derby and connecting trains to Uttoxeter where you'll find buses to Alton Towers.  There are buses from Stoke to Cheadle or Alton Towers, local taxis, and as we live nearby we'll endeavour not to leave you stranded if we are around!

To help you with your budget we offer 3 nights at £295 and 7 nights for £450.  We are told it is fair to describe Barks as very smart self-catering accommodation near Alton Towers, but at very reasonable prices.

Barks Self Catering Holiday Cottage in the Churnet Valley

Holiday accommodation in the Staffordshire Moorlands, ideally situated for Peak District walks and Alton Towers fun.

01538 703436

Day out at Alton Towers

Barks Self Catering Holiday Cottage:

Winter weekend in the country £185 for 2 nights for a family of 4/5 with all bed linen and a real log fire included. Please email barks@btconnect.com or call 01538 703436. Winter weekends and short breaks are on offer from 1st November to 17th December so put your walking boots on and enjoy some fresh air in the Peak District.

Alton Towers 2010 season

Barks is 3 miles to Alton Towers and offers self-catering accommodation for family of 4/5.

3 nights for £295 and 7 nights for £450. Bookings require 50% deposit and remainder 4 weeks before arrival.

01538 703436 barks@btconnect.com.

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I am planning our last day at Alton Towers for this season. I have 3 tickets and my 6 year old has had to make some tough choices about who to accompany him. Parents - one, other, both, none - or friends. The friends option is top priority, so much so that finding a friend with a more daring parent is in fact the favourite option. Currently racking my brains to think which parent of my son's friends would enjoy this offer the most!

Alton Towers opens

An increase in enquiries and the hawthorn leaves appearing are both proof of the arrival of spring. Alton Towers opened this weekend, which possibly explains the surge of booking enquiries that we received. Either that or the improvement in the weather. In the last week alone people have contacted us from UK and Ireland with a variety of requirements - with/without children, with/without dogs, weekend walking breaks, accommodation near Alton Towers, and a business stay that requires WiFi. All are welcome at Barks.

Cycling holidays

Staffordshire County Council have produced a clear map on the many cycling and walking opportunities across the county. Please note that some of the best are available on our doorstep.

I cycled with my 4 year old on our tow-along bike from Moneystone to Denstone last weekend. The descent into Oakamoor needs brakes that work (ours aren't up to the job), but the disused railway track is an easy, quiet track which was lined with bluebells. There is a gorgeous farm shop in Denstone which has a cafe and sells yummy ice cream - we thought after 5 miles cycling we deserved to treat ourselves. I confess that we did get a lift back, but we had just played tennis in Denstone. This track is also a great dog walking spot.

There are many quiet picnic spots along the Oakamoor to Denstone disused railway. My favourites are the Oakamoor picnic ground and park area, Dimmings Dale (where there is a great tea room with gardens), and a lovely spot beyond Alton where you can either sit on a footbridge or paddle in the river. Guests can ask for more details on any of these if they want to make a day of walking or cycling in the area.

Other nearby cycle routes nearby are Manifold Valley, an easy trail from Waterhouses going into the heart of the White Peak, and the Tissington Trail, which has great views of the Peak District all along its route from Ashbourne Buxton. Both of these trails have local cycle hire.

The link to Staffordshire County Council maps is http://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/transport/walkingandcycling/maps/ and I recommend the Staffordshire Moorlands map and the Key.

Alton Towers

Went to Alton Towers to get literature for the holiday cottage and was reminded about the smart way to book tickets for the theme park. The best deals come via offers and promotions from retailers - Woolworths have/had an offer so look out for similar deals. Next best is to check the website and the most crazy, expensive way is to poll up on the day when you have to pay approx £24 per adult.

Alton Towers theme park is a good family day out. And Splash Landings is a fun way to spend a morning or afternoon.