River Lodge

71 Customer Reviews

• "Thank you for a great stay."

  The cottage was lovely and had everything we needed. The location is stunning and we just loved all the walking around the area. We enjoyed the cake and “ bubbly” thank you. Laura

  Reviewed by Laura5.0★Apr 2025

• "Beautiful cottage, well placed for exploring the Derbyshire Dales: tucked away but still close to everything."

  All mod cons & a Warm welcome from John & Julie too. Plenty of space to enjoy and wildlife literally on the doorstep. [Quite steep stairs and lots of steps about, so maybe not suitable for everyone.] We had a great time helped great weather !

  Reviewed by Bev5.0★Apr 2025

• "We stayed at River Lodge for a long weekend."

  The owners are lovely, very communicative and welcoming, coming to talk to us about the Lodge and local area, which is beautiful. The house is very well equipped, warm and comfortable. The beds are comfy with lovely bed linen. There was a tasty Victoria sandwich cake waiting for us on arrival along with milk and a bottle of bubbly. We walked through Dovedale in a big loop from the house, visited Thorpe, lovely Sunday lunch in The Old Dog and visited the Stoke on Trent Potteries and Emma Bridgewater. We could not fault the house and annexe, perfect and would definitely stay there again.

  Reviewed by Caroline5.0★Apr 2025

• "We have just returned from a fantastic break staying at River Lodge."

  John & Julie (Owners) came to introduce themselves to us and Julie made us some vegan flap jacks which were delicious The cottage was spotless and had everything you would need with plenty of crockery, cleaning products and everyday essentials such as milk coffee sugar & Teabags We were very central for exploring all the beautiful places the Peak District has to offer We would definitely stay here again

  Reviewed by Kerry5.0★Mar 2025

• "River Lodge is a beautiful, unique property with wonderful views and complete privacy."

  Full of wildlife, peace and tranquility, I couldn’t recommend it more. Great hosts who have clearly thought of everything you could need. Very clean and very comfortable. We are always sad to leave and very much look forward to when we can return. A dream of a property at a very reasonable price for what you get.

  Reviewed by Lynne5.0★Dec 2024

• "River Lodge is a beautiful chocolate box cottage."

  Fully equipped kitchen with lovely crockery the property is spacious but has a cosy feel. Cannot fault the cleanliness or the very much enjoyed welcomed home made Victoria sponge cake and bottle of prececco. We will definitely return to River Lodge.

  Reviewed by Matthew5.0★Nov 2024

• "We love it here, beautiful cottage and beautiful surroundings, so lucky to have this from the doorstep of the cottage."

  This is our 5th time and we will be back. Amazing Victoria sponge cake on arrival and a bottle of fizz. Thank you again for a lovely long weekend stay

  Reviewed by Zoe5.0★Nov 2024

• "Our first time at River Lodge, we were over the moon with this lovely little gem."

  John & Julie are extremely helpful hosts and even baked us a beautiful cake for our arrival. Both the cottage, the barn and the garden are immaculately presented and we thoroughly enjoyed our time there .... as did our 15year old Border Collie. We will definitely book again. Sue & Chris

  Reviewed by Sue5.0★Nov 2024

• "Comfortable cottage, enjoyed our stay."

  Having an owner who was close by was appreciated, not least for the friendly personal welcome in person, and the complimentary, freshly-baked cake. Wonderful location, right next to the river path and v handy for walking the dog. Very well-equipped kitchen. Poor wifi was a bit of a downer, although appreciate this was due to the local network (no fibre available) and nothing to do with the owners of the property.

  Reviewed by Alan4.7★Oct 2024

• "Wonderful accomodation in beautiful and peaceful area."

  Many lovely walks from the door enjoyed by us and two dogs. The young ones in our party enjoyed the separate unit.

  Reviewed by Valerie5.0★Sep 2024

• "Lovely clean cottage with everything we needed."

  Very comfortable beds and furniture. Has lots of character and it’s very peaceful.

  Reviewed by Susan4.7★Sep 2024

• "We really had a great time in River Lodge the setting was perfect and the facilities were excellent."

  Thanks so much for the home baked lovely cake and prosecco and milk in the fridge a lovey touch and we would highly recommend River Lodge as a great place to stay. The Old Dog in Thorpe was our favourite pub and not far away the food there was excellent as was the service. Our two dogs really enjoyed the fantastic walks on our doorstep and also would like to come back soon. Once again thankyou for a lovely break in the wonderful Peak District.

  Reviewed by Jeffrey4.4★Jun 2024

• "We had a lovely stay at River Lodge."

  The house has everything you need and is in an idyllic setting next to the river and close to great walking and exploring. The cake and Prosecco was enjoyed on the first night!

  Reviewed by Becky4.1★Apr 2024

• "Outstandingly clean."

  Great communication with the hosts. A perfect stay in a lovely quiet part of the country. Could not have been better.

  Reviewed by John5.0★Feb 2024

• "What a beautiful place, perfectly situated, beautifully presented with everything you could need."

  Julie even baked us a beautiful cake, left a bottle of milk as well as a bottle of Prosecco,. The property wants for nothing and Julie is a great host! Can't wait to come back in the summer!

  Reviewed by Donna-maria5.0★Feb 2024

• "River Lodge is beautifully presented."

  It is very comfortable and very well equipped. The stunning setting was perfect and the terrace was ideal after a day of exploring the area.

  Reviewed by Hazel5.0★Sep 2023

• "I will definitely stay there again in future."

  Reviewed by Angela5.0★Aug 2023

• "We had such a lovely stay at River Lodge, pretty area nice and quiet and we need to come back to see more."

  Reviewed by Dirk5.0★Aug 2023

• "Beautiful cottage set in beautiful surroundings."

  Our second visit there and will definitely come back.

  Reviewed by Valerie5.0★Jun 2023

• "We had a four night stay at River Lodge together with our Danish friends in June 2023."

  We found the cottage to be in a fantastic location with a superb view. The accommodation was very comfortable with everything we needed for a great stay. We particularly enjoyed the cake made by Julie and left for our arrival. I would definitely recommend this property for anyone wanting a quiet location with great local walks and plenty to see and do within a short drive.

  Reviewed by Robert5.0★Jun 2023

• "River Lodge was great, the position was lovely and the cottage itself was well equipped."

  Its location is amazing right next to the river and in easy walking distance of Ilam. The area is so quiet and relaxing. We went on a number of walks directly from the house. The house was also dog friendly with the garden being safe, apart from the rabbits, squirrel’s etc.

  Reviewed by Jonathan5.0★May 2023

• "A lovely property in a beautiful location."

  We were lucky the river at the back of the garden was in flow and we could watch the ducks and other birds. Everything you could possibly need was there, it was like home from home. Walks straight from the door so perfect for our dogs who loved it. The garden was lovely and private and the separate barn for one of the rooms gave a little extra privacy for our son and his fiancee. Would definitely recommend and would love to visit again.

  Reviewed by Sharon5.0★Mar 2023

• "Such a lovely holiday home with walks from the door."

  Great for kids as well with a lovely garden and comfortable space. So much to see and do in the area with a quiet and peaceful cottage to enjoy everything the area has to offer. Highly recommend.

  Reviewed by Jennifer5.0★Mar 2023

• "Beautiful property in a perfect setting."

  We booked the Lodge for our grandson's first birthday celebrations. 6 adults, the birthday boy and our 2 dogs had a wonderful week. Communication with the owners was excellent. John greeted us and filled the bird feeders, which are located adjacent to the lounge window. The feeders were quickly mobbed by beautiful birds and cheeky squirrels, much to the delight of our grandson and adults alike. The Lodge was furnished and equipped to a very high standard. It was clean, cosy and very comfortable. Home made cake and Prosecco was a lovely gift from the owners. Would highly recommend this Lodge to anyone who needs a peaceful break in the middle of unspoilt spectacular countryside

  Reviewed by Elaine5.0★Feb 2023

• "Really lovely place, very well equipped."

  Quiet and peaceful. Lovely walk straight from the cottage.

  Reviewed by Angela5.0★Feb 2023

• "The cottage is beautifully presented and in a lovely location alongside the river."

  The kitchen is fully equipped and the demo of the aga oven was very useful. The beds were very comfortable, with views across the local area. The Christmas decorations were lovely adding to our winter break. There are many walks from the cottage and we enjoyed walking into Ilam and enjoying a snack at the national trust cafe. The patio area overlooking the river, was a great location to watch the local wildlife and the enclosed garden was greatly enjoyed by our dog.

  Reviewed by Nicola5.0★Dec 2022

• "Fantastic cottage with an owner who maintained excellent contact and was so friendly !"

  Reviewed by Shaun5.0★Nov 2022

• "A very special place to stay, wonderful views and tranquility, and a charming house."

  Reviewed by Leigh5.0★Oct 2022

• "River Lodge is a peaceful, well equipped house set in lovely grounds with a great view."

  We had a really nice week away here, it has everything you need and the owners left us a couple of pints of milk, a chilled bottle of Prosecco and a home made cake as a welcome. Highly recommended holiday home.

  Reviewed by Alison5.0★Sep 2022

• "This is a beautifully furnished and equipped property set in a lovely location."

  The kitchen had everything we wanted and a bit more ie hot tap for drinks, the king beds were especially comfortable and the choice of sitting areas were useful with mixed ages. It's quiet and peaceful but not isolated as several walkers go past plus cars and work vehicles. It was the wrong time for the river but the cattle and sheep in the nearby fields provided entertainment.

  Reviewed by Carol3.8★Sep 2022

• "Lovely rural cottage, with everything you need."

  Comfortable beds, clean and well equipped. Perfect

  Reviewed by Lynn5.0★Jul 2022

• "The most delightful location and chocolate box cottage, extremely well equipped."

  For those of us who delight in our wildlife you are in for a treat. There is a wide range of eateries to please all tastes from good pub grub to fine dining. We will certainly be returning on a regular basis.

  Reviewed by Derrick5.0★Jul 2022

• "We had a great break at the River Lodge."

  The cottages were very comfortable. The aga was an experience. The garden were well kept and secure our dogs enjoyed many an adventure. The area is secluded with great walks at the door. The hosts were very helpful and welcoming.

  Reviewed by Brian5.0★Jun 2022

• "We had a wonderful holiday at River Lodge."

  It is very comfortable, clean and well equipped. There are numerous walks from the door (which our Border Collie loved) and the setting and scenery are superb. It is lovely and quiet and the few locals we met were genuinely friendly. Our daughter thought the barn was great. It seemed to us that a lot of thought had gone into this holiday cottage to make it a place that you would remember fondly and want to return to.

  Reviewed by Paul5.0★May 2022

• "Amazing cottage in a beautiful location, great for walking."

  The facilities were excellent.

  Reviewed by Deirdre5.0★Apr 2022

• "We felt very welcome in this beautiful cottage."

  It was very comfortable, well stocked and immaculately clean. The owners made sure we were well supplied with all we needed, and were very welcoming. The garden was beautiful, with several sitting areas, overlooking the river and countryside, and full of birdsong. The whole surrounding area was beautiful, perfect for walking, biking or just cruising in the car, with fascinating market towns nearby. Thank you for a lovely refreshing holiday.

  Reviewed by Anne5.0★Mar 2022

• "Amazing cottage very clean beautiful location very spacious."

  Excellent large enclosed safe garden. Beautiful area. Definitely short of nothing. Owners very welcoming and responsive. Will definitely return.

  Reviewed by Jane5.0★Feb 2022

• "Lovely location and Julie and John are extremely welcoming."

  Beautiful walks without having to drive anywhere. Ilam could do with a local village shop. Perhaps I have found my calling!

  Reviewed by Neeta4.7★Feb 2022

• "Beautiful setting,lovely and cosy owners friendly and helpful"

  Reviewed by Kristan5.0★Dec 2021

• "Wonderful well equipped cottage in a glorious setting, a perfect place to stay."

  Greeted with a delicious home made cake, thanks Julie.

  Reviewed by Howard5.0★Oct 2021

• "Beautiful setting, amazing views, very comfortable and very well appointed."

  The owner baked the most gorgeous cake to welcome us along with a bottle of fizz! During our stay we had a problem with a radiator which was fixed within a couple of hours. We had a wonderful week and would definitely return.

  Reviewed by Gillian5.0★Sep 2021

• "We really enjoyed our stay at River Lodge."

  The setting for the cottage is absolutely stunning. The kitchen is extremely well appointed. Any small issues were dealt with by the lovely owners very quickly.

  Reviewed by Anna4.7★Aug 2021

• "The host Julie was great and even kept the bird feeder topped up!"

  We will be going back, if they can fit us in!

  Reviewed by Graham5.0★Jul 2021

• "River Cottage was the most beautiful holiday home we have stayed in to date."

  The owners provided everything you could possibly need and more. The kitchen was very highly equipped, with every gadget imaginable. The garden is a delight, we loved watching the birds on the feeder, we had barbeques and used the chiminea. The location was stunning and our party of six fitted perfectly into the house and barn. Would 100% recommend.

  Reviewed by Fiona5.0★Jul 2021

• "Perfect location for easy walks along the river to Ilam Hall (where there is a National Trust coffee shop) and beyond to Dovedale - the stepping stones, Thorpe Cloud, the village of Thorpe (sadly pub closed :() but the Okeover Arms at Mappleton was open (good hearty pub grub) ."

  .. or more challenging walks, from the door to Dovedale via Castern, Hopedale & back along the River Dove. Sainsbury's delivered, we walked - beautiful scenery, idyllic location - enjoyed just sitting on the patio & taking in the view & counting sheep! Cottage very comfortable, very homely and well equipped.

  Reviewed by Sarah5.0★Jul 2021

• "WOW it was just a perfect place to stay."

  Views stunning. Welcomed with flowers, bubbly, tea/coffee &milk not forgetting the biscuits. Julie was very very friendly. Probably the best stay we’ve had

  Reviewed by Elaine5.0★Jun 2021

• "I would have preferred better fencing near the river and the wall edge to the garden."

  The dogs had to be anxiously supervised. I imagine parents would feel the same with young children. Relaxing in the garden ,which is wonderfully situated, became a stress. The cottage is beautiful however and I highly recommend it.

  Reviewed by Barbara5.0★May 2021

• "Lovely cottage in idyllic location Very cosy Spotlessly clean Really enjoyed our stay"

  Reviewed by Lisa5.0★Oct 2020

• "Wonderful cottage with plenty of space for everyone!"

  It was completely Covid Secure and felt safe to be in. The nearby Ilam Hall is wonderful to walk to and the hosts even baked us a cake and left a bottle of bubbly for us!

  Reviewed by Jessica5.0★Sep 2020

• "Lovely hosts welcomed us and communicated by email prior to our stay so we could let them know our preferences."

  Little welcome treat of homemade cake and milk in the fridge etc. Beautiful views from the garden and fantastic walks literally from the garden gate!

  Reviewed by Laura3.8★Sep 2020

• "A wonderful place to stay."

  The pictures do not do the cottage justice. The owners made it all very easy, there was plenty of information and definitely all safety procedures in place during this pandemic. A breath taking area to stay in and a delightful cottage to spend the rainy days in.

  Reviewed by Holly5.0★Sep 2020

• "All in good condition, excellent, with attentive owners available (although not needed)"

  Reviewed by Martyn5.0★Aug 2020

• "It is worth a mention that if the holiday maker has never used an AGA before to let the owner know so that a more detailed instruction can be given if required."

  Reviewed by Sharon4.7★Mar 2020

• "Beautiful setting."

  The cottage is gorgeous with lots of space. Amazing views and walks from the garden.

  Reviewed by Liz5.0★Feb 2020

• "Lovely cottage in a great location."

  Really well equipped kitchen, comfy beds and good bathrooms . Homemade cake and Prosecco waiting for us on arrival. The house was very clean and warm .

  Reviewed by Charles5.0★Feb 2020

• "The cottage was in a lovely location, plenty of walks nearby."

  The cottage was spotlessly clean, nice to return to a log fire and rest, the bed was very comfortable, kitchen perfect, the cottage was very dog friendly with a enclosed garden, lots of wildlife around, Bakewell, Leek, nice places to visit, one of our best cottages we have stayed in, and love to return

  Reviewed by Melvyn5.0★Dec 2019

• "River Lodge ticked all the boxes, the cottage is Beautiful as is the interior, it is in a stunning location with the River Manifold on the doorstep."

  We cannot wait to go back we will be booking a return in 2020 we highly recommend this lovely cottage.

  Reviewed by A4.7★Nov 2019

• "The amazing lodge was godsend to us - we are parents, two small children (3 & 6), a lively dog and grandparents - it surpassed all of our expectations and needs!"

  The view is breathtaking as it is practically on the doorstep of National Trust Ilam Park. Heavy rain did not bother us as there was plenty to do! The separate annex helped the grandparents to enjoy in peace away from kids and dog being too playful! The two living rooms did the trick very well as kids could choose to watch their channels while we adults get to enjoy the calmness in the other room! The dog was very lucky to have own sleeping space. The best finishing touch was homemade brownies! Thanks guys!

  Reviewed by Colette5.0★Nov 2019

• "One of the most stunning places we have stayed in."

  The location of the propriety is beautiful and the cottage itself is so warm and inviting. The rooms are so comfortable to relax in after a long days hillwalking, which is easy to do from the door !

  Reviewed by Andi5.0★Nov 2019

• "The cottage was absolutely beautiful."

  Everything was thought about, and we wanted for nothing. Lovely to meet the owners who came just to check all was ok, on the night we arrived. The flowers, and brownies were a very thoughtful touch. Beautiful rural setting, and a gorgeous cottage. We hope to visit again soon.

  Reviewed by Angela5.0★Oct 2019

• "We thoroughly enjoyed the cottage and it's facilities."

  We were especially impressed with the beautifully landscaped outdoor area which we enjoyed to the full thanks to gorgeous weather. The Uk weather being what it is we then spent the following rainy day huddled around the open fire! This was a weekend stay, we would have no hesitation in returning for longer in the not too distant future. Thanks to our host!

  Reviewed by Cleo5.0★Sep 2019

• "An extremely well appointed property in a wonderfully secluded location."

  The cottage is very clean, comfortable with many walks right from the door Bailey our Beagle loved it. the concessionary walk right by the cottage along the river right into Elam park was brilliant. A glass of wine on the terrace above the river was very relaxing. The owners John and Julie were very kind and helpful. The cake and biscuits on arrival where most welcome along with the vases of Flowers. I strongly recommend this cottage, it should have a 5 star rating.

  Reviewed by David5.0★Sep 2019

• "We had a lovely holiday at River Lodge."

  Very welcoming, hospitable and generous hosts. We experienced the river in full flow after the rain. We enjoyed mastering the Aga to cook with. The scenery and surrounding area is enchanting, prepare yourself for a thoroughly relaxing break.

  Reviewed by Lucinda4.4★Jul 2019

• "Absolutely beautiful cottage, very clean and spacious, had everything you needed and the welcome gifts on arrival was a lovely surprise."

  Ideal location with great views, lots of wildlife and good walks from cottage.

  Reviewed by Karen5.0★Jun 2019

• "Originally set up as the owners main residence, some of the equipment including a boiling water tap exceeds expectations."

  We experienced a week of torrential rain which changed the river from long grass with a few puddles to a raging torrent. This was worth seeing and we were dry and snug in the lodge after our wet walks. The owner left generous welcome goodies and popped in to check everything was alright. Highly recommended for nature lovers who like to escape for peace and quiet. There is no mobile signal but good WiFi.

  Reviewed by Judith4.4★Jun 2019

• "Beautifully located cottage."

  Peaceful and stunning scenery. Lovely welcome basket and homemade chocolate brownies. Lovely walks around local area.

  Reviewed by Kath4.7★May 2019

• "The reason I have given 3 out of 4 for accuracy is because the description leads one to believe that there are 3 bathrooms."

  In fact there are 2 bathrooms and a bath in the bedroom. As there were only 4 of us in the accommodation the room arrangement suited us perfectly, as one couple used the annexe. However, if there were 3 separate couples the arrangement would be more difficult. We loved the cottage and it’s situation. It was perfect for us and very central for walking. We hope to book this cottage again.

  Reviewed by Margaret4.7★May 2019

• "The welcome email, fresh flowers groceries were all very helpful touches."

  The cottage was very clean and well equipped.

  Reviewed by Jacky4.7★Apr 2019

• "Brilliant holiday, superb location and so pretty."

  The house is amazing. We will be back in November hopefully

  Reviewed by Duncan5.0★Mar 2019

• "Gorgeous setting and a beautiful cottage with everything we needed."

  Reviewed by Liz5.0★Feb 2019

• "What a wonderful place loved our stay very welcoming brownies was amazing and ..."

  What a wonderful place loved our stay very welcoming brownies was amazing and thank you for the doggy treats would highly recommend River Lodge

  Reviewed by Sandra5.0★Feb 2019

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