A moorland retreat in the Dark Peak

Welcome to one of the Peak District's best kept secrets - the Ewden Valley - which is a mixture of wild moorland and lush woodland. It's off the tourist trail and yet not far from the attractions in the National Park. It's fabulous for walking, cycling, riding (field for horses) and birdwatching. The cottage forms part of the Broomhead Estate and the wooded parkland runs down to the cottage. The 17th century cottage is a cosy hideaway with wood burner and wifi. Owner's tennis court available. Decorated in soft colours with thick curtains this house has a lovely cottagey feel. With the fire lit the place is toasty warm - great for watching a movie or reading a book on a dark night (central heating as well). There's a selection of garden furniture and a BBQ for you to enjoy the garden on a hot day. The cottage is built in grey stone in the Yorkshire style. The hamlet of Wigtwizzle is thought to date from Anglo Saxon times meaning "dairy between two streams". No access to garage The owners live just up the road and are at your beck and call during the stay. If they are away, another person will be available who also lives at the same site. This neck of the woods is really special - you only have to drive down into the Ewden Valley and the massive expanse of moorland, water and woodland will take your breath away. It must be one of the finest views in the National Park (and yet it's not teeming with tourists). There are fabulous walks from the house up onto the moorland which can take you into the Derwent Valley. The owner is a keen walker and happy to advise. This area is popular with cyclists as well and formed one of the most gruelling sections of the Yorkshire Tour de France. If you want a more urban experience there's plenty on offer - Holmfirth has great cafes and atmosphere and Stocksbridge has brand new shops and restaurants. The village of Bradfield is attractive with two cafes. The cottage is about 20 minutes from the M1 motorway so it has good access to Leeds and North and West Yorkshire. The best walking is actually on your doorstep, although we also recommend checking out the Derwent Valley walks over the hill. The Trans Pennine bridleway following an old railway line is an easy ride on a bike. You can take the tram into Sheffield from Malin Bridge if you don't want to park in the city centre. There are railway stations at Penistone, Bamford and Sheffield. You can do a day trip into Manchester from Bamford Station (about 50 minute journey. Horse riders: Grazing available for horses if you’d like them to have a holiday too. Great rides in the area - owner can advise.