All walks are weather dependent and we reserve the right to make changes to the walks stated if we deem it necessary

Surrounded by pretty countryside and set in a charming village location this comfortable Country House provides a perfect base for Twixtmas Break. From here we shall have our every need catered for. All the bedrooms have an individual layout and character but all have TV with digital radio, hair dryer and complimentary tea and coffee making facilities. For our complete relaxation the spacious public rooms lead to a licenced bar which in turn opens onto a terrace with an aspect enjoying a delightful view of the surrounding countryside. Wi-Fi in all public areas and a proper boot and drying room to cater for any type of weather.  

To allow you to choose a walk that suits you best, we provide a minimum of two walks on each day, led by professional and knowledgeable walking guides. On both days there will be a harder walk of 10-14 miles with 1000+ft of ascent (please be realistic about your level of fitness and join the right walk for you, after all it should be about pleasure at the end of the day) and a gentler walk of 8-9 miles with less ascent.

You MUST have:

• Walking boots

• A Water bottle (minimum 1 litre)

• A Rucksack with a plastic liner

• Waterproofs: jacket and trousers

• A Warm hat

• Warm gloves (not leather)

• Thick walking socks

• Base layer: (thin thermal or warm T-shirt. Best not to be cotton as it gets cold when wet)

• Over layer: (warm sweater or fleece)

• Extra layer: warm top for when cold (eg. when stopped for lunch)

• Comfortable walking trousers (not jeans as they are too cold & heavy when wet)

• Hand Sanitiser

• Face Mask/Face Covering

• Personal Medication

• Smart casual clothes for the evening.

You may wish to bring:

• Vacuum flask (if you like hot drinks on the hill)

• Medium size Tupperware container or plastic bag, to put picnic lunch in.

• Sit mat 

• Sun glasses

• Lip salve

• Camera

• Personal first aid kit

• Trekking Poles

In good weather and/or summer, you may also wish to bring

• Short trousers

• T - Shirts

• Sun hat

• Sun tan lotion

In poor weather and/or winter, you may also wish to bring:

• Gaiters

• Balaclava

• Extra warm clothing

The Walking Programme

To allow you to choose a walk that suits you best, we provide a minimum of two walks on each day, led by professional and knowledgeable walking guides. On both days there will be a harder walk of 10-14 miles with 1000+ft of ascent (please be realistic about your level of fitness and join the right walk for you, after all it should be about pleasure at the end of the day) and a gentler walk of 8-9 miles with less ascent.

Ilam Hall, Hamps Valley & Mere Hill

From Ilam Park we cross the river and head up and over the steep Mere Hill for envious views over the impressive White Peak countryside. Reaching Beeston Tor at the confluence of the Manifold and Hamps we turn left and head south along the Manifold Way. Now we follow the wonderful Hamps Valley with its steep sides and fine wooded areas. In classic limestone country fashion sometimes the river disappears for miles underground, only to reappear elsewhere. At Sparrowlee Bridge we head up over the hill to Rushley and back along the river to Ilam Hall. The moderate walk is a slightly shorter version of this. 

Dovedale & Wetton from the house

Walking from the house today we make our way swiftly into the spectacular Dovedale. Heading northwards we pass by fantastic rock formations such as the Twelve Apostles, Reynard’s Cave and the Tissington Spires! Midway along Dovedale itself, we ascend the side valley of Hall Dale and make our way over to the picturesque village of Wetton. Turning for home, we will have time to drink in the spectacular panorama of Manifold Dale before returning over field footpaths to the our comfortable centre. The moderate walk is a slightly shorter version of this.