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Browse through our blog posts to find out what life is like at Hoe Grange Holidays along with some great ideas for days out in the Peak District.

Accessible holidays without a car: everything you need for a car-free countryside escape

January 20, 2026
January 20, 2026 - Accessible holidays without a car: everything you need for a car-free countryside escape
-Most Recent

Car-free and carefree: how to enjoy an accessible countryside break without the stress of driving

Not everyone has a car, and not everyone wants to drive. But when it comes to accessible holidays in the UK, it can often feel like car travel is the only option, especially if you’re dreaming of countryside views or have a long list of equipment to pack.

The good news? You can absolutely enjoy a relaxing, fun and wheelchair accessible holiday in the Peak District without a car. At Hoe Grange Holidays, we welcome guests arriving by public transport all year round, and we’ve got the setup, equipment and support to make sure your stay works for you. Even better, you get 10% off your stay if you travel by public transport!

Looking for a countryside break without the stress of driving? Our accessible log cabins are designed to give you freedom, comfort and confidence – with or without a car.

Meet Anthony and Ben: countryside adventures, no car required

[Video description: A wheelchair user and his friend using a train and accessible bus service to get to their log cabin holiday in the Peak District]

Last summer, wheelchair user Anthony and his friend Ben wanted a countryside weekend away somewhere peaceful, scenic and fun. They didn’t have a car, but that didn’t stop them.

A wheelchair user meeting the pygmy goats at Hoe Grange

They hopped on a train to Cromford, then booked a Derbyshire Connect journey straight to their log cabin door here at Hoe Grange. They had a brilliant time - they fired up the BBQ, watched baby goats being born (yes, really), and tried nearly everything on offer, including the pizza oven experience, our hot tub with hoist, and the Boma off-road wheelchair.

Mid-week, they booked another Derbyshire Connect trip to Carsington Water, where Anthony tried Sailability, an adaptive sailing experience on one of Derbyshire’s most scenic reservoirs.

They packed a lot into a few days. And they definitely proved you don’t need a car to have a proper countryside adventure.

Getting to Hoe Grange without a car

A wheelchair user and his friend on a train station platform

While we are tucked away in the hills, reaching us by public transport is easier than you might think, as long as you plan ahead.

Nearest train stations

  • Cromford (15 minutes by taxi or community transport)
  • Matlock or Belper (both around 20–25 minutes away)

Derbyshire Connect

Derbyshire Connect is a flexible public transport service that works more like a taxi than a bus. It’s:

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Bookable up to 7 days in advance
  • Able to carry bikes and mobility aids

You can book it to collect you from the station, bring you right to your cabin door at Hoe Grange and even use it for local outings during your stay.

Book via 01335 342951 or email bookings@derbyshireconnect.co.uk.

Swifty’s Taxis

If you’d prefer a private taxi, local firm Swifty’s Taxis offer:

  • Wheelchair accessible vehicles
  • Dog-friendly options
  • Pickups from Cromford, Belper, or even East Midlands Airport

Call 01773 292020 to book in advance.

Top tip: Make sure to plan your return journey when booking your arrival, especially if using Derbyshire Connect.

Make memories without leaving the farm

You don’t need to go far to have a full countryside experience. In fact, some of the best moments happen right here on the farm!

Soak under the stars in your own private hot tub

Two men in an accessible hot tub with a hoist at Hoe Grange

The water’s warm and the stars are bright above you. If you book a stay in Daisybank, the hot tub (with hoist) is perfect for easing tired muscles and switching off for a while.

Fire up the pizza oven and make your own feast

A man in a wheelchair making a pizza using the pizza oven at Hoe Grange

Roll the dough, choose your toppings, and enjoy your handiwork with a cold drink in hand. Whether it’s a date night, family fun or time to catch up with your mates, it’s always a hit.

Cuddle goats, meet the horses and make a few furry friends

A wheelchair user meeting a large black and white horse at Hoe Grange

Our animals are part of the family. You might spot baby lambs in spring, help collect eggs from the hens, or meet our mischievous pygmy goats (Ripple, Raspberry, and their cheeky kids). Rocco and Oliver – our much-loved horses – are always happy to say hello too (especially if you bring a carrot).

Enjoy long, laid-back evenings by the BBQ

A man cooking sausages on a BBQ

There’s something special about cooking outdoors, whatever the season. We’ve got everything you need, from BBQ tools to incredibly tasty local sausages in our on-site shop.

Watch the stars come out over the hills

A dark night sky with stars

With no city lights to blur the view, the night sky here is something special. Wrap up warm, sit back and take it in.

Relax even more with a spa treatment in your cabin

A spa therapist setting up massage tables in an accessible log cabin at Hoe Grange

You don’t need to go anywhere to feel pampered. Our friends at The Wellness Brand bring the spa to you with tailored treatments delivered in the comfort and privacy of your cabin. Whether it’s a massage, pedicure, or a calming facial, they’ll shape the session around your needs.

Explore from your cabin door

A woman in a woolly hat on an off-road wheelchair on the High Peak Trail

Get off the beaten track and explore the brilliant Miles without Stiles routes that start right from your cabin. No stiles, no barriers – just views, fresh air and freedom to roam!

No car? No problem – it’s all here!

Accessible days out by public or community transport

There’s plenty of accessible fun beyond the farm too. Here are a few nearby adventures you can reach using Derbyshire Connect or an accessible taxi:

Carsington Water Sailability

Two men enjoying sailing on an accessible boat at Carsington Water

A fantastic inclusive sailing experience offering adapted boats and friendly volunteers. Book in advance for a weekday session and let the breeze do the hard work!

Local pubs and cafés

A steaming bowl of mac and cheese served with garlic bread at the Miners' Arms at Carsington

There are some brilliant countryside pubs a short trip away. If you’d like specific recommendations (especially dog-friendly or wheelchair accessible options), just ask - we’re happy to help plan your route.

Heritage spots

Chatsworth House and Gardens

Derbyshire and the Peak District is full of accessible places to visit, from art galleries to historic mills. With flexible transport, we can help you find something that suits your interests and energy levels.

Accessible walks and outdoor adventures

A group of people on an accessible fishing boat at Ladybower Reservoir in the Peak District, ready to fish with rods.

From fishing and cycling to climbing and horse riding, you can explore the Peak District’s best accessible outdoor adventures – all without a car.

If you’re looking for something more peaceful, discover the National Park’s sensory trails too.

What makes Hoe Grange ideal for car-free accessible stays?

When you’re not travelling with your own kit, you need peace of mind that what’s here will work for you. That’s where we come in.

Free accessible equipment hire

From mobile hoists to shower chairs, toilet frames and more, you can book what you need in advance and we’ll have it ready for your arrival.

Log cabins designed with accessibility in mind

Wide doorways, level thresholds, roll-in showers and more. Each cabin is different, so we’ll help you choose the right fit for your needs.

Detailed information for peace of mind

We’ve worked with AccessAble to produce Detailed Access Guides of all our cabins and pods, so you can check everything from the door widths to the bed heights in advance! There’s a full list of all the equipment available on our website too, complete with pictures and specifications.

Personal support before and during your stay

Whether it’s help booking taxis, planning your journey or answering those “what’s the fridge like?” questions, we’re real people based right here on site, and we’re happy to help.

Peaceful surroundings and space to roam

From the moment you arrive, everything slows down. You’ve got the space, flexibility and support to just be - and that’s what a good holiday should feel like.

Ready for your own car-free countryside escape?

Daisybank accessible log cabin at Hoe Grange Holidays with a hot tub outside - the perfect romantic getawayWhether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a trip with friends, or quality time with family, you don’t need to drive to enjoy the magic of the countryside.

At Hoe Grange, we’ll help you build the kind of break that works for you: stress-free, scenic and full of moments that make you smile.

Have questions about access or travel? Just give us a call or drop us an email - we’re here to help.

Or go ahead and book your accessible log cabin online to start planning your car-free countryside adventure - and don’t forget to claim your 10% off for guests arriving by public transport!

-Caroline

in the press

our farm

our environment

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Hoe Grange Holidays Tripadvisor Comments...

  • star rating  What a wonderful find. As our first experience of needing accessible accommodation we could not have wished for better. Beautiful well equipped lodges in lovely surroundings. We stayed in both... read more

    L9943KBlesleym
    April 3, 2020

    star rating  We stayed in Skylark, one of the two glamping pods available at Hoe Grange in February 2020.

    Felicity & David welcomed us when we arrived to show us around... read more

    HelenLCarter
    February 6, 2020

    star rating  We love this place. Very wheelchair friendly, really well equipped and comfortable, with easy access by car to lots of places of interest particularly Crich Tramway Village, Chatsworth, Bakewell and... read more

    dghiggs61
    October 25, 2019
  • star rating  lovely surroundings real farm country with chickens paying you a visit nice decking area to chill at the end of the day accommodation very good plenty to do nearby... read more

    vincent s
    July 28, 2019

    star rating  We stayed for a night in one of the cabins . The cabin was spotless and very well equipped , lots of extra touches were added like fresh eggs and... read more

    Ajtravels14
    February 3, 2020

    star rating  Stayed last week, from 6th to 13th September in the log cabin called Hipley. This was amazing, it was our first visit but certainly not our last. Gold standard disability... read more

    548julie
    September 14, 2019
  • star rating  A beautiful place to stay! Amazingly run family business! Everyone were very welcoming, friendly and cozy! The skylark pod we stayed in was very clean, cozy and well equipped! The... read more

    sophiee249
    January 2, 2020

    star rating  We wanted a complete break and some peace and quiet and this was perfect. The caravan was secluded with beautiful views over the countryside. Everything was spotlessly clean and well... read more

    joanne B
    June 4, 2019

    star rating  Another great holiday at Hoe Grange - such a great place for us all to holiday as a family - this time with a baby, a 3 yr old, a... read more

    Thesamps
    October 4, 2019
  • star rating  We stayed in Rainster cabin for a long weekend 6 th to 9 th September. This was my 5 th visit to the amazing Hoe Grange. I had visited before... read more

    Jan Horsman J
    September 17, 2019

    star rating  We stayed in Pinder cabin and had a lovely stay, the cabin was spacious and comfortable, nice and warm after cold days out. The children loved meeting the animals and... read more

    Tiggywinkle15
    November 5, 2019

    star rating  On arriving at Hoe Grange in a downpour, we doubted if we’d made the right decision to go glamping, but after the warm welcome from David and a quick tour,... read more

    karenmD4738KD
    June 25, 2019
  • star rating  We've just returned from our second visit to Hoe Grange. The suggested riding routes with stunning scenery were enjoyed by my daughter and I while the menfolk were delighted with... read more

    Jdrichie12
    July 11, 2019

    star rating  For the second year running, we have had a great family holiday at Hoe Grange. We had one cabin for the week, for two sisters and our elderly wheelchair-using... read more

    EJYork2013
    June 25, 2019

    star rating  Felicity and David made us feel very welcome right from our booking. The pods are well equipped and spotlessly clean. The area is very peaceful with great views and we... read more

    Adventurer_12121
    January 30, 2020
  • star rating  What can I say?
    Absolutely superb!
    We have just returned from a family weekend staying in Daisybank cabin and the Skylark pod.
    It was our first trip away with my... read more

    Wheelieuser
    June 13, 2019

    star rating  Arrived and was shown to our pod, fantastic location and the pod was very good indeed plus we had home made bread and milk and tea and coffee. A... read more

    mickvfr
    July 28, 2019

    star rating  We have just returned from a short stay in one of the pods on site at Hoe Grange Holidays. We couldn’t recommend them enough. The pod has everything you could... read more

    Catboy86
    August 17, 2019
  • star rating  Second visit to the accessible holiday cabins at Hoe Grange. David and Felicity were as helpful and friendly as ever. We had a welcome pack of freshly baked bread, butter,... read more

    Charlotte M
    August 7, 2019

    star rating  We spent four nights at Hoe Grange and had a lovely time. The location is fantastic and right next to the High Peak Trail. The cabin was very clean and... read more

    Big_Al_0000
    July 16, 2019

    star rating  We love this place. Very wheelchair friendly, really well equipped and comfortable, with easy access by car to lots of places of interest particularly Crich Tramway Village, Chatsworth, Bakewell and... read more

    David H
    October 25, 2019
  • star rating  We had a lovely time staying in one of the incredibly well equipped pods. I bought my pony along and we had some great rides on the high peak trail.... read more

    plopster1
    June 7, 2019

    star rating  Lovely place to holiday near to interesting locations and easy access to the High Peak trail and Carsington Water. Part of a working farm with fresh produce to enjoy during... read more

    Angie B
    August 3, 2019

    star rating  Recently spent a week in "Pinder" and had a lovely time. The location is stunning - the site is nestled in a beautiful valley on the edge of the Peaks... read more

    Peachey167
    July 16, 2019
  • star rating  Myself and my sister travelled to Costa Rica and Panama via Viva Holidays Ltd. The holiday was exceptional and one to be treasured forever. Andrew at Viva Holidays... read more

    Paula C
    July 4, 2019

    star rating  It's been three years since we last visited but once we arrived it certainly didn't feel like it!
    We stayed in Hipley again which had had a refurbished wet... read more

    ElizabethA717
    September 21, 2019

    star rating  Loved every minute of our stay, and so did the family and friends that came to stay. Excellent facilities in our cosy Hipley log cabin. By far the best... read more

    krimpenijssel
    October 25, 2019
  • star rating  We stayed in the Skylark pod last October (2018) and had a lovely time. There was homemade, rustic goods (bread, biscuits etc) when we arrived. Felicity and David who run... read more

    KBarry
    September 15, 2019

    star rating  What a lovely weekend away! We stayed in the lovely gypsy caravan, which was a wonderful and really unique experience. We took along our two horses, who also had a... read more

    rachelthomas2015
    June 18, 2019

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