The Old Orchard

Dovedale is one of the most ambiant parts of the Peak District. In this area there are particularly fine views of the Mainfold Valley, which runs down into the Dale from Thorpe Cloud - one of several 1000 foot hills in the Park.

On the edge of Thorpe village is a picturesque stone house of a traditional style, which stands where once an orchard of damson trees grew. This is the Old Orchard, comfortable home of Barbara Challinor and her husband; keen gardeners, as is obvious from the herbacious beds, stone terraces, rock garden and stream with waterfalls in their sloping, landscaped grounds. Guest's comments: ideal hostess, excellent and went out of her way to make us welcome, excellent accomodation, homely and friendly people, most satisfying accomodation with friendly atmosphere.

This part of the National Park is known as 'the White Peak' because the underlying rock is limestone (further north, in 'the Dark Peak', the geology changes). There is a network of paths around here by which to explore Milldale, Wolfscote Dale and Beresford Dale.

Scenery is not the only attraction of the area. There are the stately homes of Chatsworth and Haddon Hall to visit, the old towns of Matlock and Bakewell, and busy Ashbourne with a splendid church and antiques salesroom.

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