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Sunshine Cottage, Ashbourne

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Sunshine Cottage is a beautifully converted barn in Derbyshire that sleeps up to 8 guests. This property sits in the peaceful countryside near Ashbourne and offers a private hot tub for relaxation after busy days exploring. The open-plan living space works brilliantly for groups wanting to spend time together.

The location puts you right in the heart of the Peak District National Park. Rolling hills and traditional market towns surround the property. You get proper countryside views without being too remote.

The accommodation includes three bedrooms: one king-size with en-suite shower room, one double and one twin room. There are two bathrooms in total.

About Sunshine Cottage

Sunshine Cottage is a beautifully converted barn in Derbyshire that sleeps up to 8 guests. This property sits in the peaceful countryside near Ashbourne and offers a private hot tub for relaxation after busy days exploring. The open-plan living space works brilliantly for groups wanting to spend time together.

The location puts you right in the heart of the Peak District National Park. Rolling hills and traditional market towns surround the property. You get proper countryside views without being too remote.

The accommodation includes three bedrooms: one king-size with en-suite shower room, one double and one twin room. There are two bathrooms in total. The ground floor features an open-plan kitchen, dining and living area with French doors opening onto the patio. Modern appliances include a dishwasher and washing machine.

Alton Towers Resort sits 8 miles away (20 minutes drive). Dovedale stepping stones are 4 miles away (10 minutes). Chatsworth House is 18 miles away (35 minutes). Ashbourne town centre is 2 miles away (6 minutes).

This barn conversion suits families or friend groups wanting Peak District access with home comforts. The hot tub and spacious layout make Sunshine Cottage perfect for proper getaways.

Check Prices & Availability »

Need To Know

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Local Insights: Sunshine Cottage

Unique information you won't find on booking sites

Ashbourne, Derbyshire

Weather & Local Conditions

15°C

Overcast

Updated: 30 Jul 2026, 2:58am

🌡️
15.00°C
Temperature
💨
8 km/h
Wind Speed
💧
91%
Humidity
🧳
Packing Tip: UK weather can turn quickly, so pack layers whatever the forecast. A waterproof and sturdy shoes mean the whole group can head out whatever July throws at you.

What to Expect Through the Year

  • May - September: Warmest, longest days - ideal for big group days out, gardens and BBQs
  • October - November: Crisp autumn colour, cosy evenings by the fire, quieter attractions
  • December - February: Perfect for a snug winter escape - great for Christmas and New Year gatherings
  • March - April: Spring blooms, longer evenings returning, wildlife becoming active
🌧️
Rainy Day Tip: A large cottage comes into its own on wet days - board games, a long lunch and a film with the whole group beat a cramped hotel any day. Check the tabs here for nearby pubs and attractions with indoor options.

Dark Skies & Stargazing

Sunshine Cottage sits in a location with genuinely dark skies - a real treat for a group, and something you rarely get at home in town.

Bortle Scale Rating

The Bortle scale measures night sky darkness from 1 (darkest) to 9 (brightest urban):

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
🌌
Class 4 - Rural/suburban transition
This location's dark sky rating

What You Can See From the Cottage

The Milky Way is visible overhead, though light domes may be visible on the horizon towards larger towns.

The Milky Way is visible on clear, moonless nights.

Best Stargazing Conditions

  • New Moon periods: Darkest skies, best Milky Way visibility
  • Winter months: Earlier darkness, crisper skies, Orion constellation prominent
  • After 11pm: Neighbouring lights typically switched off
  • Allow 20 minutes: Let your eyes adjust to darkness before looking up
📱
Pro Tip: Download a stargazing app like "Sky Map" or "Star Walk" before arrival. Mobile signal can be limited, and these apps work offline - a fun activity to share with the whole group.

Location & Elevation

110m

(361 feet above sea level)

Sunshine Cottage sits in a peaceful Derbyshire setting - space to spread out and the perfect base for a group getaway.

🏔️
110m
Elevation
📍
Ashbourne
Nearest Village
🌲
Rural
Setting

What the Elevation Means for Your Stay

  • Fresher air: Expect it a touch cooler than coastal areas - bracing walks and restful sleep
  • Clearer air: Less pollution and haze, better views and stargazing
  • Morning mists: Valley fog sometimes forms below, creating magical sunrise views
  • Walking access: Higher starting point means shorter climbs to hilltops and summits
🚗
Driving Note: The roads to Ashbourne are typical Derbyshire lanes - narrow in places with passing spots. If the group is arriving in several cars, share the postcode and a meeting point in advance.

Coordinates

Latitude: 52.9473730° N | Longitude: 1.582624° W

Sunrise & Sunset Times

Today's sun times for Ashbourne (Thursday, 30 July 2026):

4:19am

Sunrise

7:06pm

Golden Hour

8:06pm

Sunset

🌅
4:19am
Sunrise
🌇
8:06pm
Sunset
📸
7:06pm
Golden Hour

Planning Your Days by Season

  • Summer (Jun-Aug): Sunset around 9:30-10pm - long days for group walks, days out and late alfresco dinners
  • Autumn (Sep-Nov): Sunset 5-7pm - perfect timing for an after-dinner drink as the stars come out
  • Winter (Dec-Feb): Sunset around 4pm - cosy early evenings by the fire, ideal for stargazing
  • Spring (Mar-May): Sunset 6-9pm - watch the evenings grow longer each day
🌙
Golden Hour: For the best light, plan your group photo or evening walk around golden hour (7:06pm). The warm colours make for lovely holiday photos before you head back in for dinner.

July Daylight

This month in Ashbourne, you have approximately 15.78 hours of daylight. The long summer days mean plenty of time for group adventures before a relaxed evening back at the cottage.

Practical Essentials

Everything the group needs to know before you arrive at Sunshine Cottage.

Mobile Phone Signal

📱

Signal Strength

Good

Mobile signal is generally good in this area across most networks.

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Signal Tip: All major networks should work well here.

Nearest Essentials

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Arrival Tip: Fill up with fuel before you arrive - petrol stations can be sparse in rural Derbyshire. With a larger group it's worth doing one big supermarket shop on the way, especially if arriving late.

Family & Fun

Data updated: 30 Jul 2026 | Location: 52.9473730, -1.5826240

Information unique to this location - not available on booking sites

What Guests Love

What do previous guests think about their group stay at Sunshine Cottage

Private Hot Tub

The outdoor hot tub provides the perfect spot for groups to unwind together after days exploring the Peak District countryside and local attractions.

Open-Plan Living Space

The ground floor layout keeps everyone together with kitchen, dining and living areas flowing seamlessly for socialising and group meals throughout your stay.

Peak District Location

Positioned in beautiful Derbyshire countryside, you get stunning rural views and direct access to walking trails right from the doorstep of the property.

Modern Kitchen Facilities

The fully equipped kitchen includes dishwasher and all modern appliances, making group catering straightforward and allowing everyone to help with meal preparation.

En-Suite Master Bedroom

The king-size bedroom features its own en-suite shower room, providing extra convenience and privacy for larger groups sharing the accommodation together.

Alton Towers Proximity

Just 8 miles from Alton Towers Resort, this location is perfect for groups planning theme park visits while enjoying peaceful countryside accommodation afterwards.

Getting To Sunshine Cottage

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

By Car

To reach Sunshine Cottage by car, take the A52 towards Ashbourne, then follow signs for Snelston. The property is easily accessible from major routes and you'll have convenient off-road parking for multiple vehicles upon arrival.

By Train

For those travelling by rail, the nearest station is Uttoxeter, approximately 9 miles away. From there, it's a straightforward taxi journey to your Peak District accommodation in the Derbyshire countryside.

Off-road parking for multiple cars
Uttoxeter station (9 miles)
Easily accessible from the A52

Group Attractions & More Nearby

Stuff for larger groups and families to try!

Alton Towers Resort
Distance: 8 miles
ST10 4DB
Dovedale Stepping Stones
Distance: 4 miles
DE6 2AY
Chatsworth House
Distance: 18 miles
DE45 1PP
Dovedale Walk
Distance: 4 miles
DE6 2AY
Tissington Trail
Distance: 3 miles
DE6 1RA
Manifold Valley Trail
Distance: 7 miles
DE6 2AJ
Ashbourne Town Centre
Distance: 2 miles
DE6 1EJ
Uttoxeter Market
Distance: 9 miles
ST14 7HN
Bakewell Market
Distance: 16 miles
DE45 1BT
Uttoxeter Bus Station
Distance: 9 miles
ST14 7HN
Ashbourne Bus Station
Distance: 2 miles
DE6 1GF
Carsington Water Visitor Centre
Distance: 6 miles
DE6 1ST
Alton Towers Resort
Distance: 8 miles
ST10 4DB
Dovedale Stepping Stones
Distance: 4 miles
DE6 2AY
Chatsworth House
Distance: 18 miles
DE45 1PP
Dovedale Walk
Distance: 4 miles
DE6 2AY
Tissington Trail
Distance: 3 miles
DE6 1RA
Manifold Valley Trail
Distance: 7 miles
DE6 2AJ
Ashbourne Town Centre
Distance: 2 miles
DE6 1EJ
Uttoxeter Market
Distance: 9 miles
ST14 7HN
Bakewell Market
Distance: 16 miles
DE45 1BT
Uttoxeter Bus Station
Distance: 9 miles
ST14 7HN
Ashbourne Bus Station
Distance: 2 miles
DE6 1GF
Carsington Water Visitor Centre
Distance: 6 miles
DE6 1ST

Is Sunshine Cottage Right For Your Group

Discover why this cottage is the one for your party or family reunion...

For Families
Children will love being just 8 miles from Alton Towers Resort for thrilling rides and attractions. The Dovedale stepping stones provide adventure 4 miles away. The property has a safe enclosed patio area and the hot tub offers supervised fun. Carsington Water 6 miles away offers watersports and a play area. The open countryside location provides space for outdoor games and exploration.
Groups Will Love...
The private hot tub at Sunshine Cottage provides the perfect group feature for unwinding together after busy days exploring. Located outdoors on the patio area, it offers space for multiple guests to relax simultaneously. The hot tub overlooks the Derbyshire countryside, creating a peaceful atmosphere for evening socialising. This facility transforms the property into a proper retreat for friends or families wanting relaxation alongside adventure.
Pet Friendly
Sunshine Cottage welcomes dogs, making it perfect for groups who want to bring their pets along. The property sits in rural Derbyshire with direct access to countryside walks from the doorstep. The enclosed patio provides a secure outdoor space for dogs. Peak District trails nearby offer excellent walking opportunities. Contact the owner to confirm the number of pets allowed and any specific requirements or charges.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at Sunshine Cottage

The Bentley Brook Inn

Located 1.5 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: DE6 2BA

The Dog and Partridge

Located 2 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: DE6 1GG

Beresford Tea Rooms

Located 4 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: DE6 2AY

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about Sunshine Cottage

Is Sunshine Cottage pet friendly?
Yes, Sunshine Cottage welcomes pets so you can bring your dogs along on your Peak District break. Check with the owner regarding the number of pets allowed and any additional charges that may apply.
How many people does the property sleep?
The cottage sleeps 6 guests across three bedrooms: one king-size with en-suite, one double and one twin room. Two bathrooms serve the property, providing ample facilities for larger groups.
Is there parking available at the cottage?
Off-road parking is provided for multiple vehicles directly at the property. This makes arrival straightforward for groups travelling in separate cars to the Derbyshire countryside location.
What facilities are in the kitchen?
The modern kitchen includes a dishwasher, washing machine, fridge-freezer, electric oven and hob, microwave and all standard cooking equipment. Everything you need for preparing group meals is provided in the open-plan space.
How far is Sunshine Cottage from Alton Towers?
Alton Towers Resort is located 8 miles away, approximately 20 minutes by car. This makes the cottage an excellent base for groups visiting the theme park whilst enjoying peaceful rural accommodation.
Are towels and bedding provided?
All bed linen and towels are included in your booking at Sunshine Cottage. You may want to bring extra towels if you plan to use the hot tub frequently during your stay.
What is there to do nearby for groups?
Dovedale stepping stones are 4 miles away for scenic walks, Ashbourne town centre is 2 miles for shops and restaurants and Chatsworth House is 18 miles away. The Peak District offers endless walking routes and traditional pubs throughout the area.
Is there WiFi at the property?
Yes, WiFi is available throughout Sunshine Cottage so guests can stay connected during their stay. The property also has a television in the living area for evening entertainment after days out exploring.

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Sunshine Cottage Reviews

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