Steam Mill Lodges

Finally made time for a romantic retreat, just the two of you? Steam Mill’s micro-lodges are a great choice for a cosy comfortable base for the weekend. These lodges are gorgeous to come back to after a long day of exploring the beautiful scenery of the surrounding National Forest of Oakthorpe, South Derbyshire.  Part of Hoseasons Bouja Luxury Boutique Breaks Collection, you’re guaranteed a magnificent holiday at Steam Mill Lodges! 

Beyond views of the National Forest, you’ll also be able to admire the glistening lake which the lodges surround – and any angling enthusiasts can try their hand catching the fish there, as fishing is permitted on the lake (charges apply) too. If you’d rather simply walk to see nature than catch it, there’s some stunning countryside trails in the nearby area for you to wander through as well. 

 Bring your canine companions along to Spindle lodge – the only pet friendly lodge on-site (extra charge applies). Sleeping up to two people over one bedroom, there’s room to relax inside – with an open plan lounge/diner/kitchen – and outside, thanks to patio furniture on the decking and your own private hot tub.

Thanks to the wooden shelter over the tub, there’s no need to worry about the weather, so make the most of it!  

For those leaving any four-legged friends at home, Oak lodge makes a great alternative. With a very similar lay-out to Spindle. This one-bedroom lodge offers flatscreen televisions in both the kitchen/diner, as well as the bedroom, and a welcome pack on arrival including complimentary use of bath robes and slippers – perfect for after the hot tub! 

If you happen to stay in Spindle lodge, then you’ll be needing somewhere to walk the dog, but thankfully there’s plenty of options nearby that’ll not only get them the exercise they need but provide remarkable views for yourself! Sence Valley Forest Park, for example, surrounds the River Sence as well as three major lakes – so watch out for the wildfowl they attract. 

For a fantastic day out head to one of South Derbyshire’s finest gardens, Bluebell Arboretum and Nursery. Despite its name, there’s no bluebells on-site! But rather the woodland gardens there is a Royal Horticultural Society partner garden, started in 1992 and has now expanded over nine acres. Don’t forget to stop by the nursery to browse their range of herbaceous plants after getting some inspiration from the gardens!

Whilst the contemporary kitchen of each micro-lodge is definitely worth using, there’s always those days on holiday when you don’t feel like cooking!  Luckily, Oakthorpe has plenty of options – like the Lakeside Bistro for example. Whether you go for breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea, the views over the lake and its wildlife. Vegetarian meal options are also available.

For pub grub, head to The Halfway House. Relax in the beer garden or, for those with a sweet tooth, sample one of Zaras cheeky cheesecakes. Beer aficionados will also appreciate the range of drinks sourced from local brewery’s on-top of the three guest ales provided weekly and their resident Brass beer – there’s plenty to choose from!