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Two luxury holiday cottages in one of the most picturesque rural settings of the Peak District in the hamlet of Milldale, Alstonefield.

Hear It From The Guests

Recent Reviews

“Absolutely wonderful stay over the Christmas break. One of the best cottages we’ve ever stayed in, with everything you could possibly need – and more – on tap. Countless extra little touches, incredible generosity, spotlessly clean – and yet we still felt completely at home! This really is hotel-style self-catering accommodation. And, of course, it’s set in the most stunning location, with Dovedale on the doorstep. Communication with Andrew and Sarah was easy from the start to finish. Truly a rare find.”

Jenny - Dec 23

“My family and I had the most wonderful Christmas staying at Duck Cottage. Sarah and Andy provided the best hospitality leading up to our stay, during and afterwards.

The cottage was very clean, and provided a lovely hamper on arrival. Because it was Christmas, they also provided some roasting tins, which was a lovely touch.

The cottage has everything that a family would need and plenty of space to relax. I would certainly recommend to anyone wishing to stay within the Peak District.”

A Brooksbank - Dec 23

“The reviews on this page say it all. You will not find a better quality and better equipped property to book for your holiday, especially one in such a stunning location as Milldale in the Dove valley. Nor will you find better hosts than Sarah and Andrew whose only concern is to make sure you enjoy your stay. Outstanding in every respect.”

C Barrass - Sept 23

“We spent a week at Riverside Cottage. The cottage was wonderful – well equipped, very clean and with plenty of space. The Aga was lovely and warm, especially after our long walks in the area. And the Sky Sports avoided any football withdrawal symptoms!

The location is ideal. You can walk out of the door and enjoy some of the best scenery in Derbyshire. But there are plenty of walks a short drive away. Despite the mixed weather we managed to get out everyday.

Finally, Andrew and Sarah were great hosts. A friendly introduction to check that we had what we needed and a brief farewell felt the right balance. I am sure if we had needed anything they would have helped.”

Edwards Family - Sept 23

We have stayed in many beautiful cottages in stunning locations over the years, but Sarah and Andrew’s attention to detail has ensured that our holiday at Riverside Cottage has simply been the best! The cottage itself is perfect; it had absolutely everything we needed, was super clean, welcoming and cosy. The larder and laundry is fully stocked, which is unusual in our experience and very helpful. The luxurious welcome basket was such a treat. The location is stunning – our granddaughter absolutely loved the ducks and even the weather was on our side.

Our holiday cottage is usually just the base from which we explore the local area, but Riverside Cottage is so much more and had the weather not been as kind, we would have still enjoyed our holiday just as much.

Thank you Sarah and Andrew, for a wonderful family holiday that we will never forget.

The Olivers - Aug 23

“If I could give Duck Cottage more than 5 stars I would. This is the most perfect cottage, beautiful outside and decorated elegantly inside. The location in Milldale, a lovely little hamlet, is just off the River Dove path, so perfect walking is right on the doorstep.
Duck Cottage itself had everything we could want and more, with a lovely welcome basket of local treats. It was immaculate both in cleanliness and decor.
Andy and Sarah were extremely responsive with suggestions for eating and quick answers to any questions we had. A huge thank you to them for a most enjoyable 5 days in this beautiful setting.”

Veronica D - Aug 23

“We have just finished our 4 night stay at Riverside Cottage and we could not be happier with our decision to book this accommodation. My husband, 5 year old Son and Golden Retriever, felt right at home from the offset. The cottage truly is 5 star. It’s very clean with lovely decor. The attention detail was second to non. From the dog bed, welcome basket with bubbles and robes in the bedroom all added to the luxury feel.

The location is amazing. The cottage is situated in the rolling hills, next to a stream with stepping stones, which my son loved. On our doorstep were multiple walking routes for the dog. 15 minutes from Ashbourne Town for amenities and a 30-minute drive from some of the South Peaks hot spots.

If you are looking for a 5 star luxury cottage retreat to get away from it all I would highly recommend Riverside Cottage. Thanks for all your help Sarah and Andrew. You were the perfect hosts!”

Sarah B - Aug 23

“We absolutely loved our stay at Riverside Cottage. Sarah and Andy have created such a luxurious and cosy environment for their guests and have thought of everything. From the thoughtful welcome basket, to the fantastically equipped kitchen, supremely comfy bed, immaculate bathrooms and beautiful outside spaces, the cottage really is the perfect base for a break in the Peaks. We were so grateful for Sarah’s recommendation of The George at Alstonefield for a meal – a really fantastic lunch from a very talented chef. The location is perfect for exploring the stunning countryside (in particular we loved the circular walk through Beresford Dale and into Alstonefield) and picturesque local villages (Tissington is gorgeous!). A 5 star holiday!”

James Family - June 23

“Graham and I have just returned home from the most beautiful few days away – not only was the area and surroundings exceptional, I cannot stress enough how absolutely delighted we were to have booked such a beautiful cottage. It was incredibly clean and tidy and the attention to detail was amazing ensuring our stay in Riverside Cottage couldn’t have been any better. Sarah had thought of everything from the delicious welcome pack for us, to the very thoughtful and unexpected inclusion of dog bowls, bed and blankets for our black Labrador Woody. So much thought and effort had gone into our stay, I cannot thank Sarah enough. It’s an absolute must and I cannot wait to return now knowing it will feel home from home….. thank you so much Sarah x”

Mandy & Graham - May 23

We cannot recommend this cottage highly enough.  We’ve just spent a wonderful two-weeks at Riverside Cottage.  I was plotting our return before we even checked out!  It’s a fantastic location for walking from the door, especially in either direction along the gorgeous, bubbling River Dove.  The booking process is super slick and professional.  The cottage is peaceful; beautifully and interestingly furnished and decorated; thoughtfully and extremely well equipped; and spotless.  The riverside setting is idyllic, and there are no less than 5 comfortable seating areas around the cottage, which must be great in summer.  We really appreciated Sarah and Andrew’s friendly gestures, all the local information provided, and the generous supply of everything we might possibly need around the house, right down to cooking herbs and spices.  Thank you so much for everything, Sarah and Andrew.  It’s clearly important to you to give your guests a luxurious and special stay, and you succeeded beyond our expectations.  And we loved meeting you both!

Mrs C - Mar 23

I was very lucky to be included in Sarah W’s party of four adults when she booked Duck Cottage for one week in June 2022, and again from Boxing Day 2022 until early January 2023.  We fell in love with the cottage and its stunning location last summer when we made full use of the outdoor areas, including the sunny upper patio, as well as the local hiking trails.  We imagined how pretty the cottage and village would be during the winter months, especially over the festive season, so we decided to return to judge for ourselves.  We weren’t disappointed.  The already beautifully appointed cottage was fully decorated for Christmas, and a generous pile of logs was supplied for us to burn during the evenings.  Duck Cottage was even more cosy and comfortable than we dreamed it would be, and that’s really saying something because we already knew and loved the property.  This is self-catering at its very best, whatever the season or weather.  Thank you Andrew and Sarah!

Lynne F - Jan 23

Sarah and Andrew, thank you, we had the most enjoyable time in this area and being able to stay at the lovely Duck Cottage made it even better.

You have done the most fantastic job in making this a comfortable and well-appointed home from home – you clearly take great pride in making sure your guests are happy.  We were very happy!  Everything we needed was there; the hamper was amazing, and the firewood, milk, bacon, HP, etc. were all much appreciated.  The Christmas tree and decorations were an added bonus to get us in the festive mood.

Thanks again for a lovely stay, we very much look forward to our next visit. We wish you a very Happy 2023!

K Cooper - Dec 22

“Our second stay at Milldale, this time in Riverside, and WOW! I shouldn’t really be surprised, but Andrew and Sarah have thought of everything in this wonderful cottage. From the moment you open the door and met with the warmth of the aga, to the beautifully decorated and thought out rooms, together with a very welcoming welcome pack. Upstairs in no different, every bedroom very tastefully decorated and relaxing to be in, with both bathrooms modern and done to such a high standard. This is truly the picture perfect break, beautiful cottage, wonderful little hamlet with incredible walks along the river Dove, literally on your door stop. Thankyou again to Andrew and Sara, you can really see the work in the care and attention you put into these cottages. We will be back soon!”

Mr & Mrs B - Oct 22

Perfect in every way! Our 3rd stay at Riverside and just the loveliest of cottages. The interior and exterior want for nothing. The hosts take attention to detail to the next level and have created a haven of luxury we have lost ourselves in with every holiday!

Wings - Aug 22

“Riverside Cottage is probably the best cottage we have ever stayed in. Every inch and corner has been thought about. As well as being beautifully presented, we all slept very well in incredibly comfortable beds (so often a bit a of a let down on other holidays!) and enjoyed the luxurious touches throughout the cottage. Our dog was thoroughly spoiled with all the doggy beds/blankets and extras, and the outside space, with its many levels, was a relaxing place to enjoy the sounds of the river whilst reading a book. Good WiFi and Netflix were also very much welcomed. There were many walks from the village and an extensive list of local pubs in the welcome pack. We found a few we really liked! The cottage was also situated close to some wonderful places to visit and was the perfect base in this respect too. We were very grateful for the delicious welcome pack of goodies after our long journey and Andrew and Sarah were wonderful hosts. Thank you so much for making our holiday so perfect!”

Paul - July 2022

“We had a truly wonderful stay with friends at this beautiful cottage in an idyllic location to celebrate birthdays and anniversaries missed during lockdown. The cottage was beautifully and thoughtfully presented with a quality finish throughout and spotlessly clean everywhere. Everything you need is there and so many beautiful little detailed touches that really make the difference. There was lots of information in the information pack, especially helpful walking guides. Andrew and Sarah came and introduced themselves and were very helpful – we felt we could call on them at any time if needed. The welcome basket was excellent (wonderful marmalade!) and much appreciated. The kitchen is very well stocked with crockery and cookware and everything of excellent quality. We went on some lovely walks locally and toured the rest of the Peak District but the River Dove and Dovedale is as picturesque as it gets. Our magical moment was strolling down to the Viators Bridge after dinner and sharing the peace, quiet and beauty of the place with the ducks – wonderful. Thank you Andrew and Sarah for a great stay and sometime we hope to return, all being well.”

David S - June 2022

“Our recent stay at Riverside Cottage was truly wonderful. This beautifully designed cottage has comfortable beds with lovely bedding, white fluffy towels, a choice of seating both in the house and the garden. There is a separate laundry room and a fully fitted sun house. The kitchen has every appliance that you could want. We thank Sarah and Andrew for their welcome package and kind enquiries regarding our comfort. It is so well situated for enjoying energetic walks in the Dales but also for the less able there is a flat walk along the river which is accessible and easy. We could not think how it could be more perfect and we hope to return for another holiday.”

Mrs J S - May 2022

The Martin Family’s review of Riverside is almost verbatim what I had intended to write, so “ditto” that!

We usually don’t want to rebook the same place as prefer to discover and explore new places but we feel an exception would most likely be made as we had such a peaceful, relaxing break in this most charming and exquisitely furnished cottage.

Andrew and Sarah go beyond high levels of service and communication, along with the cottage and setting, it will be an impressive setup that topples them from the gold standard.

Thinking already which week next year to book….if available!

Thanks again for everything.

The Wrights - Apr 2022

“Having spent four nights here in early spring, we enjoyed this wonderful property and its prime location. Being just a stone’s throw away from the trail to the Dovedale Stepping Stones and Thorpe Cloud; we used the readily signposted routes to navigate the stunning scenery around Duck Cottage. A fantastic base for all of our day trips and a cozy environment to spend our evenings. The cottage was fully prepared with everything we could possibly need, could not have asked for more, we fully intend to return on our next trip to the Dales.”

Mr W - Apr 2022

When I was browsing through the internet back in October time for a spring holiday for my family I came across Riverside Cottage. I knew then it would be absolutely perfect for us all and was very excited about our visit. Well it certainly didn’t disappoint. Milldale is so beautiful and tranquil. Riverside Cottage is  a real little gem and we all thoroughly enjoyed our stay. We even added on an extra night as we loved it there so much. The welcome hamper was very much enjoyed and the cottage was so comfortable and luxurious. 

We enjoyed some lovely walks from the cottage, especially to Dovedale. We will definitely return in the future. Thank you so much Andrew and Sarah!

Martin Family - Apr 2022

My family has just returned from the most wonderful stay at Riverside Cottage. In a beautiful location, this is a true luxury rental with charm, character and so many lovely touches. The welcome hamper and Christmas decorations were particularly appreciated. It has everything you’ll need to be comfortable and the owners went out of their way to ensure we had everything we needed. It was a real treat to stay here and we hope to return again in the future.

Isabella - Dec 2021

The most perfect, warm and cosy, luxury holiday home! We have never been SO well catered for (and we have stayed in some wonderful cottages)….Even our little doggies agree! The fine interior design, incredible beds and amazing bedding – we all slept like logs!

The Aga – perfect for cooking! Fully stocked kitchen, deceptively roomy – both inside and out and not forgetting the peaceful, stunning surrounding countryside!

A**** Nothing too much trouble for Andrew and Sarah. Thank you so much! We will definitely return!

Kay - Dec 2021

“I cannot fault this house. Comfortable, beautifully decorated, immaculate, every imaginable thing you would want. Great tech set up with smart tv and Bluetooth speaker. Gorgeous linens, towels, toiletries. A great location, lovely helpful hosts. We’ll be back.”

Eleanor - Nov 2021

Can’t praise this wonderful cottage enough. The attention to detail is second to none with every comfort you could wish for. The decor is beautiful and relaxing and the situation by the river is perfect.

A very warm welcome awaits anyone who wishes to stay in this beautiful part of the country. Every precaution is taken to make the place spotless in these difficult times. We will be back.

Carol - Oct 2021

“We had a wonderful stay at this stunning cottage. Everything you could need has been thought of from cook books and walking guides to fans if it’s too warm. There are white robes for each guest. The place is immaculately clean and the decor is beautiful. There was lots of information in the information pack and also felt we could contact Andrew and Sarah if we needed to. The welcome basket is a lovely touch. The kitchen is very well stocked with crockery and everything is of very good quality. There is tea, coffee, sugar and a state of the art coffee machine. Large serving bowls and casserole dishes. They also provided a bike locker. The attention to detail was superb.

We went on some lovely walks in the area. There are lots of different terrains so great for all levels of fitness. The walk to Dovedale stepping stones is very picturesque along the river. Thanks Andrew and Sarah for a great stay and hopefully we will be back again next year.”

Andrea - Sept 2021

“We have loved every minute of our stay in beautiful Duck Cottage. We have walked, cycled, relaxed and made full use of the local eateries. And we have revelled in the glorious peace of Milldale, and the stunning surrounding scenery. The cottage is perfect and we have been so grateful for all the little touches; the books and print-outs of local walks, the carefully curated DVD collection and, of course, the fabulous welcome hamper. We leave far more relaxed and determined to return – thank you.”

Mr Jones - Aug 2021

“Fantastic all round! Would recommend to anyone!!! Stunning. Amazing. Homely. Cosy. Relaxing. Clean. Everything imaginable available. Lovey welcome hamper. Need to come back to feed the ducks some more!”

Ajay - Aug 2021

“What an incredible stay we had at Riverside Cottage. This cottage has everything, including a Picnic Rucksack (definitely worth using). The location is idyllic and the finishing dinner the cottage are superb. Thoroughly recommend this cottage. Andy is a fantastic host!”

Emma - Aug 2021

“We cannot recommend Riverside Cottage highly enough. The cleanliness, attention to detail and comfort were second to none. From the very generous welcome pack, the high quality appliances and toileteries, the extremely comfortable sitting areas and beds – nothing was forgotten in making our stay there relaxing and memorable. Even our dog was catered for with bowls and beds provided! There was plenty of parking and the scenery was stunning. Andrew and Sarah were extremely approachable and helpful -recommending good walks and pubs and answering any questions promptly. The whole week was like spending time in a 5 star hotel. The photos of the cottage don’t do it justice. Thank you Sarah and Andrew for providing us with a perfect break away.”

Jonathan - Aug 2021

We had a really special weekend in Riverside Cottage – every detail has been thought of and it is so well kitted out with everything you could need, plus robes and a lovely welcome basket of local produce! The front garden is beautiful, the road is quiet, and you can hear the river from your bedroom if you sleep with the windows open. We walked to Dovedale along the river and took an alternative (extremely hilly) route on the way back – so much fun and walks for all fitness levels from the doorstep. It felt like a home from home and I can’t recommend it enough!

Danielle

Spent a week ensconced in this magically pretty corner of the Peak District. With the soft bubbling of the river outside and the glorious hills on view all around us we felt were a world away. Duck Cottage is a real gem – so beautifully furnished and equipped it was a warm and cosy retreat from the showers. When we were lucky enough to see the sun, we took full advantage of the gorgeous outside decking and front garden patio. Can only imagine how lovely it is to spend a warm summer’s evening outside listening to the gentle sounds of the night time countryside.

Mrs Z

“Fantastic family holiday ~ 5 Star standards, quality hosts, wonderful welcome hamper, walks on your doorstep – a week wasn’t long enough to do everything. we would love to come back in the winter to experience the change in seasons. Thanks Andy and Sarah – you made us feel very welcome.”

Mr & Mrs P

“Andy & Sarah cannot do enough for you from the moment we arrived to the last evening. We have rebooked for next year already (we did this on the 2nd night!). Everything was exactly as you would expect it to be at a 5 star cottage and we felt so relaxed in spite of the on going Covid 19 pandemic. They had made every effort to ensure that we felt safe and comfortable. Milldale is stunning and the cottage fits the surroundings perfectly.

It is very clear to see just how much work and effort has been put into making this such a lovely home from home. The only complaint was having to give the keys back at the end of the week!

Thank you, 2 more visits booked now and many more expected.”

Mr W

“Idyllic setting, beautiful cottage furnished to 5 star standards. Very comfortable and luxurious. Welcome hamper was quite a feast!”

Mr T

“Just to let you know that we really enjoyed staying at Duck Cottage; we hope all was okay after we left it. We thought it was absolutely lovely; we were beautifully warm and comfortable and really appreciated the homemade cake, bread, marmalade and, of course, the champagne.”

Mr & Mrs H

“We loved our stay at Duck Cottage. Everything was perfect especially the homemade cake! Thank you so much.”

Mr & Mrs D

A wonderful week in Duck Cottage thanks to Sarah and Andrew who ensured that everything was just perfect for our stay. The Cottage is immaculate and fitted out to a very high standard throughout. To say it was spotless is an understatement, everything was so clean it really did feel like somewhere to relax in, very much a home away from home which is quite something during these difficult Covid times. The location and the cottage are so pretty and we certainly did not want to leave. We intend to return to Duck Cottage for another stay in this magical place.

Thank you Sarah and Andrew, your personal attention and attention to detail showed that its important to you that your guests enjoy their stay which we certainly did.

Sue & Colin

“Walking around the corner from the parking area and taken in by the views and the sound of the babbling brook, Duck Cottage emerges, and you are obliged to just stop for a moment and take in your surroundings. Stepping into a different world of beauty and peace, whatever reasons had you escaping to this stunning place, will be forgotten.

Met on site by the lovely couple, Andy and Sarah will welcome you with a smile, a gift basket and we cannot forget the champagne and home-made cake (Sarah is exceeding good at baking). We are given the grand tour, and in every room, you can’t help but notice how beautifully designed they are. By this point, you already know you are really going to enjoy your stay here.

The cottage consists of a wood burning stove and an Apple computer, with full access to the internet with free WiFi, in the sitting room, a kitchen that has absolutely everything you are going to need for your stay, two bathrooms (one with a beautiful free-standing bath and the other with a big walk-in shower), and the comfiest beds I have ever stayed in, with luxury bedding. I didn’t want to leave. Through your stay you will keep noticing all the attention to detail that has been applied, Andy and Sarah have thought of everything and have got you covered.

We stayed for a number of weeks and Andy was available upon request, and Sarah touched base to see if we needed new towels, the bedding changed and to ask what we wanted in our second cake (they were so tasty!).

The external surroundings are beautiful. If you prefer to stay at the property, there is a private terrace that climbs up the rear of the property, equipped with very comfortable outdoor seating and a view of the River Dove. But, if you like to venture in the country, then you need to make sure you pack your hiking boots, don’t be making the same mistake that this city-boy did. I slipped over in the fields a few times, and albeit hilarious to me, my friends and any onlookers, I will definitely be taking hiking boots when I return over Christmas.

During my stay I already decided that this was the perfect place to spend holidays with the family, and when booking the Christmas period, Andy and Sarah said they will decorate the cottages for us. After seeing the level of standard throughout their interior design, I already know that Christmas is going to be magical for my niece and nephews.

Seriously, you two should be very proud of both cottages and your level of care and service.”

Mr L

“We had a delightful stay in this beautiful spot. Peace and tranquility , but with option of so many things to see and do nearby, beautiful cottage with everything we needed.

We look forward to returning to this hidden gem.”

Mr S

“We stayed for 6 days in Duck Cottage and had a lovely time. The cottage is lovely, with excellent facilities and beautifully furnished and decorated, and the cleaning was impeccable. The location is also perfect, very tranquil and unspoilt. Would highly recommend, and we will be returning in the future.”

Ben and family

What a wonderful stay! Milldale itself is a special place, but to enjoy it while staying in beautiful Duck Cottage is as good as it gets. The cottage is exquisitely designed and immaculately presented, equipped with everything you could need. Andrew and Sarah are great hosts: attentive and responsive, never intrusive; truly first class. We will most definitely be back!

Mrs L

“A beautifully appointed, immaculately clean and comfortable cottage in a perfect location for walking and enjoying Dovedale straight from the door. Thank you Andrew and Sarah.

Sally

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