Hartington is a small village in a very scenic part of the Derbyshire Peak District National Park. Situated by the River Dove, its location brings many visitors in for the gorgeous countryside alone. With a collection of stone-built cottages, tree lined streets and plenty of country charm, Hartington is an idyllic place for a rural retreat holiday or country cottage break.
Advice on Cottage Holidays in Hartington
Holiday homes of a good to high standard
A range of good holiday rentals of all sizes and ratings is available, one bedroom cottages for couples, family holiday homes and huge houses on the outskirts of the village. Many of the properties are made of local stone, surrounded by stone garden walls in keeping with the tradition of the area. Hartington is in the south of the Peak District, a somewhat quieter location than the tourist villages with show caverns. It is an excellent Peak District destination for dog-friendly breaks because of the wide open countryside surrounding the village.
A cottage rental in Hartington is a good base for an outdoors holiday
For those looking for an active self-catering holiday, book accommodation and discover the excellent walking opportunities in the valley. Walking and cycling are popular along trails that were formerly railway tracks. The National Cycle Network passes through the village and can be joined and left at various points. A number of the holiday home rentals have a secure bicycle shed where you can lock your bicycle away safely when not using it. Drying rooms for outdoor gear are also available in some. Rock climbers go to Manifold Valley and Dovedale for a tough challenge on the limestone. Hang gliders and paragliders can find places to indulge their passions too. If you like to relax by doing a bit of fishing, the River Dove is known for its bounty. You may be inspired to know that the famous authority on angling, Izaak Walton, wrote his book, ‘the Complete Angler’ whilst staying in the area.
Everyone needs a pub and local shop during a cottage break in Hartington
Shops, pubs and tea rooms serve the village well and include a specialist cheese shop selling local cheese. Making cheese has been a tradition in these parts for many years. Whilst enjoying a cottage holiday in the village don’t miss the attractive old market place. Also worth a visit is St. Giles, the village church, an attractive building made from local sandstone, mainly built in the 1200s and 1300s. For railway enthusiasts, the signal box at the disused railway station is of interest. It has been lovingly preserved and is a visitor centre today.
Lots of history and culture during a self-catered break in Hartington
Also to be found in the area, are various Stone Age monuments. Arbor Low is reputed to be the best example in the whole of northern England. Dated as being approximately 5,000 years old, from Neolithic times, the circular arrangement comprises stones lying flat to the ground, rather than the usual upright construction.
When enjoying a self-catering break in this part of the Peak District Park, you will benefit from being close to the beautiful Dovedale Valley, offering you access to what many regard as the most beautiful scenery in Derbyshire. It’s not surprising that it’s the most visited area in the Peak District. Owned and protected mainly by the National Trust, Dovedale is also much valued for its diversity of flora and fauna.
One of the most celebrated villages in the dale is Tissington. It is here where the first well dressings took place, a tradition that spread to other parts of Derbyshire, attracting visitors from far and wide. It’s a picture postcard village, complete with duck pond and Jacobean Mansion, we recommend that you visit for a day trip when enjoying a cottage holiday in Hartington.
Hartington is for those who favour natural surroundings and fascinating local history. Combined with modern day facilities, this area is an excellent destination for a rural getaway. When it comes to finding somewhere to stay choose from rural retreats, farm-stays and log cabins.
Whether you choose to book a holiday cottage in Hartington, an apartment, a lodge or another type of self-catering holiday accommodation, we hope you have your best holiday yet in Derbyshire.