Crag Hall

Set on the northern cusp of the beautiful Peak District National Park, Crag Hall is an imposing Georgian sandstone abode, commanding wonderful views over the Cheshire Plain, and further afield into North Wales.

This country house is the perfect destination to gather friends and family together in a manor absolutely made for celebrations, multi-generational get-togethers, holidays and relaxation.

Built in 1815, the house itself is a Grade II listed Georgian property, bursting with period features including high ceilings and full-length windows, yet maintaining the welcoming feel of a large family home.

In fact, Crag Hall is the private country home of The Earl and Countess of Derby, and until recently it was only used by close friends and family. But now, it is available by exclusive appointment.

Each of the 11 bedrooms have been personally designed by The Countess, combining high quality soft furnishings with original furniture, to offer guests luxury and amazing views over the surrounding countryside. The convenient mix of super kings, twins and singles ensures everyone is happy.

The extensive grounds and mature gardens offer plenty of space for youngsters to run around and indulge in a game of croquet or badminton on the lawns. During the evening, the large snooker table in the games room is always a huge hit, providing a wonderful opportunity for a family tournament while enjoying a chat and a drink.

The kitchen and dining facilities match the size and scale of the rest of the house. There’s a well-equipped kitchen for feeding your group, with multiple ovens, hobs and fridges, alongside an AGA and dishwasher (because no-one wants to do that much washing-up).

Don’t fancy cooking, or prefer to indulge your inner lord or lady of the manor? We can arrange a formal dining experience for 20 guests, with menus created by a professional chef.

If you’re after something more laidback and summery, we’ve got the connections to lay on a special barbeque too, for an alfresco garden party to remember.

And finally, multiple living spaces with comfy seating and open fires allow flexibility for socialising. So everyone can gather together to watch a film or chat, while individuals wanting a bit of privacy can head for one of the other sitting rooms.

About the location

Ideally situated for visitors from Liverpool, Manchester and Sheffield, Crag Hall’s Peak District postcode is also just 35 mins off the M6.

Edmund’s favourite feature

“While the owners have made this place a proper manor house retreat, pride of place is the wonderful Peak District setting. Whether you’re the outdoorsy type, or prefer to admire from afar (G&T in hand), Crag Hall will oblige!”

Things to do

With breath-taking views across some of the country’s most awe-inspiring wild scenery, grab your walking boots and head for the magnificent Shutlingslow (known locally as the ‘Matterhorn of Cheshire’). The panoramic views are worth the steep climb.

On a clear day you can see views far over the Cheshire plain and Peak District, all the way to the Clwydian Hills, the Mersey estuary and to the industrial landscape of the River Trent.

For something more sedate, the local pub is within walking distance and the towns of Macclesfield and Buxton are each within 15 mins drive.