The space

Set in the peaceful hamlet of Atlow, close to Ashbourne, Hillcroft is a stylish modern holiday house made for a relaxed, sociable hen weekend in the Derbyshire Dales. With space for up to 16 guests across 8 bedrooms, it gives everyone room to spread out while still feeling wonderfully connected as a group.

The big draw here is the setting. Rolling countryside surrounds the house, and the open-plan living areas make the most of those views with a bright kitchen and dining space that opens straight onto a huge balcony. It is an easy place to settle into hen weekend mode: fizz in the sunshine, a long group dinner, morning coffee outside, or a slower Sunday brunch before everyone heads home.

Hillcroft works especially well for hens who want the best of both worlds. You can keep things low-key with a cosy night in, private dining, games and cocktails at the house, or build your weekend around Peak District walks, watersports at Carsington Water, country pubs and a trip into Ashbourne for independent shops and cafes. It is countryside without feeling cut off.

Inside the house

The house sleeps up to 16 adults in 8 beautifully styled bedrooms, and all bedrooms can be arranged as doubles or twins. That flexibility is ideal for hen groups, whether you are planning a weekend for close friends, sisters, cousins or a mixed-age celebration. Four bedrooms have en-suite bathrooms, two share a Jack and Jill bathroom, and there is also a large family bathroom with a statement teardrop bath and separate walk-in shower, so getting ready time is much easier than in a standard holiday cottage.

The heart of the house is the open-plan kitchen and dining area. The kitchen is well equipped for group catering, with a built-in Neff electric hob, microwave and two electric cookers, making it easy to prepare a big breakfast, set up a grazing table or bring in a private chef for a special meal. The dining table seats up to 22 guests, so your whole hen party can sit together for dinner, speeches, games or a beautifully decorated bride-to-be brunch.

There is also a vast lounge with plenty of soft seating and a cosy log burner. It is a lovely space for a chilled evening in after a day exploring the Derbyshire Dales, with room for everyone to gather for music, movies, hen party games or a relaxed catch-up. The property also includes workspace, handy if anyone needs to quickly check in before fully switching off for the weekend.

Hen weekend highlights

Hillcroft has the kind of outdoor space that makes a countryside hen weekend feel extra special. The enormous balcony, finished with artificial grass and outdoor seating for up to 22 people, is a brilliant spot for welcome drinks, a BBQ lunch, cocktail hour or a group photo session with the hills in the background. The property also lists a BBQ, so you can plan an easy al fresco meal without needing to head out.

The gardens wrap around the house, giving the group lots of space for relaxed outdoor time. To the rear, there is a lawned area with an additional table and chairs, while the front has a large field area that creates a wonderfully open feel. Bring garden games, set up a picnic-style afternoon, organise a mini sports day, or simply let everyone drift between the balcony, lounge and lawn.

While Hillcroft does not advertise a hot tub, spa or games room, it has plenty of hen-friendly features for a memorable weekend at the house: flexible bedrooms, several bathrooms, big communal spaces, outdoor seating, BBQ facilities and beautiful countryside views. It is particularly well suited to groups who want a stylish base for bonding, dining and celebrating together rather than a party pad in the middle of a city.

For activity-loving hens, secure bike storage is also available, which is a great bonus if your group wants to explore the local trails or arrange cycle hire nearby.

Location & getting around

Hillcroft is located in Atlow, a pretty hamlet in the Derbyshire Dales, close to the medieval market town of Ashbourne. Ashbourne is known for its independent shops, cafes and characterful streets, making it a lovely option for a gentle daytime wander, brunch stop or relaxed afternoon out with the group.

Carsington Water is around a 5-minute drive away and is a fantastic choice for hen weekend activities. The reservoir offers watersports, cycle hire and walking routes, plus a visitor centre, cafe, ice cream parlour, picnic area and outdoor playground. It is ideal if you want to add a bit of fresh-air fun to the itinerary without travelling far.

The Peak District is also within easy reach, opening up plenty of options for scenic walks, countryside pubs and group adventures. For a bigger day out, Alton Towers is approximately a 30-minute drive away, which could be a fun choice for thrill-seeking hens. Taxis or pre-booked transport are recommended for evenings out or group trips, especially if you are planning drinks in Ashbourne or a nearby village pub.

Enquire today

If you are planning a hen weekend in the Derbyshire Dales and want a spacious house with beautiful views, flexible bedrooms and brilliant group areas, Hillcroft is a strong choice. Send an enquiry with your preferred dates, group size and any plans you have in mind, and the host can help confirm availability and details for your stay.