Spotlight On Local Favourites: Attractions, Shops & More

Discover a handpicked selection of our favourite places to visit—from charming independent shops and cosy cafés to unforgettable attractions and hidden gems just a short journey from Alder Barn Retreat. Let these local highlights inspire your next adventure.

 

denstone hall farm shop and cafe

Denstone Hall Farm Shop & Cafe

Denstone Hall Farm Shop & Café is a family-run destination set in a beautifully restored milking parlour, offering locally sourced produce, homemade food, and scenic countryside views. The award-winning café serves fresh, seasonal dishes and indulgent treats, while the on-site boutique shops add to the relaxed, rural experience. It’s a perfect stop for quality food, gifts, and a taste of Staffordshire charm.

 

Hoar Cross Hall, Spa

Hoar Cross Hall is a luxurious Grade II listed country estate nestled in the Staffordshire countryside, seamlessly blending historic charm with modern indulgence. Originally constructed between 1862 and 1871 in a Jacobean architectural style, the hall now serves as a premier hotel and spa resort. Guests can enjoy state-of-the-art spa facilities, including hydrotherapy pools and relaxation lounges, as well as elegant dining experiences in its ornate restaurants. Set amidst 43 acres of beautifully manicured gardens, Hoar Cross Hall offers a tranquil retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation.

 

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books

High Peak Bookstore and Cafe

Located just outside Buxton in the Peak District, is a delightful destination for book lovers and food enthusiasts alike. Spanning 5,000 square feet, the store offers an extensive selection of discounted books across various genres, including a dedicated children's section with a charming woodland theme. The on-site café serves a variety of homemade dishes, cakes, and beverages, catering to diverse dietary preferences with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. With its welcoming atmosphere, dog-friendly policy, and ample free parking, it's an ideal spot to relax and indulge in literary and culinary delights.

 

Emma Bridgewater

Nestled in the heart of Stoke-on-Trent, the Emma Bridgewater Factory is a must-visit destination for lovers of pottery, design, and hands-on creativity. Housed in a beautifully restored Victorian factory, this vibrant spot offers a unique glimpse into traditional British craftsmanship, with guided tours showcasing every step of the pottery-making process. Visitors can paint their own pieces in the decorating studio, browse the factory shop for iconic hand-decorated ceramics, and discover exclusive seconds and discontinued lines at great value. The cozy on-site café serves up delicious, locally sourced meals, snacks, and afternoon teas in charming surroundings. With a pretty courtyard garden, friendly staff, and regular workshops and events, it’s a warm and inspiring place to spend a leisurely day.

 

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stepping-stones-ilam-park-dovedale-and-the-white-peak-derbyshire-1394466

Ilam, National Trust Park and Village

Set in the scenic Manifold Valley within the Staffordshire Peak District, Ilam is a charming village known for its Alpine-style cottages and peaceful countryside setting. Surrounded by rolling hills and riverside walks, it’s an ideal base for exploring nearby beauty spots like Dovedale and Thorpe Cloud. At the heart of the village lies Ilam Park, managed by the National Trust, where visitors can enjoy tranquil gardens, riverside trails, and the welcoming Manifold Tea Room. Highlights include the historic Ilam Hall and the 12th-century Church of the Holy Cross. With its picturesque views and relaxed atmosphere, Ilam offers a perfect countryside escape.

 

Thors Cave

Set high above the Manifold Valley in the Staffordshire Peak District, Thor’s Cave is a striking natural cavern that captivates hikers and photographers alike. Carved into a limestone crag, the cave offers breathtaking views across the valley and is easily reached via a short, scenic walk from the nearby village of Wetton. The path winds through lush woodland and open fields, making it a popular route for families and walkers of all abilities. Rich in history and folklore, the cave has yielded prehistoric remains and continues to inspire curiosity and wonder. With its dramatic setting and peaceful surroundings, Thor’s Cave is a memorable stop for anyone exploring the area.

 

thors cave
Dovedale

Dovedale

Tucked between the villages of Thorpe and Milldale in the Peak District, Dovedale is a stunning limestone valley famous for its tranquil beauty and iconic stepping stones across the River Dove. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs, caves, and lush greenery, it’s a popular destination for walkers of all ages, with well-marked trails leading to landmarks like Thorpe Cloud and Ilam Rock. The gentle riverside path makes it ideal for families, while more adventurous routes offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Managed by the National Trust, Dovedale is rich in wildlife and history, making it a peaceful and scenic escape for nature lovers and explorers alike.

 

If You Are Looking For ...

Discover a perfect blend of family favourites, relaxing adult-friendly experiences, and much more to explore.

  1. Trentham Monkey Forest 
  2. Unique woodland sanctuary wildlife attraction with 140 free-roaming Barbary macaques in a natural 60-acre woodland. 
  1. Peak Wildlife Park 
  2. Offering up-close encounters with exotic and endangered animals (including polar bears!) in spacious walk-through habitats, set in the countryside. 
  1. Chester Zoo
  2. One of the UK's largest and most celebrated wildlife attractions, home to over 20,000 animals and renowned for its conservation efforts and immersive habitats. 
  1. RSPB Coombes Valley Nature Reserve
  2. In a peaceful woodland haven teeming with birds, butterflies, and wildflowers, perfect for nature lovers and tranquil countryside walks. 
  1. Derby Shopping Centre (The Derbion) 
  2. A large modern shopping center with a wide range of high street stores, restaurants, and entertainment. 
  1. David Mellor Hathersage
  2. Discover beautifully designed British cutlery and homeware at the award-winning design museum, shop, and cafe. 
  1. Live Love Loaf
  2. A delightful artisan bakery known for its fresh sourdough and pastries. 
  1. Dalton's Ice Cream Shop & Hatch
  2. A local favourite serving homemade ice cream and sweet treats from a charming roadside hatch and shop. 
  1. Hartington and the Cheese Shop
  2. Visit this picturesque village and its famous cheese shop filled with regional and artisanal cheeses. 
  1. Cromford Artwright Museum
  2. Step into history at the fascinating museum in the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. 
  1. Wedgewood and Moorcroft
  2. Explore the heritage and craftsmanship behind two of Britain's most iconic pottery brands with museum tours and shoping. 
  1. Grindon
  2. Situated near the southern end of the Peak District National Park, Grindon boasts stunning views over the Manifold Valley and is a gateway to scenic walking routes. 
  1. Rudyard 
  2. A lakeside village west of Leek, famous for Rudyard Lake - a popular spot for boating, walking, and the Rudyard Lake Steam Railway. 
  1. Flash 
  2. Recognized as the highest village in England, Flash offers breathtaking panoramic views and a peaceful, remote atmosphere. 
  1. Cheadle 
  2. A charming Staffordshire town featuring Pugin's Gothic masterpiece, St Giles' Catholic Church, and a bustling local market. 
  1. Biddulph
  2. Home to the National Trust's Biddulph Grange Garden, this Victorian town offers a mix of heritage, green spaces, and welcoming cafes. 
  1. Congleton
  2. A traditional Cheshire market town set by the River Dane, with historic buildings, lovely parks, and independent shops. 
  1. Uttoxeter
  2. A lively market town know for its racecourse, family attractions, and proximity to Alton Towers. 
  1. Tittesworth
  2. Set beneath the Roaches in the Staffordshire Peak District, Tittesworth offers scenic walking trails, a vibrant water sports centre, and a welcoming local pub—perfect for a day of outdoor adventure and relaxation.
  1. Wetton Mill
  2. Nestled in the Manifold Valley, this picturesque spot is ideal for walking, picnics and exploring caves and riverside trails in the Peak District. 
  1. The Roaches 
  2. Providing dramatic gridstones ridges and sweeping views, perfect for both challenging hikes and shorter strolls. 
  1. Thor's Cave 
  2. Combines a short, steep climb with breathtaking views and a fascinating cavern to explore. 
  1. Ilam
  2. Enjoy peaceful riverside and woodland walks in the picturesque village of Ilam, set against the stunning backdrop of the White Peak.
  1. Tittesworth Reservoir
  2. A scenic walking spot with well-maintained trails, wildlife-rich wetlands, and breathtaking views of The Roaches. 
  1. Carsington Water 
  2. Explore miles of waterside paths and countryside trails around this expansive reservoir, perfect for walkers of all abilities. With cafes and a playground for the children. 
  1. Alton Towers 
  2. One of the UK's top theme parks, Alton Towers offers thrilling rides, family attractions, and beautiful gardens set in a historic estate. 
  1. Chatsworth House 
  2. A grand stately home in the heart of the Peak District, Chatsworth features magnificent gardens, art collections, and impressive architecture. 
  1. Bullclough Art School 
  2. A creative retreat tucked away in the moorlands, Bullclough Art School offers workshops and courses in a peaceful, inspiring setting. 
  1. Ashbourne Cinema (Ashbourne Empire Cinema)
  2. A cosy, independent cinema in the heart of Ashbourne showing a mix of new releases and classic favourites in an intimate setting. 
polar bears at the zoo
1 Peak Wildlife Zoo, where you can see a wide range of different animals, including polar bears, making it the perfect place to go as one of the fews zoos to have these amazing creatures in the UK. 

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