Get More From Your Foolow Hot Tub Cottage Break
Booking cottages with hot tubs in Foolow puts you right in the heart of the Peak District with the kind of luxury retreat you simply won't find in a standard hotel. This tiny Derbyshire village sits at around 300 metres above sea level and offers genuine peace alongside easy access to some of England's most dramatic limestone scenery.
We love how Foolow combines proper countryside isolation with practical proximity to major attractions. You can book everything from boutique cottages and log cabins to large holiday houses perfect for groups. Many properties come with private hot tubs and are dog friendly too.
What to do on a family or couple's hot tub break in Foolow
Foolow itself is a conservation village with a distinctive duck pond and traditional stone cottages clustered around a small green. The village name comes from the Old English meaning "multi-coloured hill" which makes sense when you see the patchwork fields surrounding it.
This location works brilliantly for hot tub breaks because you get genuine seclusion without being completely remote. The village sits between Eyam and Tideswell with Bakewell just 20 minutes away. After a day exploring you can return to your cottage with hot tub and soak under the stars.
Sightseeing in Foolow
The area around Foolow showcases classic White Peak landscape with dry stone walls cutting across rolling pastures. You're surrounded by walking routes including sections of the Limestone Way. The nearby villages of Eyam and Tideswell both have fascinating histories and the whole area feels genuinely unspoilt.
Top 5 attractions you have to see in Foolow
We've picked out five must-visit spots that show off what makes this corner of Derbyshire so special. Each one offers something different whether you're after history or natural beauty.
Eyam Museum and Plague Village
Just two miles from Foolow sits Eyam where villagers famously quarantined themselves in 1665 to prevent plague spreading. The museum tells this remarkable story through original documents and artefacts. You can walk the boundary stones and visit the church with its plague register.
Chatsworth House
This grand stately home sits 6 miles southeast and ranks among Britain's finest country houses. The 105-acre garden includes fountains and a maze whilst the house displays centuries of collected art. It's a proper day out and works brilliantly for families or couples seeking something special.
Monsal Trail
This 8.5-mile former railway line runs through stunning limestone dales with five tunnels and the famous Monsal Head viaduct. You can walk or cycle sections with the nearest access point at Bakewell. The views across Monsal Dale are genuinely breathtaking.
Tideswell Church
Known as the Cathedral of the Peak this 14th-century church dominates the nearby village of Tideswell. The perpendicular Gothic architecture is exceptional for a village church. Inside you'll find original medieval woodwork and stunning stained glass windows.
Cressbrook Dale
This nature reserve protects a classic limestone dale with rare wildflowers and butterflies. The walking is easy along the valley floor with dramatic rock faces rising on both sides. Spring brings carpets of early purple orchids whilst summer sees the dale alive with colour.
Don't Miss These...
| Attraction | What you'll experience | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Eyam Museum and Plague Village | Fascinating historical story with village walk and museum exhibits | Everyone |
| Chatsworth House | Grand stately home with extensive gardens and art collections | Families |
| Monsal Trail | Scenic walking and cycling through limestone dales with viaduct views | Everyone |
| Tideswell Church | Impressive medieval architecture and peaceful village atmosphere | Couples |
| Cressbrook Dale | Wildlife-rich nature reserve with easy valley walks | Everyone |
Visitor FAQs
How do I get to Foolow?
The nearest train station is at Grindleford about 8 miles away. Most visitors drive with the village sitting just off the B6049 between Eyam and Tideswell. Sheffield is 30 minutes north whilst Manchester sits 45 minutes west.
What family activities are available near Foolow?
Chatsworth House offers adventure playgrounds and farmyard activities. The Monsal Trail provides safe cycling for children. Nearby Bakewell has swimming pools and the town makes a great base for exploring. Many large family cottages in the area come with games rooms.
Where are the best romantic spots?
Monsal Head viewpoint at sunset is spectacular. The quiet lanes around Foolow are perfect for evening walks. Book a table at The Bulls Head in Foolow or visit one of the country pubs in Eyam or Tideswell for intimate dinners.
Is there good shopping nearby?
Bakewell offers the best shopping with independent shops and the famous Monday market. You'll find outdoor gear shops in Hathersage. For major retail you'll need Sheffield or the retail parks around Chesterfield.
Are hot tub cottages suitable for winter breaks?
Absolutely. We find hot tub stays are brilliant in winter when you can enjoy the tub whatever the weather. Many holiday lets have log burners too. Book early for new year and last minute deals often appear for 1 night stays.
Cottages with hot tubs in Foolow give you the perfect combination of Peak District adventure and proper relaxation. Whether you're after cheap cottages for 2 or large cottages for groups you'll find excellent holiday homes here. The village location means you can visit major attractions then retreat to your own private hot tub. Pet friendly cottages let you bring dogs along whilst luxury cottages and villas offer swimming pools and jacuzzis for the ultimate getaway.