Underleigh House

Walks from the doorstep, views of Peak District hills, a peaceful garden, breakfast feasts and comfortable bedrooms… it’s no surprise that Underleigh wins so much praise. ‘An absolute gem!’ enthuses a reader who has been returning for five years. ‘The location is stunning', and the 'welcome is perfect with home-baked scones and tea'. Vivienne Taylor’s handsome stone longhouse has a pretty, colourful garden – ‘a bonus on warm days when you can enjoy the fresh air and scenery’ – and inside, there are glowing lamps and deep sofas in the fire-warmed lounge. Bedrooms, ‘with amazing views’, are elegant with pretty wallpaper, pale-painted furniture, an occasional antique, and are spotlessly clean. Three are suites with large sofas; one opens to the garden. Thoughtful touches include bathrobes and fresh milk. Breakfast, served at a large table in the beamed and flagged dining room, offers home-made bread and compotes, Aga-cooked porridge, eggs Benedict, and a full grill. ‘It kept us fuelled for the day.’ Vivienne can advise on walks. She is ‘the perfect host’ who ‘ensures guests are really well catered for’. 'Highly recommended and very good value for money.' (Penny Robb, David Preston, JE, SD, and others)