The Dower House

Review

Well placed for visits to Chatsworth House, John and Marsha Biggin's 'country house B&B' is a Grade II listed building of Elizabethan origins. Recent comments: 'A most enjoyable stay; bedrooms are generously proportioned and beautifully warm.' 'A home from home. Everything is smashing.' One room has window seats facing the main street, another a stone fireplace and views through mullioned windows of the 'lovely walled garden', which has a private gate to the churchyard. One room has an en suite shower room, the others have a spacious bathroom (one is along a corridor: dressing gowns can be provided). The guests' sitting room has 'squashy' sofas, 'lots of pictures', and an honesty bar. In the 'elegant' dining hall (with original beams, sash windows, part stone floor, wood fire, fresh flowers), breakfast includes home-made muesli, fruit, wholemeal and granary bread from the local baker, dry-cured bacon, 'sausages from our award-winning farm butcher' and preserves from Chatsworth's farm shop. 'Delicious, particularly the local oatcake cushioning perfectly poached eggs.' The driveway's entrance is 'rather narrow: be careful if you have a large car'. The 'cheerful' Bowling Green pub in the village serves 'generous, reasonable' food. Mr Biggin will advise on local walks and activities. More reports, please.