Sage the Owl

Although you’re surrounded by the fields and fells of Derbyshire’s peaceful countryside here, this family-sized home is just a fifteen-minute drive from the centre of Derby. You’ve got cycleways and walking trails on your doorstep, and museums of industry, galleries and a beautiful gothic cathedral to explore in nearby Derby.

On arrival, this place rises up like a striking, red-brick barn. The lawns are vast – perfect for kids that want to run around and let off steam. The back garden is home to a private hot tub for post-walk soaks and outdoor dining on the patio overlooking the bucolic Derbyshire scenery.

Inside, the design embraces the country aesthetic with a wood-burning stove in the brick fireplace in the living room, arrow-slit windows showing how thick the stone walls are, and old wooden lintels on display in the sloped bedrooms. The kitchen is modern farmhouse-style with an island providing plenty of room to prep for big family meals, and the dining room is a delightful place to gather on plush velvet chairs. An added bonus is the deep soaking tub in the man bathroom – the ideal tonic for a day walking in the country.

Home truths:
*One of the bedrooms has a double bed and two single beds so would be best suited to a family who doesn't mind sharing
*There is a twin bedroom and bathroom on the ground floor that has been adapted for wheelchair users
*Your host can provide a cot and high chair for infants, just ask
*There is room for six cars in the open-air private parking at this home
*In a remote location, having a car is recommended
*One basket of logs is provided for the wood-burner
*You'll have your own private entrance here
*Though there isn't a dedicated desk here, the dining table doubles up as a laptop-friendly workspace