Guests say
Little Gem is highly praised for its high-quality furnishings, cleanliness, and welcoming atmosphere. Guests appreciate the thoughtful touches like welcome packs and the hot tub. The property's location offers easy access to local attractions and the Peak District. Some minor issues with facilities and maintenance are noted, but overall, guests report a delightful stay and express a desire to return.
Guests consistently describe the property as clean, well-maintained, and immaculate, indicating a high standard of cleanliness. There is a single mention of dust and cobwebs, but this seems to be an exception rather than the rule.
The property is appreciated for its quiet, rural setting with easy access to main roads, local towns, and attractions like Alton Towers. Its proximity to the Peak District and scenic countryside views are also highlighted.
Reviews frequently mention the comfortable furnishings, cosy atmosphere, and quality bedding. The property is described as warm and inviting, with a few guests noting the beds were a bit too firm for their preference.
The property is well-equipped with modern appliances and a hot tub, though some guests experienced issues with TV systems and water pressure. The lack of a washing machine is noted, and while there is an EV charger, the payment system could be modernised.
Many guests are delighted by the thoughtful welcome packs, which sometimes include items like Prosecco and chocolates. While these gifts are warmly received, it's important to note that such extras, while generous, are not guaranteed for every stay.
About this property
A delightful, detached barn conversion, Little Gem is nestled on the outskirts of Marchington, Staffordshire. With two double bedrooms hosting en-suite shower rooms, this property is the perfect rural escape for two couples. The barn conversion is located on a gated property with off-road parking providing space for four cars, as well as an electric charge point, where you can unpack with ease and admire the picturesque countryside setting. Step inside to feel the luxury of underfloor heating throughout and find a combination of rustic and contemporary features in this beautiful all-ground-floor barn conversion. Relax in the inviting sofas after a long journey in the bright and airy open-plan living space, whether that's to plan your holiday or host a movie night on the Smart TV, and there is the addition of Netflix, Prime and an Amazon Alexa. Set the stylish glass dining table ready for dinner, which can be prepared by the designated chef in the kitchen area; soft grey and blue cupboards and tiling make for an attractive space equipped with electric oven, induction hob and dishwasher to keep the space tidy. A long day trekking through the countryside requires plenty of rest in the evenings; choose between a king-size with a Smart TV and a double, both of which have contemporary en-suite shower rooms to rinse off the day. Why not unwind in the outdoor hot tub under the stars and let any stress roll off your shoulders? The rear patio also offers stylish outdoor rattan dining table and furniture to sip a well-earned glass of wine to end the day. Explore your wonderful surroundings by venturing along one of the numerous bridal paths and country lanes, with Marchington Woodlands around a mile away. Take a break from cooking and head into Marchington for dinner at the welcoming, Georgian country pub, The Dog & Partridge, or stock up on the essentials at the convenient store before taking a riverside walk along the picturesque River Dove. For a taste of history, head to the superb Sudbury Hall, one of Britain's finest country houses and Grade I listed building, now hosting The National Trust Museum of Childhood. Thrill-seekers are in a prime location to visit Alton Towers with an abundance of rides, rollercoasters and attractions on offer for the whole family, from a waterpark and crazy golf to child-friendly rides and play areas. Uttoxeter is an excellent market town where visitors can discover the stories and events that shaped the town in Redfern's Cottage Museum, pack your clubs and head to the golf club, and picnic in the sunshine at Bramshall Road Park. Journey south east to Burton upon Trent for a variety of riverside bars and restaurants for an evening out, after a guided tour of British brewing at The National Brewery Centre, whilst Branston Water Park awaits for wildlife and walking paths along a serene waterfront. Further north takes you to Ashbourne, another pretty market town and the perfect pit spot before your adventures into the Peak District's outstanding landscapes; admire St Oswald's Church, walk or cycle through Ashbourne Tunnel, or pick up takeaway food from the market place and find a quiet spot in Ashbourne Park. Escape to Little Gem away from the hustle and bustle to this picturesque countryside setting.
Marchington is a little village nestled in lovely rural surroundings on the edge of the Marchington Woodlands, close to the Peak District National Park. Marchington is listed in the Domesday Book and, because it runs alongside the River Dove, provides some wonderful walking opportunities. The Dog and Partridge, a nice pub providing delicious food, The Barn Indian Restaurant, a small shop, and two churches are all located in the settlement.
Accommodation
All-ground-floor.
Two bedrooms: 1 x king-size with Smart TV and en-suite walk-in shower, basin and WC, 1 x double with en-suite walk-in shower, basin and WC.
Open-plan living space with kitchen, dining area and sitting area
Electric central heating with underfloor heating and woodburning stove.
Electric oven, induction hob, microwave, fridge, dishwasher.
2 x Smart TV's, Amazon Alexa, Netflix, Amazon Prime, WiFi.
Fuel and power included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Highchair and travel cot available on request.
Off-road parking for 4 cars on private driveway.
Electric car charger available on driveway.
Rear patio with furniture and hot tub.
Front gravelled area with furniture.
Sorry, no pets and no smoking.
Shop 1.5 miles, pub 1.2 miles.
Note: Stables are available for guests with horses, which can be arranged with the owner prior before arrival.
Note: We are encouraging sensible use of energy so if you do not require the use of the hot tub please let the Sykes office now and we will pass this on to the owner
Nearby points of interest
- Alton Towers
- Cbeebies Land
- Dovedale
- Kedleston Hall
Reviews (58)
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Kathleen
We were so pleased with the accommodation, quality of fittings and furniture, provisions and the privacy. We have already booked for next year.
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Shaun
The property is immaculate and decorated/fitted out to a very high standard. The bedding and towels are all high quality and there is everything there you could want or need. An especially nice touch was the bottle of Prosecco and chocolates waiting for us, very much appreciated. The hot tub was the perfect place to relax after a long day out, private, sheltered and beautifully illuminated by a string of outside lights. All in all, a lovely stay and I would thoroughly recommend this property to anyone, my wife and I loved it and were reluctant to leave today!
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Zoe
The cottage was delightful in every way, with the hot tub being a nice touch. The beds were super comfortable, as were the sofas. The kitchen had everything we needed too. Loads of things to do locally, or within an hours drive of Little Gem with the option to explore further afield too! Loads of National Trust places, Trentham Monkey Forest and of course the stunning Peak District. Thank you for letting us stay! We will definitely be back for another visit!