Fern Cottage

Up a steep, bumpy road, with no sign of habitation… a mystery tour? Then a sturdy, limestone cottage, with deep-set windows and handsome proportions appears. Turn around, and you’ll stagger at the views over the Staffordshire/Derbyshire hills. There’s even a wall seat from which to enjoy them. Originally the mine manager’s house for nearby copper workings, and then the owners’ family home, it’s been thoughtfully updated without losing authentic charm. Window seats, alcove cupboards and original fireplaces mix with pale colours, cottagey furnishings and a sprinkling of well-chosen antiques to create a calm, tranquil atmosphere. Pale-painted floorboards lend an airy feel to the small, well-kitted kitchen. A window seat plump with cushions and a wood-burning stove make the sitting room cosy while a sunny conservatory extension cleverly doubles as a dining space. Large, light-filled bedrooms and bathroom are comfortably pretty yet unfussy, with wake-you-up views. Go walking and cycling; explore Chatsworth and local industrial heritage. The biggest joy is the secret corners in the terraced gardens, perfect for reading and dreaming.