The Outside-Inn

06/06/2026

We took the opportunity of some sunshine yesterday to re-cut the paths around the field - the grass has loved all the rain recently so it's 2ft high! We leave most of it to grow long all year with just 1 cut in autumn to stop thick tussocks forming.

Behind the lodges is an area of "flower bed" filled last year with plants kindly donated from my friends' gardens. The soil here is really shallow and I was hoping this would put off the grass, nettles, thistles and dock that are well established in the field, but unfortunately not! Despite this it's looking really pretty - the geraniums and alliums I planted last year look great together and I've got 1 little fox glove that'll hopefully get established 😊

31/05/2026

Welcome to Derwent Lodge at The Outside-Inn Wirksworth!

We're often asked about the facilities available in our lodges so I thought I'd do a little walk round video...

As well as super comfy king sized beds (or super-king/twin in Derwent Lodge), with silk-filled duvet and pillows, the lodges have a lovely 2 seater settee, free WiFi, smart TV, Bosch Tassimo coffee machine, DAB radio and dining set for two.

The kitchenette has a fridge with a small freezer section, 2 burner induction hob, microwave, toaster, kettle, mini air fryer and a picnic basket. We provide all plates, cutlery, crockery and cooking utensils - guests frequently tell us how well stocked the lodges are 😊

Yes, there's a bottle opener, tin opener, bread knife and cheese grater!

Each ensuite shower room has Era hair and body wash, conditioner and moisturiser, we provide a few things such as make up remover, a shower cap, vanity kit etc., and a small (but mighty!) hair dryer.

Outside, each lodge has a private patio with seating and BBQ area, designated parking space and all have direct access to our gorgeous view overlooking Wirksworth 🥰

23/05/2026

What a beautiful day to visit Chatsworth House and Gardens! There's so much to explore in these wonderful grounds and so close by - just 13 miles/ 25 minutes drive away.

It's their family festival weekend, so as well as exploring the fabulous grounds and gardens, we also enjoyed some family fun activities, especially the archery, circus skills and Viking re-enactment.

17/05/2026

The beautiful Haddon Hall and Haddon Medieval Park are only about 11 miles/25 minutes away from us...

Haddon Hall is inviting local hotels, guest houses and B&Bs to become part of our guest discount scheme.

The scheme allows accommodation providers to offer guests a discounted general admission visit to Haddon Hall, encouraging them to explore one of Derbyshire’s most historic and beautiful destinations during their stay.

In return, we simply ask participating businesses to help promote Haddon Hall as a place to visit while enjoying the local area.

If you run accommodation nearby and would be interested in joining the scheme, we would be delighted to hear from you. Please contact [email protected] for more information 🙏

16/05/2026

My mood usually dips when it's grey and rainy outside but getting out in the fresh air, enjoying the hound race around, the sounds of nature and looking at the view always makes me feel better.

09/05/2026

🌿 Walking solo in the Peak District? Here are a few simple ways to stay safe and enjoy every moment 💛

There’s nothing quite like heading out on your own into the hills — it can be peaceful, empowering, and a great way to reset. The Peaks are a wonderful place to explore solo, but like anywhere, it’s worth taking a few precautions:

🥾 Plan your route – Stick to well-known paths and let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to be back.

📱 Keep your phone charged – Signal can be patchy, so download maps or routes before you set off.

🌤️ Check the weather – It can change quickly, even on a clear day.

👀 Trust your instincts – If something doesn’t feel right, change your route or head back.

🧍‍♀️ Stay aware of your surroundings – Especially in quieter or more remote areas.

🚗 Park smart – Choose busy, well-used car parks where possible.

🧥 Dress for the conditions – Layers, sturdy footwear, and waterproofs go a long way.

Most of all, enjoy it. The Peak District is a beautiful place to explore, and solo walks can be some of the most rewarding 💫

Stay safe and happy walking 🌄✨

Share this with your friends to keep them safe!

05/05/2026

I love bluebells as they're always in bloom around my birthday. These images were taken at The Coppice, Belper, a lovely little nature reserve where we do a circular walk with Bracken before visiting the shops, all easily accessible from the free car park at the top of the high street.

Other local bluebell walks include Lea Wood located behind Aqueduct Cottage (see previous post) and Shining Cliff Woods, near Ambergate. There's also Longshaw Estate in the Peak District, Stand Wood at Chatsworth and at Kedleston Hall, all about 30 mins from us.
Further info can be found at: https://visitpeakdistrict.com/blog/the-best-places-to-see-bluebells-in-derbyshire-and-the-peak-district

25/04/2026

25/04/2026

Thank you to our recent guests Mike and Wendy for these lovely panoramic shots from Nightingale Lodge.
Great to see you both again, looking forward to next time!

The weather has been fantastic this week with blue skies in the day, fantastic stars at night ✨ and some beautiful sunsets...