The approach – to the barn is via an unmade but easily driveable 1/4 mile long private lane from the moor road (Loads Road). Cross a small stone bridge over the stream, go left past a neighbouring property and through gates into a gravel yard with parking and turning for at least 5 cars. The yard has a selection of old stone troughs and a stone bench for the late afternoon sun.
To the front of the barn there is a gated stone flagged front-yard, surrounded by dry-stone walls and with stone troughs containing alpine and pond plants. This is a lovely place to rest and relax in private, enjoy the morning sun, maybe have breakfast outside. Lunchtimes under the parasol, afternoons lounging with a beer or a glass of wine, and maybe an evening barbecue, the choice is yours. Do remember though that this is Derbyshire and the weather can be “variable”. Clear nights can provide an excellent view of a starry sky due to the lower light pollution. If you are lucky you will also see bats feeding above the stream. A large picnic-bench plus a 2-seater bench are provided, as are 4 comfortable sun-chairs, a parasol and a 2-burner gas barbecue.
Over the wall to the front and through a gateway, secured by a removable fence, is a narrow garden area, then across the stream – an area of very steep “wild” garden with very uneven steps and paths, again surrounded by dry-stone walls. Access to this area is only via lockable gates.
- You are welcome to wander across, using the stepping stones to cross the stream, carefully! Use of this area can only be at your own risk. We have managed for years without coming to any harm.
Over there you will find a stone bench to rest on, a natural spring outlet that forms a small waterfall to the stream in wet periods, a “smoot” – an access hole in the wall for creatures (you’ll see them all over the peaks, and now you know what they are called) plus a stepping stone style over the top wall, providing access to a public footpath up there. Do watch for activity in the owl box high in the ash tree. There are owls in the area, and you may hear them, but none have made a nest in the box yet.
At the rear – of the property is a large garden of approx 1/2 acre, with a level area and a steep slope. From the top of the garden you can see the crooked spire of Chesterfield church. There is a large rockery with loose stone.
- Please do NOT climb the rockery stone. There are steps provided to the sides. The stone is very heavy and it hurts. We have never experienced any problems. That said, you are free to wander around this area – at your own risk – and keeping any children supervised at all times.
From the barn you can walk several public footpaths – see the Out & About – Walking page. These are well sign-posted by the local societies and easy to follow. You can make various looping routes over the local hills. It is also possible to walk over the moor-top to Chatsworth if you wish, but do check the weather forecast as the moor can be bleak.
Entrance to the barn is normally via the paneled door at the centre. To the left of the door, you will find the key-safe.
