The Swaledale
Derbyshire, United Kingdom
The Gathering
- Our low price promise from £175 €199 p/n
-
Safari tent
Sleeps 6
- 1 king size room, 2 twin rooms
Suitable for children of all ages
Pets welcome
Overview
The Gathering is a place that defines family holidays; bathing in waterfalls, hikes in the idyllic moorlands of the High Peak and bonfires by the stream. Paraffin lamps and wool-jacketed hot water bottles give you the comfort and tradition of an old Victorian Shooting Lodge, but with the excitement of sleeping under canvas, with stars above and Swaledale sheep below.
Need to cosy up? Each tent has a fire cauldron and bbq and a private deck with comfy chairs or you can build a big bonfire down by the stream.
Kids love clambering up rocks to pick bilberries in the valley above the bluebell woods. Stiffer walks take you on to the Kinder plateau, with views out to the west coast on a clear day, and over the rolling Pennines to the North. To the south is the Iron Age hill fort of Mam Tor, with its caverns open to visitors below. Edale is the starting point for some of the best open-access walks in England and the official start of The Pennine Way. Corner Kirsty or Tommy for advice on suitability, but the meantime check out the ‘Activities’ tab to whet your hiker’s appetite.
Read more
Essentials
The important stuff
- Check in: 4:30 PM
- Check out: 10 AM
- Please bring wellies or walking boots and a torch
- Horses welcome at £50 per day, please call to book
Sleeping arrangements
- 1 king size room, 2 twin rooms
Extra space available
Space for 1 baby no charge. Cot and high chair provided. Please bring your own bedding
Space for 2 pets from £25 per pet per stay for dogs (£25 for up to 2 dogs so you just pay for 1. Please add note to booking if 1 or 2 dogs).
Kids & Pets
Children are very welcome - it's a paradise for them! Dogs and horses also welcome, but sorry no cats
Cooking
- Kitchen equipped with wood fired stove with hob and roasting oven, gas hob, small fridge, sink with hot water
- Outdoor BBQ
- Crockery, cutlery and glassware is provided
Washing
- Private bathroom
- Roll-top bath with shower head
- Flushing loo
Heating, lighting & bedding
- The main source of heat is the wood burner in living space and in bathroom
- Cotton bed linen and towels provided
- Lighting - paraffin lamps, candles and nightlights
- Plug socket available for equipment charging
Entertainment
In the tent:
- OS maps centred on The Gathering
- Board games
On the Rhododendron terrace by the stream:
- Large bonfire area with log seating for up to 15
Read more
Getting there
Grindslow House, Grindsbrook Booth, Edale, Hope Valley, S33 7ZD
Main road turn off: ///query.imprinted.weary
By train
Edale Station is less than 1 mile away and has direct lines from Sheffield and Manchester.
By bus
The nearest bus stop is less than a mile away - you can walk to The Gathering in 15 mins
By car
The Ryedale parking is 20 yards away from the tent with wheelchair access and parking for the other tents is about 150 yards away
From the North East, leave M1 southbound at junction 36, heading for North Sheffield from the roundabout. You are now just under one hour from The Gathering. At next roundabout take third exit onto A616 towards Manchester. After 7 miles turn left to Midhopestones and ‘The Mustard Pot’ pub. Follow that rural road for 20 minutes across Strines Moor until T-junction. Turn right down the hill. At reservoir traffic lights turn left over bridge and continue to Bamford village. At bottom of hill turn right at traffic lights by petrol station. Continue 3 miles to Hope. As you follow road around the right hand side of the church in Hope, turn right just after the Old Hall Inn. You are now on the Edale road. Follow this out of Hope for 5 miles until you come to Edale car park and just after it the main Edale village road on your right. Turn right and continue to the Nags Head pub. Just behind the pub, the road turns from tarmac to gravel – take this gravel road to the end and you will arrive at The Gathering. Our telephone number is 01433 670 203. There is no mobile reception once you enter the Edale valley, so turn it off and relax. NB in case of snow please call ahead as we will need to amend these instructions.
From the South East, leave M1 northbound at junction 29, heading for Chesterfield. You are 50 minutes from Edale at this point. As you enter Chesterfield take the third exit from the large roundabout, following the brown tourist signs for Chatsworth. Take first exit at next roundabout and then keep going straight through Chesterfield, still following Chatsworth signs. Follow A619 to Baslow. In Baslow village turn right at the roundabout by the church, to follow A623 towards Stockport. At traffic lights in Calver next to BP Petrol Station and SPAR shop, turn right. Follow road to Grindleford, and turn left just after the Mount Pleasant Garage, signposted Hathersage. At T-junction in Hathersage turn left and continue to Hope. As the road swings to the right of the church in Hope, turn right onto small Edale road just after the Old Hall Inn. Continue c. 6 miles until you come to Edale car park and just after it the main Edale village road on your right. Turn right and continue to the Nags Head pub. Just behind the pub, the road turns from tarmac to gravel – take this gravel road and you will arrive at The Gathering. Our telephone number is 01433 670 203. There is no mobile reception once you enter the Edale valley, so turn it off and relax. NB in case of snow please call ahead as we will need to amend these instructions.
From the South West, leave M5 northbound at Junction 15 for Stoke. You are now just over one hour from The Gathering. Follow signs for A50, Uttoxeter and Derby. This will bring you onto the dual carriageway A50 Stoke through-road, past the football stadium. Follow the dual carriageway for about 4 miles, looking for sign to LEEK A520 to the left. This takes you off the A50 to a roundabout by the Douglas Macmillan Hospice shop. Turn left at the roundabout and follow A520 to Leek. Beware multiple speed cameras! In Leek after golf course and Co-op Bank roundabout go uphill and then turn right at the traffic lights just after you’ve crested the hill. Go through town centre past war memorial traffic lights, then right at the next traffic lights following A53 for BUXTON. As you come into Buxton continue straight through all junctions until you come to a T-junction in front of the Palace Hotel. Take the road to the right that curls around the hotel, turning left at the next roundabout and past the railway station and ALDI store following signs for Manchester and Stockport A6. These take you straight over next roundabout, then left at 2nd roundabout under railway arches, and left again at 3rd roundabout. This takes you out through the golf course on the A6 towards Stockport. Continue through DOVE HOLES village, and at the roundabout at bottom of hill when you leave Dove Holes, turn right, following sign for Chesterfield. Up the hill to the Wanted Inn (half a mile or so) where you take the left turn with brown tourist sign to Blue John Mine and Castleton. Follow this road for c. 3 miles then swing left, ignoring the right hand turn for Castleton. The road swings back on itself, then as you head uphill with a small wood on your right, you’ll see a small sign for EDALE to the right, through the wood. This takes you over the pass into Edale Valley. Follow the road down and along the bottom of the valley until you reach the sign to the left for Edale station (there is a red telephone box on your right – another clue). Take the road to the left and continue straight ahead for 1 mile, continue past the Nags Head Pub and take the gravel track where the tarmac ends. This is the private drive for The Gathering. Our telephone number is 01433 670 203. There is no mobile reception once you enter the Edale valley, so turn it off and relax. NB in case of snow please call ahead as we will need to amend these instructions.
From the North West, leave M6 at junction 20A onto M56 towards Manchester. You are now just over one hour from The Gathering. From M56 exit at junction 6 Manchester Airport, following signs for WILMSLOW on A538. As you enter Wilmslow, the A538 crosses the railway tracks over a bridge. At next roundabout turn left onto A34. After a few hundred yards turn left at 2nd roundabout, then right at 3rd roundabout just after, onto Dean Row. After a few hundred yards cross the first roundabout, then left at 2nd roundabout by Shell petrol station. At next roundabout turn right. You are now on B5358. After two miles you pass some plant nurseries, then the road takes a sharp right. On that corner, you turn left, signposted Adlington Hall. Continue on that road straight over traffic light junction by the Legh Arms pub. Follow the country road up onto the moor until you get to Pott Shrigley, where you turn left by the church. Continue climbing until you get to T-junction on the summit. Turn left and continue into WHALEY BRIDGE. At traffic light junction turn left, go through main street and out the other side past Tesco. Turn right at roundabout onto A6. After 2 miles and another roundabout take exit left for Rushup, Edale and Castleton. Follow this road for 2miles until you see Edale turn to your left through a small wood. This takes you up over the pass into Edale Valley. Follow the road down and along the bottom of the valley until you reach the sign to the left for Edale station (there is a red telephone box on your right – another clue). Take the road to the left and continue straight ahead for 1 mile, continue past the Nags Head Pub and take the gravel track where the tarmac ends. This is the private drive for The Gathering. Our telephone number is 01433 670 203. There is no mobile reception once you enter the Edale valley, so turn it off and relax. NB in case of snow, please call ahead as will need to amend these instructions!
Read more
Food & Drink
At The Gathering
Barbecue boxes from award-winning local butcher can be arranged
Pubs & Restaurants
Newfold Farm (1 min walk) - Cafe and bistro close-by
Chinley Old Hall Inn - 20 mins by car, 10 mins by train, 4 hours on foot! - A fine gastro pub and restaurant which is a fitting reward for a beautiful 4 hour walk from The Gathering, yet only a 10 minute return train ride.
The Nags Head and The Rambler Inn - a few hundred yards away - These are the two village pubs. The Nags Head is the official start of the Pennine Way and is a Ramblers’ haven. The Rambler Inn is good for food and has a nice garden with amazing views.
Read more
Activities
Outdoor & Active - Tom & Kirsty can give you a detailed guide on all activities below, but here is a taster of what's on offer
Walks, hikes, rambler, climbs and picnic spots:
Edale is the starting point for some of the best open-access walks in England and the official start of The Pennine Way. There are lots of lovely circular walks and some lower, flatter walks suitable for younger children, alongside some tough climbs and full day out yomps on the top of Kinder Plateau
There are some maps in your tent – if you would like any advice on routes and suitability please corner either Kirsty or Tommy to plan your day out. In the meantime here are some simple routes to get you started…
A Stroll from Edale to Ollerbrook Booth. Circular route. 10 minutes there and 15 minutes back! And very FLAT! Perfect for little ones with little legs and those in the mood for an evening stroll
Up the Nab and down to Ollerbrook and back via Nags Head Pub. Circular route. Allow an hour for grown-up legs. Nice safe walk on a stone path that gets your heart pumping on the climb up and delivers magnificent views of the village and valley below. Ends at the pub for a well-deserved drink
Up Grindsbrook and back to the village along the Pennine Way. Circular Route. Allow 40 minutes – or more if you head further upstream (some great pools and waterfalls to splash in and picnic spots in abundance). Having a picnic in the beautiful open moorland of Grindsbrook with kids building dams in the steam is one of life’s best moments. If the weather isn’t great for a picnic, tog up for wet weather and kids will enjoy leaping over the stream as you climb higher up Grindsbrook – a simple form of canyoning!
Up to Upper Booth and back on lower route. Circular Route. Allow 2.5 hours – a gently rolling walk half way up the valley and back along the bottom of the valley. A lovely afternoon/morning walk which is not too strenuous on the knees (i.e. you are not heading up the tops of the hills but gliding along the middle!). Head to the Rambler for supper or lunch on return
...and some bigger walks:
Around Kinder Plateau- Circular Route - 5 hours - Around Kinder from Grindsbrook and back down Jacob’s Ladder, passing through the incredible Woolpack Stones that inspired artists such as Henry Moore. Refer to map
Over Mam Tor to Castleton or along Mam Tor to Hope- One way return via taxi or train (or walk if feeling hardy!) - 2 hours - Head up Mam Tor (the big across the valley!) – from there you can drop down into Castleton (lots of pubs and cafes for lunch) or keep going along the spine and drop down Losehill to Hope (spa hotel Losehill or The Cheshire Cheese Pub for lunch). Then if the legs are too tired to return, jump on the train back to Edale (one stop from Hope) or call 2Nice taxis in Hope 01433 623427. Trains from Hope (allow 8 minutes journey time) at 14.41; 16.39; 17.39; 18.39; 19.39; 21.09; 23.13 (Sundays 13.40; 15.40; 16.40; 17.40; 18.41; 19.41; 22.40)
Mountain Biking
Edale is teeming with great mountain bike routes right from the village. Please see the maps in the tents for routes. We have a couple of spare bikes here if you haven’t brought your own.
Places to visit
On your doorstep...
The Moorland Centre - if you are new to the area and want to understand the moors, wildlife and management, kick off your visit here. Also if it is chucking it down it is all indoors and – with little children – can fill in a wet morning… walk to the centre, let them run around, then hit a café to recover!
Castles, caves and caverns - there are four show caves open to the public in and around Castleton: Peak Cavern, Speedwell Cavern, Treak Cliff Cavern and Blue John Mine; and Peveril Castle is definitely worth a visit
30 minute radius -
The Plague Village, Eyam - Eyam is a fascinating place to visit and well-worth the 30 minutes’ drive – the small museum is filled with facts that will keep the kids intrigued
The Lido, Hathersage - a great pool for kids and grown-ups (lane swimming down one side) with a fabulous grassy area for lounging. Access to the café from the pool for hot drinks, icecreams and chips! Check the public swimming times with Tom and Kirsty before heading over. A fun day out with the kids is to take the train from Edale then 2 minutes’ walk to the pool, followed by a lazy brunch/lunch at the wonderful Hathersage Social Club (open Thurs – Sunday)
Ladybower Dam - The Three Reservoirs cycle trail - Set amid a landscape of moorland and vast reservoirs, this 18-mile (28.9km) cycle ride circumnavigates the Howden, Derwent and Ladybower reservoirs providing some spectacular views. Suitable as a family cycle-route or for the more energetic riders out there, this impressive location has something for everyone. This 18-mile (28.9km) loop has an undulating but almost continuously hard surface around its length and the paths have recently been improved. The northern edge is the most challenging. These trails are often busy at times with a mixture of cyclists, walkers and horse riders. Cycle hire Derwent- situated in the picturesque Derwent Valley; it is accessed from the A57. START: Fairholmes car park, grid ref: SK173893
Ladybower Fisheries - 13 miles of bank fishing available, with 15 fishing boats for hire
Chatsworth - a visit to Derbyshire without dropping into Chatsworth would be remiss. The children’s play area is incredible with an enormous sandpit and diggers and huge climbing areas. The farmyard allows you to interact with a wide variety of animals and if you are lucky you might catch lambing or the arrival of new piglets! You can pay just for the children’s area without having to buy tickets for the main house
Haddon Hall - a magical place to visit for grown-ups – although older children will be fascinated by the history of the place and incredible old kitchens!
Bakewell - If you like a Bakewell tart or pudding then drop by – but don’t make it a day out in itself… worth a nod if you are heading to Haddon Hall or Chatsworth
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Meet your hosts
Meet Tom & Kirsty
Tom’s family have lived in Edale since 1640, and he and Kirsty took over the farm and shooting estate in 2009. Their dream is to create a wow location for people to come together to relax, to bond, and to be creative. They specialise in family gatherings and cultural retreats. Tom worked for the Flying Doctors in Kenya for 7 years, and was inspired by safari experiences to establish the ambience and luxury of an African safari in this stunning place. Kirsty runs an International Writers’ Retreat, with tutors and students from the world over.
About The Gathering
The Gathering is a private hideaway in the stunning Peak District National Park. Easily accessible by car (3 hrs from London) or train via Edale station, you arrive and imagine yourself to be in the Scottish Highlands: tall gritstone crags lead up to the heather moorland of Kinder Scout from the pretty village of Edale, all quarried from the hills above. Edale is the official start of the Pennine Way and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, but at The Gathering you are blissfully unaware of their presence.
The farm itself was established as a shooting estate in the 1880s and the Victorian shooting lodge has hosted guests ever since, not just for grouse shooting but also for holidays and cultural retreats. The lower pasture holds a flock of hardy swaledale sheep and the moorland above is open to all. The pretty stream of Grindsbrook is a favourite with children – clambering up rocks and waterfalls to pick bilberries in the valley above the bluebell woods. Stiffer walks take you on to the Kinder plateau, with views out to the west coast on a clear day, and over the rolling Pennines to the North. To the south is the Iron Age hill fort of Mam Tor, with its caverns open to visitors below.
Wildlife & Environment
Edale Moor sits on the southern end of the Kinder Plateau, a great Pennine gritstone bathelith that rises from the limestone dales to the South. The Gathering looks onto the Iron Age hill fort of Mam Tor, and is nestled in indigenous woodland along Grindsbrook, the peaty stream that brings beer-coloured water from the moorland above. A 100 m climb takes you onto the heather moorland, with awesome views, rare ground-nesting birds (curlew, plover, lapwing, red grouse), bilberries, and protected peat bogs – the largest natural peat store in Europe. Gritsone crags are home to a nesting pair of Peregrines as well as sparrowhawk and buzzard. Sheep roam without walls on these moorlands, and strange rock formations, weathered by the wind, jut out like Henry Moore sculptures. Edale is the official start of the 256 mile Pennine Way, which climbs the Pennine spine of Britain to Kirk Yetholm in Scotland. The valley is a destination not only for walkers, but also for paragliders, mountain bikers, artists, photographers and writers. Wordsworth wrote of the beauty of Grindsbrook; Lord Byron is an ancestor of Tom’s and wrote of the splendour of the surrounding area of Derbyshire.
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Overview
The Gathering is a place that defines family holidays; bathing in waterfalls, hikes in the idyllic moorlands of the High Peak and bonfires by the stream. Paraffin lamps and wool-jacketed hot water bottles give you the comfort and tradition of an old Victorian Shooting Lodge, but with the excitement of sleeping under canvas, with stars above and Swaledale sheep below.
Need to cosy up? Each tent has a fire cauldron and bbq and a private deck with comfy chairs or you can build a big bonfire down by the stream.
Kids love clambering up rocks to pick bilberries in the valley above the bluebell woods. Stiffer walks take you on to the Kinder plateau, with views out to the west coast on a clear day, and over the rolling Pennines to the North. To the south is the Iron Age hill fort of Mam Tor, with its caverns open to visitors below. Edale is the starting point for some of the best open-access walks in England and the official start of The Pennine Way. Corner Kirsty or Tommy for advice on suitability, but the meantime check out the ‘Activities’ tab to whet your hiker’s appetite.
Read more
-
Essentials
The important stuff
- Check in: 4:30 PM
- Check out: 10 AM
- Please bring wellies or walking boots and a torch
- Horses welcome at £50 per day, please call to book
Sleeping arrangements
- 1 king size room, 2 twin rooms
Extra space available
Space for 1 baby no charge. Cot and high chair provided. Please bring your own bedding
Space for 2 pets from £25 per pet per stay for dogs (£25 for up to 2 dogs so you just pay for 1. Please add note to booking if 1 or 2 dogs).
Kids & Pets
Children are very welcome - it's a paradise for them! Dogs and horses also welcome, but sorry no cats
Cooking
- Kitchen equipped with wood fired stove with hob and roasting oven, gas hob, small fridge, sink with hot water
- Outdoor BBQ
- Crockery, cutlery and glassware is provided
Washing
- Private bathroom
- Roll-top bath with shower head
- Flushing loo
Heating, lighting & bedding
- The main source of heat is the wood burner in living space and in bathroom
- Cotton bed linen and towels provided
- Lighting - paraffin lamps, candles and nightlights
- Plug socket available for equipment charging
Entertainment
In the tent:
- OS maps centred on The Gathering
- Board games
On the Rhododendron terrace by the stream:
- Large bonfire area with log seating for up to 15
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Location
Getting there
Grindslow House, Grindsbrook Booth, Edale, Hope Valley, S33 7ZD
Main road turn off: ///query.imprinted.weary
By train
Edale Station is less than 1 mile away and has direct lines from Sheffield and Manchester.
By bus
The nearest bus stop is less than a mile away - you can walk to The Gathering in 15 mins
By car
The Ryedale parking is 20 yards away from the tent with wheelchair access and parking for the other tents is about 150 yards away
From the North East, leave M1 southbound at junction 36, heading for North Sheffield from the roundabout. You are now just under one hour from The Gathering. At next roundabout take third exit onto A616 towards Manchester. After 7 miles turn left to Midhopestones and ‘The Mustard Pot’ pub. Follow that rural road for 20 minutes across Strines Moor until T-junction. Turn right down the hill. At reservoir traffic lights turn left over bridge and continue to Bamford village. At bottom of hill turn right at traffic lights by petrol station. Continue 3 miles to Hope. As you follow road around the right hand side of the church in Hope, turn right just after the Old Hall Inn. You are now on the Edale road. Follow this out of Hope for 5 miles until you come to Edale car park and just after it the main Edale village road on your right. Turn right and continue to the Nags Head pub. Just behind the pub, the road turns from tarmac to gravel – take this gravel road to the end and you will arrive at The Gathering. Our telephone number is 01433 670 203. There is no mobile reception once you enter the Edale valley, so turn it off and relax. NB in case of snow please call ahead as we will need to amend these instructions.
From the South East, leave M1 northbound at junction 29, heading for Chesterfield. You are 50 minutes from Edale at this point. As you enter Chesterfield take the third exit from the large roundabout, following the brown tourist signs for Chatsworth. Take first exit at next roundabout and then keep going straight through Chesterfield, still following Chatsworth signs. Follow A619 to Baslow. In Baslow village turn right at the roundabout by the church, to follow A623 towards Stockport. At traffic lights in Calver next to BP Petrol Station and SPAR shop, turn right. Follow road to Grindleford, and turn left just after the Mount Pleasant Garage, signposted Hathersage. At T-junction in Hathersage turn left and continue to Hope. As the road swings to the right of the church in Hope, turn right onto small Edale road just after the Old Hall Inn. Continue c. 6 miles until you come to Edale car park and just after it the main Edale village road on your right. Turn right and continue to the Nags Head pub. Just behind the pub, the road turns from tarmac to gravel – take this gravel road and you will arrive at The Gathering. Our telephone number is 01433 670 203. There is no mobile reception once you enter the Edale valley, so turn it off and relax. NB in case of snow please call ahead as we will need to amend these instructions.
From the South West, leave M5 northbound at Junction 15 for Stoke. You are now just over one hour from The Gathering. Follow signs for A50, Uttoxeter and Derby. This will bring you onto the dual carriageway A50 Stoke through-road, past the football stadium. Follow the dual carriageway for about 4 miles, looking for sign to LEEK A520 to the left. This takes you off the A50 to a roundabout by the Douglas Macmillan Hospice shop. Turn left at the roundabout and follow A520 to Leek. Beware multiple speed cameras! In Leek after golf course and Co-op Bank roundabout go uphill and then turn right at the traffic lights just after you’ve crested the hill. Go through town centre past war memorial traffic lights, then right at the next traffic lights following A53 for BUXTON. As you come into Buxton continue straight through all junctions until you come to a T-junction in front of the Palace Hotel. Take the road to the right that curls around the hotel, turning left at the next roundabout and past the railway station and ALDI store following signs for Manchester and Stockport A6. These take you straight over next roundabout, then left at 2nd roundabout under railway arches, and left again at 3rd roundabout. This takes you out through the golf course on the A6 towards Stockport. Continue through DOVE HOLES village, and at the roundabout at bottom of hill when you leave Dove Holes, turn right, following sign for Chesterfield. Up the hill to the Wanted Inn (half a mile or so) where you take the left turn with brown tourist sign to Blue John Mine and Castleton. Follow this road for c. 3 miles then swing left, ignoring the right hand turn for Castleton. The road swings back on itself, then as you head uphill with a small wood on your right, you’ll see a small sign for EDALE to the right, through the wood. This takes you over the pass into Edale Valley. Follow the road down and along the bottom of the valley until you reach the sign to the left for Edale station (there is a red telephone box on your right – another clue). Take the road to the left and continue straight ahead for 1 mile, continue past the Nags Head Pub and take the gravel track where the tarmac ends. This is the private drive for The Gathering. Our telephone number is 01433 670 203. There is no mobile reception once you enter the Edale valley, so turn it off and relax. NB in case of snow please call ahead as we will need to amend these instructions.
From the North West, leave M6 at junction 20A onto M56 towards Manchester. You are now just over one hour from The Gathering. From M56 exit at junction 6 Manchester Airport, following signs for WILMSLOW on A538. As you enter Wilmslow, the A538 crosses the railway tracks over a bridge. At next roundabout turn left onto A34. After a few hundred yards turn left at 2nd roundabout, then right at 3rd roundabout just after, onto Dean Row. After a few hundred yards cross the first roundabout, then left at 2nd roundabout by Shell petrol station. At next roundabout turn right. You are now on B5358. After two miles you pass some plant nurseries, then the road takes a sharp right. On that corner, you turn left, signposted Adlington Hall. Continue on that road straight over traffic light junction by the Legh Arms pub. Follow the country road up onto the moor until you get to Pott Shrigley, where you turn left by the church. Continue climbing until you get to T-junction on the summit. Turn left and continue into WHALEY BRIDGE. At traffic light junction turn left, go through main street and out the other side past Tesco. Turn right at roundabout onto A6. After 2 miles and another roundabout take exit left for Rushup, Edale and Castleton. Follow this road for 2miles until you see Edale turn to your left through a small wood. This takes you up over the pass into Edale Valley. Follow the road down and along the bottom of the valley until you reach the sign to the left for Edale station (there is a red telephone box on your right – another clue). Take the road to the left and continue straight ahead for 1 mile, continue past the Nags Head Pub and take the gravel track where the tarmac ends. This is the private drive for The Gathering. Our telephone number is 01433 670 203. There is no mobile reception once you enter the Edale valley, so turn it off and relax. NB in case of snow, please call ahead as will need to amend these instructions!
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Food & Drink
At The Gathering
Barbecue boxes from award-winning local butcher can be arranged
Pubs & Restaurants
Newfold Farm (1 min walk) - Cafe and bistro close-by
Chinley Old Hall Inn - 20 mins by car, 10 mins by train, 4 hours on foot! - A fine gastro pub and restaurant which is a fitting reward for a beautiful 4 hour walk from The Gathering, yet only a 10 minute return train ride.
The Nags Head and The Rambler Inn - a few hundred yards away - These are the two village pubs. The Nags Head is the official start of the Pennine Way and is a Ramblers’ haven. The Rambler Inn is good for food and has a nice garden with amazing views.
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Experiences
Outdoor & Active - Tom & Kirsty can give you a detailed guide on all activities below, but here is a taster of what's on offer
Walks, hikes, rambler, climbs and picnic spots:
Edale is the starting point for some of the best open-access walks in England and the official start of The Pennine Way. There are lots of lovely circular walks and some lower, flatter walks suitable for younger children, alongside some tough climbs and full day out yomps on the top of Kinder Plateau
There are some maps in your tent – if you would like any advice on routes and suitability please corner either Kirsty or Tommy to plan your day out. In the meantime here are some simple routes to get you started…
A Stroll from Edale to Ollerbrook Booth. Circular route. 10 minutes there and 15 minutes back! And very FLAT! Perfect for little ones with little legs and those in the mood for an evening stroll
Up the Nab and down to Ollerbrook and back via Nags Head Pub. Circular route. Allow an hour for grown-up legs. Nice safe walk on a stone path that gets your heart pumping on the climb up and delivers magnificent views of the village and valley below. Ends at the pub for a well-deserved drink
Up Grindsbrook and back to the village along the Pennine Way. Circular Route. Allow 40 minutes – or more if you head further upstream (some great pools and waterfalls to splash in and picnic spots in abundance). Having a picnic in the beautiful open moorland of Grindsbrook with kids building dams in the steam is one of life’s best moments. If the weather isn’t great for a picnic, tog up for wet weather and kids will enjoy leaping over the stream as you climb higher up Grindsbrook – a simple form of canyoning!
Up to Upper Booth and back on lower route. Circular Route. Allow 2.5 hours – a gently rolling walk half way up the valley and back along the bottom of the valley. A lovely afternoon/morning walk which is not too strenuous on the knees (i.e. you are not heading up the tops of the hills but gliding along the middle!). Head to the Rambler for supper or lunch on return
...and some bigger walks:
Around Kinder Plateau- Circular Route - 5 hours - Around Kinder from Grindsbrook and back down Jacob’s Ladder, passing through the incredible Woolpack Stones that inspired artists such as Henry Moore. Refer to map
Over Mam Tor to Castleton or along Mam Tor to Hope- One way return via taxi or train (or walk if feeling hardy!) - 2 hours - Head up Mam Tor (the big across the valley!) – from there you can drop down into Castleton (lots of pubs and cafes for lunch) or keep going along the spine and drop down Losehill to Hope (spa hotel Losehill or The Cheshire Cheese Pub for lunch). Then if the legs are too tired to return, jump on the train back to Edale (one stop from Hope) or call 2Nice taxis in Hope 01433 623427. Trains from Hope (allow 8 minutes journey time) at 14.41; 16.39; 17.39; 18.39; 19.39; 21.09; 23.13 (Sundays 13.40; 15.40; 16.40; 17.40; 18.41; 19.41; 22.40)
Mountain Biking
Edale is teeming with great mountain bike routes right from the village. Please see the maps in the tents for routes. We have a couple of spare bikes here if you haven’t brought your own.
Places to visit
On your doorstep...
The Moorland Centre - if you are new to the area and want to understand the moors, wildlife and management, kick off your visit here. Also if it is chucking it down it is all indoors and – with little children – can fill in a wet morning… walk to the centre, let them run around, then hit a café to recover!
Castles, caves and caverns - there are four show caves open to the public in and around Castleton: Peak Cavern, Speedwell Cavern, Treak Cliff Cavern and Blue John Mine; and Peveril Castle is definitely worth a visit
30 minute radius -
The Plague Village, Eyam - Eyam is a fascinating place to visit and well-worth the 30 minutes’ drive – the small museum is filled with facts that will keep the kids intrigued
The Lido, Hathersage - a great pool for kids and grown-ups (lane swimming down one side) with a fabulous grassy area for lounging. Access to the café from the pool for hot drinks, icecreams and chips! Check the public swimming times with Tom and Kirsty before heading over. A fun day out with the kids is to take the train from Edale then 2 minutes’ walk to the pool, followed by a lazy brunch/lunch at the wonderful Hathersage Social Club (open Thurs – Sunday)
Ladybower Dam - The Three Reservoirs cycle trail - Set amid a landscape of moorland and vast reservoirs, this 18-mile (28.9km) cycle ride circumnavigates the Howden, Derwent and Ladybower reservoirs providing some spectacular views. Suitable as a family cycle-route or for the more energetic riders out there, this impressive location has something for everyone. This 18-mile (28.9km) loop has an undulating but almost continuously hard surface around its length and the paths have recently been improved. The northern edge is the most challenging. These trails are often busy at times with a mixture of cyclists, walkers and horse riders. Cycle hire Derwent- situated in the picturesque Derwent Valley; it is accessed from the A57. START: Fairholmes car park, grid ref: SK173893
Ladybower Fisheries - 13 miles of bank fishing available, with 15 fishing boats for hire
Chatsworth - a visit to Derbyshire without dropping into Chatsworth would be remiss. The children’s play area is incredible with an enormous sandpit and diggers and huge climbing areas. The farmyard allows you to interact with a wide variety of animals and if you are lucky you might catch lambing or the arrival of new piglets! You can pay just for the children’s area without having to buy tickets for the main house
Haddon Hall - a magical place to visit for grown-ups – although older children will be fascinated by the history of the place and incredible old kitchens!
Bakewell - If you like a Bakewell tart or pudding then drop by – but don’t make it a day out in itself… worth a nod if you are heading to Haddon Hall or Chatsworth
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Your Hosts
Meet Tom & Kirsty
Tom’s family have lived in Edale since 1640, and he and Kirsty took over the farm and shooting estate in 2009. Their dream is to create a wow location for people to come together to relax, to bond, and to be creative. They specialise in family gatherings and cultural retreats. Tom worked for the Flying Doctors in Kenya for 7 years, and was inspired by safari experiences to establish the ambience and luxury of an African safari in this stunning place. Kirsty runs an International Writers’ Retreat, with tutors and students from the world over.
About The Gathering
The Gathering is a private hideaway in the stunning Peak District National Park. Easily accessible by car (3 hrs from London) or train via Edale station, you arrive and imagine yourself to be in the Scottish Highlands: tall gritstone crags lead up to the heather moorland of Kinder Scout from the pretty village of Edale, all quarried from the hills above. Edale is the official start of the Pennine Way and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, but at The Gathering you are blissfully unaware of their presence.
The farm itself was established as a shooting estate in the 1880s and the Victorian shooting lodge has hosted guests ever since, not just for grouse shooting but also for holidays and cultural retreats. The lower pasture holds a flock of hardy swaledale sheep and the moorland above is open to all. The pretty stream of Grindsbrook is a favourite with children – clambering up rocks and waterfalls to pick bilberries in the valley above the bluebell woods. Stiffer walks take you on to the Kinder plateau, with views out to the west coast on a clear day, and over the rolling Pennines to the North. To the south is the Iron Age hill fort of Mam Tor, with its caverns open to visitors below.
Wildlife & Environment
Edale Moor sits on the southern end of the Kinder Plateau, a great Pennine gritstone bathelith that rises from the limestone dales to the South. The Gathering looks onto the Iron Age hill fort of Mam Tor, and is nestled in indigenous woodland along Grindsbrook, the peaty stream that brings beer-coloured water from the moorland above. A 100 m climb takes you onto the heather moorland, with awesome views, rare ground-nesting birds (curlew, plover, lapwing, red grouse), bilberries, and protected peat bogs – the largest natural peat store in Europe. Gritsone crags are home to a nesting pair of Peregrines as well as sparrowhawk and buzzard. Sheep roam without walls on these moorlands, and strange rock formations, weathered by the wind, jut out like Henry Moore sculptures. Edale is the official start of the 256 mile Pennine Way, which climbs the Pennine spine of Britain to Kirk Yetholm in Scotland. The valley is a destination not only for walkers, but also for paragliders, mountain bikers, artists, photographers and writers. Wordsworth wrote of the beauty of Grindsbrook; Lord Byron is an ancestor of Tom’s and wrote of the splendour of the surrounding area of Derbyshire.
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Reviews
Our guests say...
Diane
Had a absolutely fabulous time with our 3 grandchildren.They had fun in the brook ,walking,and enjoyed playing and talking to each other instead of looking at screens!!. Tommy Kirsty and Geoff were fantastic hosts and catered to our every need especially when we had to visit the hospital with our grandson .They were very helpful to us.On getting home the first thing they said to their parents "can we please go back there it was brilliant".Full marks indeed.
29/07/2019elizabeth
We had a fantastic stay. The most luxurious glamping - cosy bedrooms with electric blankets and really comfortable beds, lovely big sitting room/kitchen with everything you need and the luxury of a powerful shower too. We enjoyed the paraffin lamps and the woodburner to warm the tent and to cook on, and the kids enjoyed all the games to play. Above all the tent was in the most perfect position - near a stream to paddle and play in, and on the edge of beautiful countryside and hills to walk in. Everyone was so friendly and helpful - a log delivery every day and lots of advice on walks. We will be back, Thank you!
08/04/2019Ruth
We had a lovely time in Edale this week. The Gatherings is located in a wonderful spot, in the village but on the edge surrounded by private land running along a clean beautiful stream with sheep watching on the hillside. The Safari tent was spotlessly clean, full of useful items i.e. electric blankets on the beds as the nights were surprisingly cold for August! As there were five of us and a dog we had travelled up from London in teo cars. Unfortunately the alternator went on one of he cars. Tommy gave us the details of a wonderful garage in "Hope" who fixed the car within two day and in the meantime Tommy and Kirsty were extremely generous and lent us their car for a trip to Chatsworth House. Tommy and Kirsty are the most wonderful hosts, nothing is too much trouble and they have thought of everything to make your hoilday really enjoyable. The location is brilliant for walks in the area and we built up to a 12 km Peak walk on our final day, compete with picnic, and returned buzzing from the wonderful view but some of us (me) more wrecked than others! The day was finished off with a lovely soak in the rolltop bath whilst the others slaved over the BBQ!
27/08/2018Suki
Absolutely loved the Gathering. Tent was all mod cons. Really warm with the stove and the fire pit. Catered for every whim right down to electric blankets! Loved that there were only 4 tents so not a big campsite. Jeff, the estate manager was charming. There are so many walks and views right on the doorstep. No need to get in the car.
17/08/2018Christina
Everything was perfect - even the weather! Tommy, Kirsty and Geoff welcomed us like long lost friends and were always on hand to help with arranging activities or ideas for day trips. Their enthusiasm and passion for the project really shone through. We didn't quite realise just how much there is to see and do in the area - we had to specifically set aside time for relaxing at our tent, as we didn't want to miss out on that! The location was perfect - the most beautiful part of the Peak District, close to some wonderful hiking and must-see sights, such as Chatsworth House - while idyllic streams and hills just a short stroll from the tent. The tent itself was beautifully presented and well equipped - all creature comforts, but with the added adventure or lighting the wood-burning stove to remind us we were camping! The kids were in their element and so sad to leave - especially to say goodbye to canine residents, Mac and Baxter! Coming from overseas each year, we are always keen to try somewhere different, but honestly feel we have found the perfect destination and hope to visit many more times in the coming years. Thank you to all at The Gathering!
03/07/2017David
What a fabulous place to take our grandchildren. The safari tent was the size of a small bungalow with all the fun of camping but with mod-cons including a large fully fitted bathroom with roll-top bath. The owners had thought of everything so all we needed to take was our clothes, food and drink. We had a fun time lighting the wood burner as well as cooking in the attached oven - even toasting bread for breakfast on the open fire. The area around the site was beautiful. Kinder was on our doorstep with majestic views, a fast flowing river and natural farmland. The local Swaledale sheep had just had their lambs and were very comfortable in our presence. We had Mack, the local sheepdog ,visit at every opportunity to play with the grandchildren and the chickens kept the place, including inside the tent, spotlessly clean. At night we could see Tawny owls in the trees and hear the the local wildlife whilst we kept the pit fire alight and enjoyed a glass or two of vino. The owners, Tommy and his wife and their staff could not do enough for us. Any small problem was fixed immediately and deliveries of wood, ice and lanterns came thick and fast. We will be back!!
12/06/2017Jean
This is a truely majical location. The tent is so comfortable with every detail very well thought out.The hosts Kirsty and Tome were very friendly and welcoming. Geoff was great and so helpful.
07/10/2016Jane
An absolute diamond in the rough - almost literally! This is a place where the longer you stay, the harder it becomes to remember what regular life is like. Without a doubt, this will be a place of laughter, love and memories, all while surrounded by a landscape only the Peak District delivers.
18/12/2015Nada, Canopy & Stars
Reviews
Absolutely fantastic stay! We loved every minute from the tents being so cool, we'll equipped with the mod cons, the peaceful location and all the staff, owners, managers qere do friendly and helpful! Would highly recommend and can't wait to return for a longer stay!
24/05/2021Diane
Had a absolutely fabulous time with our 3 grandchildren.They had fun in the brook ,walking,and enjoyed playing and talking to each other instead of looking at screens!!. Tommy Kirsty and Geoff were fantastic hosts and catered to our every need especially when we had to visit the hospital with our grandson .They were very helpful to us.On getting home the first thing they said to their parents "can we please go back there it was brilliant".Full marks indeed.
29/07/2019elizabeth
We had a fantastic stay. The most luxurious glamping - cosy bedrooms with electric blankets and really comfortable beds, lovely big sitting room/kitchen with everything you need and the luxury of a powerful shower too. We enjoyed the paraffin lamps and the woodburner to warm the tent and to cook on, and the kids enjoyed all the games to play. Above all the tent was in the most perfect position - near a stream to paddle and play in, and on the edge of beautiful countryside and hills to walk in. Everyone was so friendly and helpful - a log delivery every day and lots of advice on walks. We will be back, Thank you!
08/04/2019Ruth
We had a lovely time in Edale this week. The Gatherings is located in a wonderful spot, in the village but on the edge surrounded by private land running along a clean beautiful stream with sheep watching on the hillside. The Safari tent was spotlessly clean, full of useful items i.e. electric blankets on the beds as the nights were surprisingly cold for August! As there were five of us and a dog we had travelled up from London in teo cars. Unfortunately the alternator went on one of he cars. Tommy gave us the details of a wonderful garage in "Hope" who fixed the car within two day and in the meantime Tommy and Kirsty were extremely generous and lent us their car for a trip to Chatsworth House. Tommy and Kirsty are the most wonderful hosts, nothing is too much trouble and they have thought of everything to make your hoilday really enjoyable. The location is brilliant for walks in the area and we built up to a 12 km Peak walk on our final day, compete with picnic, and returned buzzing from the wonderful view but some of us (me) more wrecked than others! The day was finished off with a lovely soak in the rolltop bath whilst the others slaved over the BBQ!
27/08/2018Suki
Absolutely loved the Gathering. Tent was all mod cons. Really warm with the stove and the fire pit. Catered for every whim right down to electric blankets! Loved that there were only 4 tents so not a big campsite. Jeff, the estate manager was charming. There are so many walks and views right on the doorstep. No need to get in the car.
17/08/2018Christina
Everything was perfect - even the weather! Tommy, Kirsty and Geoff welcomed us like long lost friends and were always on hand to help with arranging activities or ideas for day trips. Their enthusiasm and passion for the project really shone through. We didn't quite realise just how much there is to see and do in the area - we had to specifically set aside time for relaxing at our tent, as we didn't want to miss out on that! The location was perfect - the most beautiful part of the Peak District, close to some wonderful hiking and must-see sights, such as Chatsworth House - while idyllic streams and hills just a short stroll from the tent. The tent itself was beautifully presented and well equipped - all creature comforts, but with the added adventure or lighting the wood-burning stove to remind us we were camping! The kids were in their element and so sad to leave - especially to say goodbye to canine residents, Mac and Baxter! Coming from overseas each year, we are always keen to try somewhere different, but honestly feel we have found the perfect destination and hope to visit many more times in the coming years. Thank you to all at The Gathering!
03/07/2017David
What a fabulous place to take our grandchildren. The safari tent was the size of a small bungalow with all the fun of camping but with mod-cons including a large fully fitted bathroom with roll-top bath. The owners had thought of everything so all we needed to take was our clothes, food and drink. We had a fun time lighting the wood burner as well as cooking in the attached oven - even toasting bread for breakfast on the open fire. The area around the site was beautiful. Kinder was on our doorstep with majestic views, a fast flowing river and natural farmland. The local Swaledale sheep had just had their lambs and were very comfortable in our presence. We had Mack, the local sheepdog ,visit at every opportunity to play with the grandchildren and the chickens kept the place, including inside the tent, spotlessly clean. At night we could see Tawny owls in the trees and hear the the local wildlife whilst we kept the pit fire alight and enjoyed a glass or two of vino. The owners, Tommy and his wife and their staff could not do enough for us. Any small problem was fixed immediately and deliveries of wood, ice and lanterns came thick and fast. We will be back!!
12/06/2017Jean
This is a truely majical location. The tent is so comfortable with every detail very well thought out.The hosts Kirsty and Tome were very friendly and welcoming. Geoff was great and so helpful.
07/10/2016Jane
An absolute diamond in the rough - almost literally! This is a place where the longer you stay, the harder it becomes to remember what regular life is like. Without a doubt, this will be a place of laughter, love and memories, all while surrounded by a landscape only the Peak District delivers.
18/12/2015Nada, Canopy & Stars
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Absolutely fantastic stay! We loved every minute from the tents being so cool, we'll equipped with the mod cons, the peaceful location and all the staff, owners, managers qere do friendly and helpful! Would highly recommend and can't wait to return for a longer stay!
24/05/2021