River Cottage

61 Customer Reviews

• "The cottage was extremely hard to access, the advert states "accessed by a steep narrow path" this is an understatement."

  The path is extremely steep and mostly cobbles, the wet leaves made it slippery too, it would be extremely difficult in bad weather. The cottage itself is really nice it just needs a bit of TLC a lick of fresh paint and replace the missing curtain hooks in the lounge, the small things that gives the place a lift. The toilet stoped flushing on our first night, Dawn arranged for a plumber who fixed it the following morning, but reading previous reviews this has happened before. There wasn't a guide explaining how things work and essential information re: rubbish/recycling, where to leave the bed linen etc. I really think this would have been useful. There were plenty of maps and walking guides within the property and the village was delightful. 3 pubs, little deli shops, and a free small carpark on the edge of the village. Dawn the owner was very helpful when I needed to contact her.

  Reviewed by Angela4.1★Nov 2024

• "We absolutely loved this cottage."

  The path down to it was very steep and we struggled with the luggage a little that said as soon as we were in the cottage it felt like home immediately. Beautiful autumnal bradford dale just a few metres away with as much or as little walking as we wanted and so much to see and explore we never used the car all week apart from a quick call to the shops for some food one day we spent all our time walking by the river so peaceful and relaxing so much so we're have already been back to walk it again after returning home!!! Would highly recommend the cottage for anyone wanting to get away from it all and relax. The cottage had everything we needed and felt homely and warm will definitely be booking to come back soon 5 days was just not enough

  Reviewed by Carl4.1★Oct 2024

• "Lovley cottage ,cosy warm and relaxing,maybe a house book or journal in there ,for feedback to the owner and heating instructions if needed,ect,not for the faint hearted to get to though,very steep long pathway ,with luggage a bit tidious,but for a very fit couple no bother,overall a lovley cottage in a perfect setting,just the incline getting up and down for us."

  But thankyou for a great escape.

  Reviewed by Steve4.4★Sep 2024

• "Lovely cottage containing everything we needed."

  The gardens were still very colourful even in September. The cottage has a beautiful south facing aspect in an idyllic location.

  Reviewed by Geoffrey5.0★Sep 2024

• "The cottage is traditional in style and is lovely and quaint, however, is in need of TLC and could do with a washing machine and new mattresses."

  There was a damp smell in the cottage and on the bedding which was unfortunate and the toilet completely blocked on day two. Perfect size for a couple, but a tad too small for a family of four and a dog. The cottage is within a lovely village with three pubs and a few shops. Perfect for us. Beautifully situated within a short walking distance of the river with nice walks. It is, however, on a very steep bank so if mobility is an issue, this is not the cottage for you. Bakewell and Matlock are close by and are lovely for spending a few hours there seeing the sights and visiting the shops and river. The garden is massive, however, not secure as the gate (which is shared access with other cottages) does not lock (broken) and dogs/small children could easily escape. The very bottom of the garden leads straight onto the roof of someone’s shed on which the roof has partially collapsed. Not entirely safe for animals and young kids. It is a shame that the lower part of the garden is not maintained as it could be absolutely beautiful if a little care was given to it. Communication with the owner was good before and during our stay and they can offer tips and advice on places to go and see and walks to take part in. They can email local walks, but we did find a laminated pack in the cottage with lots of suggestions on. All in all, we had a nice weekend break and would give 3/5 stars.

  Reviewed by Michelle3.4★Aug 2024

• "The cottage was extremely dirty."

  There is bed bugs on the bed. The sofa hadn’t been cleaned in months, as husband spilt a bit of tea and went to clean it up and the amount of dirty and grime that came off was disgusting. The pillows were smelly. The cottage smelt musty. Dust and cobwebs everywhere. The garden hasn’t been weeded. And is dangerous for dogs and small children. We were so disappointed we left our holiday early!

  Reviewed by Anna1.3★Aug 2024

• "Excellent"

  Reviewed by Andrew5.0★Apr 2024

• "A wonderful first visit to River Cottage."

  Lovely to walk into a clean and warm cottage after arriving later than planned. Lovely lounge/diner area and comfy sofas with a log fire as a focal point. Stayed in a few cottages in the area and this was by far the best shower we’ve had (even if over bath). Just loved the position of the cottage in wonderful Youlgrave. Waking to the sound of bird song and the sound of the river was just amazing. If anyone needs a break away from it all, this is the place to come. Thank you Dawn (we appreciated your welcome phonecall)

  Reviewed by Clair5.0★Jan 2024

• "We have been to youlgrave many times and stayed in a few cottages, this cottage is very comfortable but a few things should be looked into."

  The toilet blocked on the second day, we tried and succeeded in unblocking it but it was a problem and kept blocking, the microwave is very rusty and we we’re actually frightened to use it, the cleaning needs to be more thorough as sofas had damp/mould all down the sides, dust on the back and the rug was full of dog hair !! All that said the beds were very comfortable and the cottage was very sweet, if things were put right then it would be perfect. Very very steep path going down but we knew that as stayed at Bankside before.

  Reviewed by Julie2.5★Nov 2023

• "Fantastic place couldn't fault anything we've loved it"

  Reviewed by John5.0★Sep 2023

• "Accomadation perfectly placed , quiet, relaxing with home comforts to enjoy your time in the cottage after exploring."

  The cottage is very well quipped. We enjoyed Sitting in the garden listen to wildlife ,children playing in the river Views are amazing, with the added bonus of river a few steps away. Where you can explore Derbyshire footpaths. Finding breathtaking views on-long the way. My daughter loved the explore theses paths for her morning run , finishing off with a swim in the located spot in the river at the foot of the cottage to cool off. The village has brilliant pubs, cafes , deli , village store at your disposal within walking distance that have great pastries , pies , cakes The Bulls head I personally enjoyed my fish and chips. Wow the best I have every had , couldn’t believe was gluten free so a massive treat for me. Access down the path is quite steep in places, but hand rails are there to support you if required. We loved our week stay. Happily would have stayed longer. My teenagers said can’t wait to come back in the winter to enjoy brisk walks followed by cosy nights by the wood-burner. I visit Derbyshire throughout the year several times both with my children , husband , friends.This cottage in Youlgreave is perfect any time of year. Be back soon The Barker Family

  Reviewed by Rebecca5.0★Aug 2023

• "Lovely property, fully equipped with everything you could possibly need."

  Excellent central base for exploring surrounding area. Parking a bit of a lottery but managed. Path to access the cottage is rather steep but fine if you take your time. The location and cottage makes up for it though x

  Reviewed by Lynsey5.0★Apr 2023

• "Lovely cottage and fantastic location."

  Well worth carrying things down the path to have peace, car-free quiet, and birdsong. We also appreciated the care taken inside for both comfort and aesthetics. It was a lovely change to see some good pieces of furniture instead of the usual orange pine everywhere. Thank you

  Reviewed by Peta4.1★Mar 2023

• "This is a cosy, well-equipped and dog-friendly cottage in a beautiful location."

  The pathway to access the house from the road is steep, and definitely worth bearing in mind if you have any mobility issues. The owner provided a very helpful YouTube video of this before arriving. The house has everything I needed for a very relaxing stay. Great base for a walking holiday, with local shops and pubs a few minutes away.

  Reviewed by Cath5.0★Mar 2023

• "A lovely comfortable cottage."

  Well equipped. Tranquil location with many lovely walks from the door. Sunny garden overlooking the river. Parking and access may be a problem for some, but perfect for those who enjoy walking.

  Reviewed by Kate4.7★Mar 2023

• "It is a lovely cottage, steep walk down but we loved the walk to the house."

  Well equipped and Youlgrave is stunning. We ate at the Bulls head, good food and a roaring fire. The owners were so helpful too with recommendations about the area. All perfect!

  Reviewed by Usoa5.0★Feb 2023

• "I thoroughly enjoyed my stay."

  It is a beautiful tranquil location. The village pubs all serve great food.

  Reviewed by Ruth5.0★Nov 2022

• "Lovely cottage just a bit out of the way down that steep bank, also couldn’t ..."

  Lovely cottage just a bit out of the way down that steep bank, also couldn’t get the gas grill to work, couldn’t find internet password and would of bn nice to have some wood to use log burner

  Reviewed by Vanessa4.4★Nov 2022

• "Lovely, quaint cottage in a quiet village, in a beautiful setting just 10 minutes from Bakewell."

  Parking was not as easy as hoped and so we used the public carpark at the top of the village. The access to the cottage was down a very steep path which can be slippy in damp weather, unlikely to be suitable for anyone with walking difficulties or lots of heavy luggage.

  Reviewed by Caroline3.1★Oct 2022

• "A super little cottage in a peaceful setting and perfect location."

  The cottage was very clean and the kitchen well equipped. We absolutely loved our stay and will definitely be visiting again. Thank you. X

  Reviewed by Steven5.0★Jul 2022

• "Lovely cottage, really comfortable and everything in it was nice and worked fully."

  We have been in some cottages where it’s furnished with old, tatty and non working items. This is lovely. So comfortable. Lovely garden, perfect peaceful break.

  Reviewed by Kay5.0★Jun 2022

• "Loved the cottage, loved the location (to hill is a bit of a killer) the view ..."

  Loved the cottage, loved the location (to hill is a bit of a killer) the view and area are great, perfect base for exploring the Peaks

  Reviewed by Jeff5.0★Jun 2022

• "Lovely cosy property, ideally located near to the River."

  Must be fit and able, as steep hills to and from road where car has to be parked. Peaceful stay, would love to return in the future. Could not find bins, left all rubbish in black bin liner.

  Reviewed by Debbie4.4★Apr 2022

• "A comfortable ,traditional cottage."

  Nice and warm. Fabulous, quiet location , and great village. Sunny aspect too? Path down from road a bit longer than we thought and steepish as described. Great walking opportunities from doorstep. Our dog enjoyed this too.Nice pub too, The Bulls Head.

  Reviewed by Annette4.7★Mar 2022

• "Lovely place great exercise going up and down cottage was lovely oscar loved the river couldnt fault it ."

  Food was great at the bulls head and the farmyard

  Reviewed by Elizabeth5.0★Nov 2021

• "Lovely cottage with friendly, helpful owners."

  Great walks from the doorstep, and not far from interesting places to visit. Second time we have stayed in this cottage, the last time was 12 years ago, we remembered how pretty the area was, and it is still just as lovely. Definitely not one for anyone with walking difficulties, as its position is on a steep hill, but it is great exercise.

  Reviewed by Karen5.0★Sep 2021

• "The cottage is situated in a beautiful setting, it is very peaceful and close to the river Bradford which is very pretty."

  We managed to park in the car park in the village. The access to two other cottages is through River Cottages garden which is slightly disturbing especially when you have a dog and the neighbours leave the gate open. The cottage itself was very pretty but in need of some updating and the cleaning could have been improved, the bbq was not cleaned and the bins were full of rubbish and overflowing outside the kitchen window. It was a shame to no longer have a washing machine and have to take our own towels. Overall a lovely stay in a beautiful setting, just some areas could have been improved.

  Reviewed by Rebecca3.1★Jul 2021

• "We booked our break in 2019, sadly because of Covid we had to move our stay here to 2021."

  In that time I developed spinal problems so struggled with the position of the cottage either direction to or from the cottage. The property itself was lovely, a fantastic setting also, our only issues were we couldn't understand why the late (5pm) check in as the property was not even smelling freshly cleaned, the bbq had not been cleaned neither had the log burner. The cottage has massive potential but it is a little turned and could do with some redecoration on the woodwork, also loose taps and broken toilet seat, and an uncomfortable sofa, but all in all a lovely cottage.

  Reviewed by Sharon3.1★Jun 2021

• "Lovely cottage."

  Really enjoyed our stay, lots of excellent walks in the area. It was great to sit outside the cottage and listen to all the birds singing in the valley. Worth watching the YouTube video of the walk down to the cottage as in reality it didn't feel as long! It is a steep path but manageable if you are fairly fit. Parking was not an issue, though one evening we parked in the public car park by the village hall. Worth noting that two other properties are accessed by the path in front of the cottage so if you have a dog, this may disturb them - ours got used to it, eventually.

  Reviewed by Margaret4.7★Jun 2021

• "The cottage is in a beautiful setting, peaceful yet still in the village and all the amenities."

  It’s down a steep path and this would be difficult for less than fit people to navigate. The cottage is small and compact but well equipped, there is a need for some updating in the bathroom fittings but everything works. The standard of cleanliness was largely good. It would have been good to have instructions for some things like TV, heating etc. All in all, we would return to River Cottage, but would pack as light as possible.

  Reviewed by Shena4.1★May 2021

• "The description of the path to the cottage is not that accurate - a path steep in places does not describe the significant climb down to and back up from the cottage."

  This was difficult for my father with a heart condition.

  Reviewed by Vanessa3.1★Apr 2021

• "The cottage is situated in a beautiful village with all amenities."

  ..pubs, shop, bakery etc. The walk down to the cottage is steep and a bit of a struggle with cases, but worth it for the peaceful, out of the way position. Sat in the garden watching the birds and squirrels with a glass of wine in hand...bliss! Indoors the cottage has everything you need for a comfortable week, but is in need of some decoration and upgrading. A problem with the bath tap was reported at the beginning of the week, a quick response from the owner was forthcoming, but no repairs were made.

  Reviewed by Lisa3.8★Sep 2020

• "River Cottage in Youlgreave was perfect, it had everything we needed for a short break."

  In a beautiful location - the river below was such a bonus. It was well equipped and felt homely, even with the stuff that had been taken out for Covid. The village has three pubs and a shop. Lots of lovely walks on the doorstep and plenty to visit nearby. Steep access as described - we loved the location, but definitely not for the unfit or anyone with mobility issues.

  Reviewed by Marilyn5.0★Aug 2020

• "This was a lovely cottage, set halfway down a steep hill, so access is limited (but it does state that in the booking info!"

  ) The cottage is well set up with everything you need. We cooked a Sunday roast without bother! The beds are comfortable and bathroom a good size. It’s a beautiful ares with lovely walks. We walked across to birchover, the pub there was very friendly. As was the bulls head in youlgreave. Both dog friendly too. I would definitely look at going back. The owner was also very informative and happy to help with any questions or concerns.

  Reviewed by Sarah5.0★Mar 2020

• "The cottage could do with a good clean , here was dust and dirt around the cottage and the carpet seemed not to have been hovered prior to our visit , the kitchen floor hadn’t been mopped either , there was a musky smell in the kitchen when we arrived."

  Reviewed by Ellis1.9★Feb 2020

• "Met our friends at the cottage, the approach to the cottage is very steep and narrow, but it was exactly as described."

  the owner posted a helpful video of the path to assist locating the cottage. Nice cosy cottage with a lovely view over the river valley. Ideal location for walking in the local dales. Nice pubs and a small shop in the village. Only 10 minutes by car to Bakewell. Overall a very pleasant stay in a lovely part of the peaks.

  Reviewed by Antony4.7★Jan 2020

• "Cottage would have got a 10 but the incline to reach it is super steep and very difficult to walk up and down also parking wasn't great either."

  ..as in none if you found a spot you had to stay in it because if you moved someone else took it...that being said it was xmas so village was busy...cottage itself looked amazing when we arrived...from the wreath on the door to the large real Christmas tree in lounge it looked fantastic and made us feel super christmassy...all in all we had a great stay lovely village and would recommend The bull for food and drinks...very friendly....would return maybe in the summer next time....

  Reviewed by Joe5.0★Dec 2019

• "Really lovely and peaceful location."

  Ample amenities in the village and very welcoming pubs.

  Reviewed by Tom5.0★Dec 2019

• "This cottage was awful."

  Filthy dirty very run down and damp. The money we paid did not reflect the standard of the property. I have photographic evidence and shall be making a formal complaint.

  Reviewed by Jemma1.3★Aug 2019

• "Loved River Cottage and how homely it felt."

  A true little haven! Amazing location and the steep walk down was perfectly described... we got more used to the trek up and down from the cottage after a day or so! Great of you to arrange fantastic weather for us too.. couldn’t keep the kids or dog out of the river! Owner very friendly and helpful when calling re key collection and offered lots of tips of things to do, places to see.

  Reviewed by Samantha4.7★Aug 2019

• "The steep hill to the cottage takes some getting used to, but the location by the river is absolutely idyllic, will definitely be back!"

  Reviewed by Jonathan4.4★Aug 2019

• "Excellent cottage; excellent holiday."

  This is the only cottage in which we have stayed to which we should be happy to return again; usually we prefer to choose a new place each time,

  Reviewed by Gwynedd5.0★Aug 2019

• "Probably more should be made in the booking information that the property is down a very steep path."

  It would be totally unsuitable for the infirm, wheelchairs and pushchairs. Communication from owner was poor. Even though he knew the property was booked out for the days we stayed there, it took various phone calls to mobiles and to Sykes themselves and still we couldn't get hold of him. We arrived at stated time and couldn't get into property for another 45 minutes. The owner eventually rang us and gave us the keycode. Why could this have not been sent to us on the day? My mobile number was left with both him and Sykes, so why did we have to wait for the code. Surely it could have been text to us on the day as he knew what time we were arriving. Not a good start to the holiday. Despite all of the above, we very much enjoyed the stay and the location was superb (apart from steps). Would stay again.

  Reviewed by Karen3.4★Jul 2019

• "Great week in river cottage Youlgreave, fantastic location total peace only the birds singing and the river flowing can you here, walks along the river every day with pooch, swimming area not far as well if the weather is hot enough,All in all great village to visit 3 great pubs good bakery post Office shop all good , will go back."

  Reviewed by Ernie5.0★Jul 2019

• "Lovely cottage in a beautiful setting."

  Helpful host. There is a swimming pond on the river below - great if you are lucky with the weather!

  Reviewed by Emily5.0★Jun 2019

• "Lovely weekend away in a beautifully situated cottage"

  Reviewed by Mark3.8★Apr 2019

• "A tranquil setting and lovely cosy cottage for us 2 adults."

  The doorstep walks along the river were great. The cottage was well equipped with everything we needed and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to others. However, do look for sign called Bank Side, which is the start of the footpath down to River cottage. Bankside is pretty much opposite the Methodist Chapel and just up from pub carpark. A very peaceful and enjoyable location, the steep path up and down keeps you fit!

  Reviewed by Julia5.0★Mar 2019

• "Contact with owner Mr Clark before we arrived was most helpful, lovely man."

  ...and we plan to stay a further two weeks, this is not the end yet - so glad that we took the chance, sight unseen, of booking from our home in Canada for such a long stretch....it has been most restful and wonderful....the many different species of birds chirping and singing all day, the rush of the river down the path, the friendly neighbours and villagers, and the signs of early spring in the blossoms, daffodils, and treebuds....and the lush green of the countryside.....so glad we came here.....

  Reviewed by Robert5.0★Mar 2019

• "Great little cottage."

  Cosy and warm on our arrival. Lovely terrace at the front of the cottage, which looks out over the river and the valley. Would love to return in warmer weather so that we could sit outside and enjoy the view. Great walks from the front door. Good food at the Farmyard Inn, which was very dog friendly.

  Reviewed by Jane4.4★Feb 2019

• "Lovely cosy cottage in excellent location."

  Fantastic fire for winter, lovely terrace for summer- or sunny winter coffee breaks. Directions to cottage need to be more accurate though.

  Reviewed by Sharon4.4★Jan 2019

• "This was our third time at River cottage, we love the peace and tranquility."

  It is tucked away and the steep hill never bothered us, it’s worth it when you get to the cottage! Well equipped and very warm and cosy, loved the log burner. The views from the garden are beautiful. It needs a lick of paint in places but it did not bother us. We will return again, thanks to the owners who are very helpful.

  Reviewed by Sarah4.7★Nov 2018

• "The property is lovely, well equipped and provided us with a peaceful base to explore."

  Whilst it caused us no problem, there is the potential for some visitors to have problems accessing the property. The steep path down to the property from the road would be difficult for anyone with mobility problems, were unfit or had small children, especially when first arriving and then leaving when shuttling luggage, etc. This perhaps should be made more clear in the information.

  Reviewed by Joanne4.7★Sep 2018

• "Cottage had a lovely atmosphere."

  Kids loved the bunk beds and we found the bed in the main bedroom very comfortable. Couldn’t find central heating controls, but we lit the fire for a couple of hours so it was fine. Location very picturesque. Found a cave about 5 mins along riverside path which took me back to my childhood and delighted the kids. They also loved the nearby wildlife garden (signposted from the path down to the cottage). Whilst we found parking space, I wouldn’t describe it as abundant. Local pub busy but excellent food.

  Reviewed by Phil4.4★Sep 2018

• "Stunning cottage and beautiful area perfect for dog walking."

  Local pubs were amazing and friendly with delicious grub and all let dogs in.

  Reviewed by David4.7★Jul 2018

• "We had a great holiday,the cottage was very quaint and in a good location ."

  Reviewed by Malcolm3.8★Jun 2018

• "Google earth does not show how steep and uneven the 50m track down to the cottage is."

  The unfit or people with a buggy or heavy/wheeled luggage would struggle. Use a back pack! Can't drive within 50m. Neighbours and situation fantastic. The shower and WiFi are fantastic. Tv only did Netflix and YouTube. (Might have been us!) Beds comfortable, lots of pillows. Curtains let too much light in. Huge BBQ. Modernised and fully functional where it matters. Families will love the casual, back to nature, informality and safety of this rural cottage. Best for walking and playing in streams.

  Reviewed by Charlotte4.1★Jun 2018

• "I arrived on the monday and found the cottage after asking a local(the lane bankside wasn,t opp the farmyard inn but to the right about on 30yards from the end of the inn car park)and not sign posted."

  To get to the cottage was down a steep lane ,path,cobbled,we passed lots of lovely cottages getting to riverside.the cottage was very nice.furniture for us was a bit dull but pleasant.plenty of hot water,and heating if you needed it on.the views from the bed rooms was brill,looking over the little river and valley.the garden was very nice ,wild flowers all over,a nice table and chairs on the front patio,steps going down to the garden.we went down to the river and crossed over a little bridge and walked for miles along the river untill it petered out,we saw all sorts of ducks,trout ,loads of different birds.we even got chased by a herd of mad cows.the village is realy lovely loads of cottages,nooks and craneys.three pubs,a few shops, a butchers.if your eating out i think you can,t go wrong with the farmyard inn,the food is very good and not to pricey ,a good selection,we ate twice there and we recommend booking before you go.every one we met in the village were very friendly and helpfull.if you fancey fish and chips,the george at the end of the village do a fantastic take away(big cod),but i would drive along to the george as its a fair walk by the time you walk up from the cottage(your legs feel there giving up)and a good walk along the main street to the george.yes we would stay there again the location was perfect,.the only draw back was there wasn,t any toilet rolls,(we forgot to bring some) but we left some for next guest.theres no freezer and no ice box in fridge so don,t bring any frozen food unless your eating it the day you arrive

  Reviewed by John3.8★Jun 2018

• "If you need somewhere to get away from it all and that you can take your dog this is the place, lovely walks along the river a really lovely part of our country."

  Reviewed by Kevin5.0★Jun 2017

• "Quant cottage with a modern feel!"

  Beautiful area! A great place to relax and get away from busy life!

  Reviewed by Diane4.2★Nov 2016

• "Really enjoyed it - great cottage , had everything we needed - even didn't mind the dangerously steep steps to reach it."

  Local shops are bereft of anything meaningful so we would recommend visiting stock up in Bakewell before arriving. FarmYard Inn was okay food wise and reasonably priced.

  Reviewed by Craig5.0★Nov 2016

• "Wonderful location!"

  The cottage was warm and cosy, and we enjoyed our stay. We did had some trouble finding the cottage, as the directions tell you to take the path opposite the pub car park, but we actually needed to take the next path further up the hill. A passerby was happy to help us out!

  Reviewed by Pamela4.4★Oct 2016

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