More about Swainsley Farm (the location)

A warm welcome to the spectacular scenery of the Manifold Valley, Dovedale and the luxurious self catering cottages of Swainsley Farm.

We are located in an elevated position looking south down the beautiful Manifold River which flows through spectacular crags and wooded valleys before joining the Dove several miles downstream. Guests staying at Swainsley Farm self catering cottages have amazing panoramic views of the Peak District National Park in all directions with wonderful walking straight from the door!

The idyllic and private location of our self catering cottages is along a tree lined drive leading from the quiet lane between Butterton and Hulme End. Swainsley Farm is sheltered by the majestic limestone dome of Ecton Hill which was part of Chatsworth and the Duke of Devonshire?s holdings.

It is an area of outstanding natural beauty with lush tranquil dales and wild romantic highlands. In the 19th century Swainsley Farm became part of Sir Thomas Wardle?s estate and had many distinguished visitors including Mark Twain. Today, we are a smallholding of 12 ? acres with three self catering cottages in an area rich in birds, wildlife and flowers.

Great care has been taken to convert traditional 18th century farm buildings into three high quality self catering cottages. With beamed ceilings and many original features they provide the homely comforts of a bygone age with modern essentials such as well equipped kitchens and bathrooms. Each is spacious with coordinated furnishings, ideal for a holiday at any time of year.

Externally, the self catering cottages have some of the finest views in the Derbyshire Dales, Staffordshire Moorlands and Peak District National Park. Visitors can relax and enjoy this stunning scenery from a sunny courtyard and paddock which has garden furniture, picnic tables and barbecues.

The area is steeped in history there are many National Trust properties, great houses and magnificent gardens. Some of the best cycling in the Peak District is available on the Manifold Trail running below Swainsley (also suitable for wheelchair users and mums with push chairs). Riding, trekking and fishing are all available locally, while the more adventurous can try their hand at rock climbing, caving, sailing, canoeing and hang gliding. There are a number of golf courses nearby. Visitors to our self catering cottages can take part in an endless number of activities or they may simply choose to relax and unwind in this wonderful, peaceful setting. If you want to pamper yourself we can arrange for holistic and beauty therapists for that extra special treat.

We are surrounded by some of the prettiest villages in England, with fine pubs, shops and restaurants. The ancient market towns of Buxton, Bakewell, Ashbourne and Leek are within 10 or 12 miles. All have regular markets, good shops, cafes and antique centres. There are many family attractions close by including Alton Towers, Matlock Bath and Chatsworth. The Potteries has the factory shops of Wedgwood, Royal Doulton, Spode and others.

The international sporting and concert venues of Manchester, Sheffield, Derby and Stoke-on-Trent are easily assessable for a great day out.

Our three self catering cottages sleep from 2 to 6 people and can be booked individually or in any combination to take up to 13 people. Come and try out our perfect romantic hideaway!