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The Great Country House Weekend

Located in one of England’s most picturesque and wild habitats, Crag Hall is an imposing sandstone Georgian country house, enjoying elevated views over the Peak District. This rural retreat is now available by exclusive appointment, accommodating up to 21 guests for weekend and short stays.

Until recently, the house has been the private country retreat of The Earl and Countess of Derby, the perfect place to gather with extended family or a group of friends to enjoy an authentic English country house weekend. As an introductory offer, the house, which comes with its own dedicated housekeeper, can be rented out from £3375 for a three night weekend stay (or under 160pp).

For those wanting to mark a special occasion, there is the option of having a Chef cook for a group throughout their stay or perhaps for a special evening of fine dining and celebration.

The more formal rooms of the house are charmingly decorated to a very high standard, and grandeur is certainly the overall impression, yet this house has a convivial and welcoming atmosphere and is certainly the kind of place where guests soon kick back and switch off, nurtured by the change in routine and the deep relaxation that comes from being outdoors and enjoying fun times together. 

The billiards and games room will certainly be a hit with many groups, and the open log fires in the drawing room and study will add cheer to an evening in, not to mention delicious slow-cooked suppers from the AGA. Alternatively, the local pub is only ten minutes stroll and serves hearty seasonal food.

The spaciousness of the house and functionality of the rooms lends itself ideally to groups who have children, for example adjoining bedrooms, and a kitchenette/living area and an informal living room are ideal for children with nannies, or older ones. Modern conveniences include televisions, DVD players, Xbox 360, docking stations and complimentary wi-fi and a dishwasher.

With twelve bedrooms and eight bathrooms, there are plenty of options to suit all manner of groups, and allow everyone space and privacy. The traditional deep cast-iron baths are perfect for a relaxing soak in keeping with the ethos of the relaxed lifestyle, although contemporary showers are available too. 

The views from the house are stunning, and include the magnificent Shuttlingsloe (the ‘Matterhorn of Cheshire’) A climb to the summit is worth the exertion, with views well beyond the Peak District and Cheshire Plain on a clear day.  Other outdoor activities popular in the area include orienteering, bird watching, cycling, mountain biking, shooting and fishing – there’s provision for lawn games at the house, including badminton and croquet.  The barbeque facilities are all at hand should the climate be mild.  Recently developed is a wild flower meadow area of the garden, which slopes away from the house and has a gazebo seating area, bedecked in crimson roses.  Dogs are welcome too in the downstairs area of the house and have their own sleeping area in the boot room.

For a change of scene, local towns Macclesfield and Buxton are within easy driving distance, both around 15 minutes away. Buxton is a hub of cultural activity and the Opera House there is a real asset. Chatsworth House is also a short journey by car.

Three-day weekend break prices start at £3375, and one week stays, including the use of the housekeeper services are from £4500. This is an introductory offer and valid only for bookings taken by end of January 2016.

For more information click HERE.