Black Swan Cottage

This lovely cottage dates back to 1570 and is though to be the oldest in the village. It is Grade 2 listed and has a wealth of beams and character. There is a great log fire in the cosy sitting room for those long winter nights. You can begin many walks into Derbyshire countryside from the door and plenty of pubs are within walking distance. The River Wye runs through the village - perfect for cooling that bottle of wine. I have had great fun doing up this cottage without wanting to lose its character. The wattle and daub walls remain and there isn't a straight line in the house. You can lie back in bed in the twin room and see the C shaped crook beam that dates the cottage to 1570. Going down the stairs you will pass the oak mullion window which was hidden in the 1970s before its value was appreciated. Modern oak floors downstairs make for easy living but the beautiful radial beams on the floor upstairs are my favourite. I think the kitchen is my favourite room. Practical white goods are hidden to make a cosy place to cook and eat. The sitting room is framed by the criss crossed lead of the window panes. It is a warm and comfortable room with a great fire. There are lots of books and DVDs if it is raining. Outside it a courtyard of york stone enclosed with stone walls and a gate. My labrador would jump over it , but small dogs can't escape. There is an umbrella, table and chairs for good weather. This village is great. But I know I am biased having lived here for 17 years and brought up 4 children here. I am still doing new walks from my door and exploring pubs en route. We don't do mountain biking, although lots do. However we cycle on roads. Perfect for the fit. The great thing is that the old railway lines such as the Monsal Trail are now opened for those who want to escape cars and cycle, walk or push prams on the flat. A huge asset to the area. The village has a park which is hidden from the road, so feels safer and more intimate. It also has a gate to the best pub in the village! Children can paddle in the river with ease and be free to wander to the tearoom with a sense of freedom and safety that is to be appreciated these days! We all park on the road outside the cottage and my house. There is no off road parking, nor is it needed. I try to make sure a space is free for my guests directly in front of Black Swan if possible. However we have not had any problems apart from in Well Dressing Week when all of Derbyshire wants to be in our village! The buses are frequent. There are easy trains to London, Sheffield and Manchester from Buxton or Chesterfield. Taxis from the stations are easy to get. Taxis for getting around the villages need to be thought about in advance. Please note that there is no bath. As it is a Grade 2 listed building we are regulated by the Peak Park. I could only put a wet room on the first floor because of the amazing beams that are protected by the llisting. I know this can be frustrating!