Donisthorpe Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Donisthorpe Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Donisthorpe sits right on the edge of the National Forest, giving you loads of options for days out. The village itself is small but makes an excellent base for exploring the wider area and coming back to your hot tub afterwards is the perfect end to busy days.

Conkers (DE12 6GA) is just 5 minutes away and scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. It's open 10am-5pm daily and offers 120 acres of woodland adventures including high ropes, train rides and indoor play zones. The 4D cinema is particularly good when the weather turns.

Moira Furnace Museum (DE12 6AT) opens 10am-4pm Wednesday to Sunday and gives a fascinating look at the area's industrial past. TripAdvisor users rate it 4/5, praising the canal boat trips that run on summer weekends.

Ashby de la Zouch Castle (LE65 1BR) is 15 minutes by car and scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. Open 10am-5pm daily, this English Heritage site lets you climb the tower for amazing views across four counties. The underground passage is a hit with kids.

Pet Friendly

I've found Donisthorpe to be excellent for dog owners. The Donisthorpe Woodland Park has miles of paths through former colliery land that's been transformed into beautiful woodland. Dogs can run free in most areas but watch for cyclists on the main paths.

The Miner's Welfare pub (DE12 7PF) welcomes dogs both inside and in their beer garden. They even keep treats behind the bar! Their Sunday roasts are legendary locally.

For supplies, Pets at Home in Swadlincote (DE11 0AD) is just 10 minutes away. Most cottages with hot tubs in Donisthorpe have enclosed gardens, but do check the specific property details as fence heights vary.

We recommend bringing towels specifically for your dog - the local paths can get muddy after rain and nobody wants a muddy dog jumping into a hot tub!

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Donisthorpe

The Ashby Woulds Heritage Trail starts right in Donisthorpe and follows the former railway line. It's completely flat, making it perfect for bikes or pushchairs. The 4-mile route to Measham passes through tunnels of trees with information boards explaining the area's mining history. I've walked it dozens of times and always spot something new.

Donisthorpe Woodland Park covers the site of the former Donisthorpe Colliery. The 31-hectare park has fishing lakes, wildflower meadows and woodland walks. The contrast between today's peaceful landscape and its industrial past is striking. Visitors consistently mention the abundance of wildlife - kingfishers are regularly spotted around the lakes.

Hicks Lodge National Forest Cycle Centre (DE12 7NX) offers bike hire (£20 for adults, £15 for kids) and trails for all abilities. The blue trail is 9km and suitable for families, while the more challenging red route tests experienced riders. The café serves excellent cake - the perfect reward after cycling! One recent visitor wrote: "Great trails for all abilities and ages. The café does amazing food too."

Is Donisthorpe good for families?

Yes! Families love Donisthorpe for its central location and outdoor activities. Conkers adventure centre is nearby and most cottages with hot tubs are family-friendly with enclosed gardens. The flat cycling routes are perfect for children of all ages.

When is the best time to visit Donisthorpe?

Spring and summer showcase the area's natural beauty, but autumn in the National Forest is spectacular with amazing colours. Winter stays are cosy with many cottages featuring log burners alongside hot tubs. The area is less crowded outside school holidays.

Can I go somewhere for a special meal near Donisthorpe?

The Ferrers Arms in Lount (LE65 1RT) is a 15-minute drive and offers excellent gastropub food. For something really special, try The Bull's Head in Repton (DE65 6FU), which has won numerous awards for its modern British menu.

Are there any good walks directly from Donisthorpe?

Yes! The Ashby Woulds Heritage Trail starts in the village. For a longer walk, follow the trail to Moira and continue to Conkers. This creates a 7-mile circular route with plenty of places to stop for refreshments.

What's the nearest town for shopping?

Ashby-de-la-Zouch is 15 minutes away and has a lovely high street with independent shops, cafés and a market on Saturdays. For bigger shops, Burton-upon-Trent is 20 minutes away with all major retailers.

Is there public transport from Donisthorpe?

Limited. The 9A bus connects to Ashby and Burton, but services are infrequent. Having a car is recommended to make the most of your stay and to reach your hot tub cottage easily.

1. Conkers Official Website
2. National Forest Information
3. Ashby Castle Visitor Information