Oak Leaf Church, Matlock

Peak District. Sleeps up to 4

Spanning two floors, this characterful converted church makes a beautiful apartment for up to four guests in the centre of the delightful town of Matlock. With original stained-glass windows and church pews merging with modern flourishes, this is a truly unique space to make your home for the holiday.

Enjoy a coffee from the machine in the characterful kitchen, complete with all you will need to cook up a storm for your guests. With a toaster, kettle, microwave and dishwasher, plus all utensils included, you can serve up an excellent meal enjoyed with a bottle of wine on the four-seater kitchenette table.

The living room oozes character, adorned with original stained glass windows, comfortable sofas and home-like touches. A modern oak staircase leads up to the first floor, where the stylish sleeping accommodation can be found. With a mezzanine style balcony overlooking the ground floor, the bedrooms are made up of two stylish wood-beamed king-size doubles, with panelled walls, soft bed linens and metal framed, and four poster beds set against a warm and inviting colour palette.   A shared bathroom offers a large bathtub with an over-bath shower.

With vaulted ceilings, characterful touches from bright red post boxes to model building artwork and home-like indoor plants, this converted Methodist church has been lovingly converted to a warm and inviting holiday home with a difference.   Amongst the period features, modern touches of complimentary WiFi and TV provide a space to relax and unwind in the evening after an energetic day discovering all that the local area has to explore.

Right in the heart of Matlock, Oak Leaf Church has easy access to an excellent selection of independent shops and cafes, making it easy to pop out for a delicious coffee or croissant in the mornings. With the Peak District and glorious Derbyshire countryside within easy distance, the apartment provides a walker’s retreat, a great place to relax and unwind after a day out exploring this exceptionally beautiful part of the UK.

The former spa town of Matlock is situated in the South Eastern part of the Peak District, with the National Park close by.   The town itself has a lovely selection of pubs, shops and cafes, plus superb transport links to get out and enjoy the surrounding area. Visit the local Black Rocks, a popular walking and climbing spot which offers superb views of Matlock Gorge. Those with energy can take the climb to the top or enjoy a milder circular walk. Formerly an area mined for lead, there are a number of interesting plants, including leadworts, and an intriguing mix of limestone and gritstone formations to explore. Refreshments are available in the summer months, and you can park near the site.

A trip to Hall Leys Park is a must, with much to do to fill your day. Take a boat out on the lake, amble along the River Derwent on a riverside walk, or even enjoy a game or two of tennis on the courts.

The local railway line between Matlock and Rowsley offers a fantastic vintage experience aboard a steam or diesel train, a great step back in time, and a chance to view the lovely countryside along the way. If you are looking for more vintage transport, then a visit to Crich Tramway Village offers the chance to ride on an old tram and explore over 60 vintage trams displayed at the museum. There is also a working pub, café and even an olde style sweet shop to keep everyone’s energy up.

Make sure to head to the Heights of Abraham, a stunning hilltop park where you can book a scenic cable car taking you up to view the stunning Derwent Valley. The Vista Restaurant at the top is a lovely spot for lunch with a view. From the hilltops to the underground caves, many illuminated caverns are explored on site. Plus a number of woodland trails and even an adventure playground.

For those looking to find some inner peace during their holiday, why not visit the Cascades Garden in the neighbouring village of Bonsall, which boasts a beautiful Meditation Garden? A tranquil space with a fantastic display of Bonsai trees, it is inspired by Buddhis Philosophy with an eye on Japanese design.