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

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.

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.

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.