“Now this is the way to finish a walk!” exclaimed my 7 year old as he jumped into the pool and emerged in a floating star shape with a big sigh.
You’d think after a three hour hike he’d want to veg out in front of the TV. But on return to Haddon Grove from our hike, both our boys ran into the cottage to get changed and made a beeline to the pool, where they played for a good couple of hours, before returning to our cosy holiday cottage for a homemade pasta bake and a chill by the log fire. Happy days.
AD | Peak District Kids were provided with a complimentary weekend stay at Haddon Grove through Bakewell Retreats in exchange for social media coverage and an honest review featured on the website. As always, these are all our own words and opinions.
Nestled amongst picturesque farmland of the Peak District National Park between Bakewell and Monyash, is a collection of holiday cottages oozing with charm and character. These are Haddon Grove Holiday Cottages, and not only are they perfectly located in the heart of the White Peak, but there’s a heated indoor swimming pool, games room, and small playground, making it a pretty perfect choice for families.
Indeed, here at Peak District Kids we are always on the lookout for family friendly accommodation in the National Park, and parents are often asking for Peak District holiday cottage recommendations in our Facebook Group. However, living in the Peak District means that we haven’t personally tried out many holiday cottages, although we have tried out a fair few of the family campsites. So when Bakewell Retreats reached out to us to check out Haddon Grove, we jumped at the opportunity and booked in for a weekend in March, staying at Slipper Lo, a two-bed cottage.
Arriving to Haddon Grove
Haddon Grove is a 2.5 mile drive out of Bakewell, yet feels beautifully remote. That get-away-from-it-all feeling strikes you as soon as you drive through the gates. Indeed, you do need a car (or taxi) to get here, there are no public transport options.
There’s a large parking area to pull into on arrival, and Mark, the friendly and relaxed onsite manager, was waiting for us in reception. He had already lit the log fire for us, so that our cottage was warm and welcoming.
The Cottages
There are ten holiday cottages to hire at Haddon Grove, ranging from Love Nest and Love Bird, which both sleeps 2, to The Farmhouse, which sleeps 10. It’s a superb location if you’re planning a big get-together with extended family or groups of friends.
We stayed Slipper Lo, a two-bed cottage, which sleeps four, with an open-plan living area all spread across the one floor. It’s the perfect home from home with an oven, dishwasher, fridge/freezer, and all the kitchen utensils you need for self-catering, but with the added luxury bonus of a log fire and ensuite bathrooms to each bedroom.
The entire cottage is traditionally decorated and the rooms are unusually spacious. All towels and linen are provided, and the beds are super comfy.
And whilst we should all perhaps learn to switch off our devices on a trip like this, with flexible working practices and kids needing to stay connected to friends online, WIFI is important and the WIFI at Haddon Grove is excellent.
The onsite facilities
The onsite facilities are what make Haddon Grove a winner for families.
First, there’s the heated indoor swimming pool. This really is heated. Lovely temperature.
Second there is the games room with pool table. This is in the same building as the swimming pool.
Thirdly, there is the small playground at the back of the cottages. Football fans will appreciate the small goal set up in the back field.
Finally, there is a boot room (for storing your muddy boots) filled with books and board games. There is also a nicely stocked selection of highchairs here too.
Things to do nearby
With Bakewell just 2.5 miles down the road, it’s worthwhile popping in for a wander and a Bakewell Pudding. Click here for our full guide for things to do in Bakewell. Also, the Monsal Trail is nearby for a traffic-free and easy-going family bike ride, Thornbridge Gardens is a particularly fun day our for little ones, and Chatsworth House, one of the grandest estates in the UK, is a 15 minute drive away.
33 things to do in the Peak District with kids
Walks and bike rides are obviously top things to do in the Peak District, but there are also animal parks, canoeing, abseiling, wild swimming, cable cars, old trams, caverns… and lots LOTS more.
But the main reason why families visit the Peak District is to enjoy a walk in the great outdoors. At Haddon Grove you are rather spoilt for choice.
Walks from the front door
There is a public footpath immediately opposite the entrance to Haddon Grove, which leads down to Lathkill Dale. From here, you can walk west to Monyash (5.5km along footpaths), where there’s the family-friendly Bulls Head pub with the village playground behind. Or you can walk east to Over Haddon (4km along footpaths), where there’s The Lathkill Hotel, which affords stunning views over to Youlgreave.
Alternatively, you could easily link up with our Lathkill Dale walk from Monyash (circular, 6.6km), and start from point 8.
Other walks nearby
If you want to explore further afield and you have a car, the following walks are all nearby:
- Over Haddon walk to Lathkill Dale (5km)
- Middleton to Youlgreave walk (3.6km)
- Magpie Mine walk (8km)
- Bakewell to Chatsworth walk (10km)
Click here for our full list of family walks in the Peak District. There’s a map towards the top to help you search the best located walks.
How to book Haddon Grove
Haddon Grove Holiday Cottages are managed by Bakewell Retreats. Click here to visit their website and book. If Haddon Grove is booked, they also manage other holiday cottages in the Peak District.
Final thoughts on Haddon Grove
If you’re a family looking to stay at a Peak District holiday cottage, you really can’t go wrong with Haddon Grove. Situated it in the heart of National Park with superb family walks on the doorstep, the location is perfect. You really feel like you’re getting away from it all, yet it’s just a five minute drive to the conveniences of Bakewell and a short drive to other local attractions.
The pool, games room, and playground provide onsite opportunities for kids to play whilst parents relax, and the traditional and cosy décor of the cottages provides an authentic Peak District experience.
Haddon Grove really is the perfect home from home for a Peak District family holiday.
You may also like to read:
Days out in the Peak District
Things to do in Bakewell
Best campsites for families in the Peak District