Church Barn is nestled in the heart of a charming Peak District village – Middleton-by-Youlgrave. There are no shops or pubs in the village. It is mainly a farming community, with a quaint children’s playground in the square. It makes for a very peaceful escape, which we hope will help you to unwind and feel more in touch with nature.

This beautiful part of the Derbyshire Dales can be enjoyed at any time of the year. In fact, sometimes is does feel as though only the seasons seem to change over the years here. In the winter months, there is the unmistakable smell of wood burners around the village. When the snow falls, covering the church roof, it looks like a picture postcard. Blossom buds and the sound of birds singing in the springtime bring a new song to the village, awakening the senses. Summer is a tapestry of colours in the daytime, with lazy hazy long evenings that seem to go on forever. Autumn lends itself to conker hunting, blackberry picking, and a new world of warm colours becomes our village backdrop.

The year-round natural beauty brings many visitors to this part of the Peak District National Park, officially recognised as an area of outstanding natural beauty. Friendly locals, artists, farmers as well as walkers and cyclists passing through, add a touch of community to our otherwise tranquil village. You are a welcome addition to this haven.

Places to Visit:

There are so many wonderful places to visit and adventures to be had in this part of the Peak District. Here are just a few of our favourites to get you inspired.

Chatsworth House
With extensive formal gardens, a children’s playground, farmyard, several eateries, and events throughout the year, this historic house is well worth a visit! Chatsworth has many “claims to fame”, but you may recognise it from the more recent film adaptations of Pride and Prejudice. Chatsworth is always a wonderful day out.

Monsal Trail
This former Midland Railway Line has been converted into a family friendly route for cyclists and walkers to enjoy. Take in the beautiful scenery along part (or all!) of this 85-mile, traffic-free haven. There is cycle hire at the beginning of the route at the disused Hassop Station, which has also been converted into a café.

Thornbridge Hall
Enjoy a peaceful stroll around the quaint gardens at Thornbridge Hall, the original home of the local beer bearing its name. There is a café, garden centre and usually some crafts to do for the children – check their website or call ahead for the latest news and events.

Bakewell
You can’t go wrong with a trip to Bakewell. A historic market town with many preserved buildings, it really is a gem to be admired. Whether you are looking for somewhere to enjoy a meal, do a spot of shopping, take a walk along the river, or enjoy just taking in all of the surroundings as you stroll down quintessentially English streets, there is something for everyone. (Our top tip – Bakewell can get busy because it is such a beautiful spot, so we like to visit later in the afternoon or evening when many of the tourists tend to be heading home.)

Buxton
A historic thermal spa town with beautiful architecture, ornamental gardens, and plenty of independent shops and cafes, Buxton is lovely place to visit. The town has many festivals throughout the year, as well as an opera house and the recently restored Buxton Crescent, which is home to a luxury spa.

Matlock Bath
This Peak District village sits along a wide river where there are often row boats for hire. There are plenty of ice creams and fish & chip shops! But our favourite is a cable car trip up to the Heights of Abraham. A hilltop park with spectacular views of the valley below. There are caverns to explore, places to eat, as well as play areas for the children. It’s rather steep so not for the faint hearted – you’ll get plenty of exercise!

Hathersage Outdoor Swimming Pool
A heated, outdoor swimming pool in the picturesque village of Hathersage. You do need to book in advance, as the pool is understandably quite popular, especially in the warmer weather. After your swim you could explore the little village famous for its walks as well as its numerous pubs and cafes.