The space

Set in the pretty hamlet of Atlow near Ashbourne, Hillcroft gives your hen group the best of both worlds: a peaceful Derbyshire Dales setting with plenty of room to celebrate, unwind and spend proper time together. Sleeping up to 16 adults across 8 beautifully styled bedrooms, this large modern self-catering house is designed for groups who want generous communal spaces, flexible sleeping arrangements and countryside views without compromising on comfort.

The real scene-stealer is the open plan kitchen and dining area, which leads straight out onto an enormous balcony with artificial grass and outdoor seating for up to 22 people. It is a brilliant setup for a relaxed arrival drink, a grazing table, a private chef evening, a DIY cocktail session or a long brunch the morning after. With rolling Derbyshire countryside all around, the balcony gives the whole weekend a special occasion feel from the moment you arrive.

Hillcroft works particularly well for hen parties who want to keep everyone together under one roof. There is space to socialise as a full group, but also plenty of quieter corners for catching up, getting ready or taking a breather between activities. Whether your plans are low-key and cosy or packed with daytime adventures, the house gives you a stylish and practical base for the whole celebration.

Inside the house

The accommodation is arranged across 8 bedrooms, with flexible beds that can be made up as doubles or twins, making it easy to suit bridesmaids, family members and friends travelling as a mixed group. Four bedrooms have en suite bathrooms, two bedrooms share a Jack and Jill bathroom, and there is also a large family bathroom featuring a teardrop bath and a separate walk-in shower. That bathroom setup is a real bonus on a hen weekend, especially when everyone is getting ready for dinner or a night out at the same time.

The kitchen is well equipped for group catering, with a built-in Neff electric hob, microwave and two electric cookers, so you can prepare everything from a cooked breakfast to a full celebratory meal. If you are planning to bring in a private chef, arrange a buffet, or set up a themed dinner night, the layout makes hosting easy. The dining area has a large table with chairs for up to 22 guests, giving you one central spot for meals, games, speeches, decorations and fizz.

For downtime, the spacious lounge has plenty of soft seating and a cosy log burner, making it a comfortable place to gather after a day exploring the Peak District or celebrating in nearby Ashbourne. It is the kind of room that suits everything from chilled film time and hen party quizzes to present opening, planning the next day, or simply putting your feet up with a drink. There is also workspace available, handy if anyone needs to check in with travel plans, playlists, itineraries or last-minute party details.

Hen weekend highlights

Hillcroft is a strong choice for hen groups because it gives you the space to create the weekend your bride actually wants. The huge balcony is ideal for welcome drinks, outdoor dining, photos with the countryside backdrop, or a slow Sunday breakfast in the fresh air. With seating for up to 22 outside, nobody has to perch on a windowsill or drift between rooms while the group is together.

The garden wraps around the property and includes a lawned area to the rear with an additional table and chairs for four, plus a larger field area to the front. That outdoor space works well for relaxed garden games, a summer BBQ, yoga on the lawn, flower crown workshops, treasure hunts, picnic-style lunches or just a quiet morning coffee before the day begins. The BBQ adds another easy hosting option, especially for groups who want a sociable evening at the house rather than heading out for every meal.

While there is no need to over-plan every moment, Hillcroft gives you the freedom to bring in activities that suit your group. The open plan kitchen-diner is great for cocktail making, life drawing, afternoon tea, craft sessions or a private dining experience. The lounge can become your base for games, music, photo slideshows or a relaxed pamper evening. Secure bike storage is also available, which is useful for active groups planning to cycle around the local area or Carsington Water.

The overall feel is polished but practical: enough luxury for a special celebration, enough space for a large group, and enough countryside calm to make the weekend feel like a real break.

Location & getting around

Hillcroft sits in the Derbyshire Dales, close to the medieval market town of Ashbourne. Ashbourne is known for its independent shops, cafes and attractive streets, making it a lovely option for a relaxed wander, brunch, coffee stop or pre-arranged meal. It is a great alternative to a busy city break if your hen group wants scenery, space and a more laid-back base while still having places to visit nearby.

Carsington Water is only around a 5-minute drive away and is a brilliant daytime option for a hen weekend itinerary. You can look into water sports, cycle hire and walking routes around the reservoir, or keep things simple with a visit to the visitor centre, cafe and ice cream parlour. The picnic areas and open spaces make it easy to plan a casual afternoon out, especially if your group includes mixed ages or anyone who prefers fresh air over late nights.

The wider Peak District is within easy reach, giving you access to beautiful walks, viewpoints, villages and country pubs. For a more playful day out, Alton Towers is around a 30-minute drive away, which could be a fun addition for thrill-seeking brides and their crew. Because the house is in a hamlet, taxis or pre-booked transport are worth organising in advance for meals out, activities or any evening plans in Ashbourne and beyond.

Back at the house, private countryside surroundings mean you can make the most of your time together without feeling squeezed into a standard rental. It is a location that suits slow mornings, scenic afternoons and celebratory evenings in equal measure.

Enquire today

If Hillcroft sounds like the right fit for your hen party, send an enquiry with your dates, group size and any plans you already have in mind. The host can confirm availability, sleeping arrangements and practical details, helping you shape a Derbyshire Dales weekend that feels easy, sociable and tailored to your bride.