The Orchards Ilam

Had a fabulous 3 night stay in the cottage exploring the immediate area with the kids. The cottage is in a prefect location with fantastic views and we had a fabulous walk to Ilam hall and over to dovedale and the kids really enjoyed climbing up Thorpe Cloud. We all enjoyed the open fire and the cottage was very well equipt with lots of lovely extra touches. Was a lovely short break. Tracy
Feb 28th, 2023

We (a group of 5 friends) booked the orchards for 2 nights because we were attending a wedding in the area. It was a brilliant choice; clean, spacious and had everything we needed. Vanessa was really helpful in the run up to our visit and we all said it would be a great base for a walking weekend...Next time!! Only comment is that WiFi and phone signal was limited but that wouldn't be an issue if you were there for a relaxing weekend.
Sep 23rd, 2022

I have stayed here many times over the years with my family. Growing up, its always been the most wonderful place. This is why I came back recently with my two friends and was proud to show them part of my childhood. We cant fault the cottage and its homely feel. Its clean and well maintained. Vanessa clearly takes pride in ensuring its a home from home. The beautiful surroundings with so much to see. Just waking up in the morning and opening the curtains to miles of countryside - what could be better? There are so many places to recommend, all of which are within an hour from the cottage. I hope this helps those who may be looking for some suggestions. Please do note as well that Vanessa kindly has leaflets in the cottage for local attractions too - which is how we discovered some of these gems. - Bakewell is a must on a market day, and to get a traditional Bakewell Tart, of course. - Carsington Water for a lovely walk, you can also hire bikes here. - Ashbourne is more of a high street type place, but you can hire bikes from The Bike Barn and cycle The Tissington Trail, which is wonderful. Tissington Tea Rooms are a must for some well earned cream tea. You can also feed the ducks in Tissington which is lovely. There is also The Bowling Green restaurant which has fantastic food. - Ilam is a peaceful walk from the cottage and worth checking out. Good hot chocolate in the tea rooms! - Dovedale is just stunning. You dont have to walk the whole trail to Milldale (theres a great tuck shop there if you do, though!) as there is still lots to see at multiple points through the trail. One of those activities worth doing after some days of spoiling yourself to work off those extra calories! - Matlock isnt a full day thing, but has a couple of arcades so a good stop for an hour or two for some old school fun! - Treak Cliff Cavern for a really cool look around some caverns. Super interesting and something a little different. - Alton Towers for those thrill seekers. - Peak Wildlife Park is a must. A wonderful hidden gem in Leek which lets you get up close with some amazing animals. - For a bigger animal fix, you have Twycross Zoo, but this is a bit further afield (a little over an hour), but they have snow leopards and a wider range of animals there so worth a day trip. There is just so much to do and I cant think of a better place to come home to in the evening than The Orchards. Thank you Vanessa (and Vic!) for not only providing such a wonderful place, but also giving me so many happy memories over the years.
Apr 19th, 2023

Aug 17th, 2022

Cannot give enough positive comments about the cottage, what it offers or the owners. It was a delight to stay. 6 of us in very comfortable surroundings, Vanessa, the owner has thought of everything that may be needed. We all had a great time and came away so relaxed. Any of us would happily return 100/100.
Jun 30th, 2022