Crag Hall Peak District

If grandeur, tradition and a touch of nostalgia light your fire, then we can think of recommending no better retreat than Crag Hall, an imposing Georgian sandstone country house, which sleeps up to 21 guests, in the Peak District National Park.

Elevated views from the entrance of the house are simply magnificent, looking over the iconic ‘Shuttlingsloe’ known as the ‘Matterhorn of Cheshire’. A stay in this special residence combines the elegance and style of a place in the country, with the opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful, rugged countryside to be found in England.

Kept to the close family and immediate social circle of the Earl and Countess of Derby for many years, as their private country retreat and shooting lodge, this rural idyll is now available by exclusive appointment, accommodating up to 21 guests for weekend and short stays. With twelve bedrooms and eight bathrooms, the layout of the house is really flexible, allowing for children, teens or nannies to have separate areas if required.

Decorated throughout in English country house style, the house is nonetheless convivial and welcoming. Its open fires, AGA and traditional deep roll top baths will certainly encourage guests to kick back and relax, nurtured by the change in routine and the deep relaxation that comes from being outdoors, playing, exercising and enjoying fun times together.

The billiards and games room will also provide many hours of traditional fun and games, and there are also televisions, DVD players, Xbox 360, docking stations and complimentary wi-fi for more modern entertainment.

With such varied terrain on the doorstep, there are many outdoors activities to urge you to explore this beautiful part of the world, including walking, orienteering, cycling, mountain biking, bird watching, riding, shooting and fishing – right on the doorstep.

For warmer months lawn games include badminton and croquet. The barbeque facilities are all at hand should the climate be mild. Recently developed is a wild flower meadow area of the garden, which slopes away from the house and has a gazebo seating area, bedecked in crimson roses. Dogs are welcome too in the downstairs area of the house and have their own sleeping area in the boot room.

Crag Hall, with its own dedicated housekeeper, can be rented from £3375 for a three-night weekend stay (or under £160 p.p.) or £4500 per week.

This offer applies when you book your stay prior to the end of January 2016. Professional Chef service is an optional extra.