Holly Cottage
A beautiful Holiday Cottage in Derbyshire
Holly Cottage is a beautifully restored contemporary barn conversion offering spacious, stylish, and fully equipped self-catering accommodation in a peaceful rural setting. Nestled within the quiet grounds of Ilex Farm – a small working arable farm with private stables – the cottage enjoys charming views of landscaped gardens and the surrounding Derbyshire countryside, perfect for a relaxing break in the heart of England.
Located in the picturesque hamlet of Handley, between the historic market town of Chesterfield and the scenic county town of Matlock, Holly Cottage is ideally positioned for exploring the Peak District National Park and the Derbyshire Dales. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure or a peaceful retreat, it’s the perfect base for walking, cycling, climbing, or discovering local heritage and stately homes.
With stunning surroundings, modern comforts, and a warm welcome, Holly Cottage offers everything you need for a memorable holiday in Derbyshire.
Holly Cottage Overview
A thoughtfully designed countryside escape with everything you need for a relaxing stay in the Derbyshire Dales:
- Sleeps up to 4 guests (plus Z-bed or travel cot available on request).
- 1 spacious double bedroom.
- 1 twin bedroom – ideal for children or additional guests.
- Modern family bathroom with full-size bath and overhead shower.
- Inviting lounge with a fireplace – perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
- Stylish open-plan kitchen and dining area, fully fitted for comfort and convenience.
- Private garden and patio area, with direct access from the lounge.
- One well behaved pet welcome by prior arrangement at booking.
- This is a non-smoking accomodation.
- Full gas central heating throughout.
- Flatscreen TV with DVD player and a selection of films.
- Radio and CD player.
- Washer-dryer and ironing facilities.
- Books, local maps, board games.
- Gas hob & electric oven.
- Microwave, fridge-freezer, and kitchen essentials.
- Cookware, utensils, crockery, and glassware.
- All bed linen and towels provided.
- All heating, gas, and electricity included.
- Non-smoking accommodation.
What people say about Ilex Farm
EXCELLENT Based on 273 reviews Posted on Airbnb Jon23 April 2026Verified comfortable and welcoming, reminded me of the pleasant countryside holidays I had as a child (in a good way!). would stay again.Posted on Airbnb Daniel19 April 2026Verified A beautiful place right on the doorstep of the Peak District. Lovely views, and their stables just across the front lawn. Plenty of parking if you have more than one vehicle. The property has everything you could possibly need. It’s clean, cosy and warm.Posted on Airbnb Samantha17 April 2026Verified Great host. Great location. Just as described. Had a fabulous short break.Posted on Airbnb Matt12 April 2026Verified Great location and a lovely host. Thanks for having us and we would use this location again.Posted on Airbnb Guy8 April 2026Verified A lovely stay and a lovely host! Can wholeheartedly recommend a stay here.Posted on Airbnb Neil6 April 2026Verified Fantastic stay with a pleasant host. The farm surroundings are beautiful and easy access to attractions if you have a family.Posted on Airbnb Lozza3 April 2026Verified we had a lovely stay, kids loved the fact the property was next to the stables so could say good morning and good night to the horses. massive field for us to take the dog down the track to every morning to give him a run around before going out. great location we visited bakewell and matlock, the tram museum and a few l other spots and didn't have to drive more than 30mins. only issue was there was no Internet (which isn't mentioned) and phone signal was hit and miss due to the rural location so getting the kids bedtime story apps was a bit tricky. that being said we had a lovely time and would certainly recommend to othersPosted on Airbnb Faith28 March 2026Verified Me and my sister had a pleasant stay :)Posted on Airbnb Chris23 March 2026Verified The place was perfect for what we wanted. Really clean and a big bonus that it allows dogs. We will definitely be back again!Posted on Airbnb Brian20 March 2026Verified Nice spacious comfortable cottage
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in a stay at Holly Cottage?
All bookings include bed linen, towels, heating, electricity, a welcome tray on arrival, and access to DVDs, books, maps, and games. The cottage is fully equipped for self-catering stays.
How many guests can Holly Cottage accommodate?
Holly Cottage comfortably sleeps up to 4 people, with one double room and one twin room. A Z-bed or travel cot is available on request.
Is Holly Cottage dog-friendly?
Yes, one well-behaved dog is welcome by prior arrangement. Please mention this when booking. Extra dogs by request.
Is there private parking available?
Yes, Holly Cottage offers ample parking for two or more vehicles directly on-site.
What cooking and laundry facilities are provided?
The kitchen includes a gas hob, electric oven, microwave, fridge-freezer, and all essential cookware. There’s also a washer-dryer and ironing facilities for guest use.
How close are local amenities?
There are traditional pubs about a mile from the cottage, and the location is ideal for exploring Chesterfield, Matlock, and the Peak District.
Get in touch
If you are interested in staying at Holly Cottage, please contact Carolyn Pope at:
Our Location
Ilex Farm is situated in a quiet rural location in Handley, Derbyshire and is ideally suited for visiting the Peak District and Derbyshire Dales.