DOVEDALE SHEEP DOG TRIALS

There are a wide variety of tourist attractions near our bed and breakfast.
Alton Towers is the closest, just one mile away. But if an action packed day of thrills is not your thing there are plenty of other ways to spend your time.

Last week we took a well earned afternoon off and went to the 57th Annual Dovedale Sheep Dog Trials near Ilam in the Derbyshire Peak District National Park.
To some this may seem an odd way to spend an afternoon off - but not to us!
We don't own a sheepdog or any sheep. So I hear you ask what is the attraction?
Answer - an afternoon of TOTAL relaxation!

The first day of the trials is an afternoon for local competitors, there are three classes.
Nursery - for competitors and dogs that are new to sheep dog trials
Novice - for competitors and dogs with with some experience
Open - for competitors and dogs with experience.
The second day of the trials is open to competitors from outside the area.

We went along on the first day of the trials. The competitors and their dogs are amazing and a joy to watch.

If you plan to visit the area next August and are looking to do something totally different to do the 2010 trials will be held on 17 & 18 August.

RAMBLERS RETREAT

The Ramblers Retreat is located in Dimmingsdale about half a mile away from us and Alton Towers. They are open during the day and serve all sorts of yummy things - ice creams, coffee, fantastic cake (we can recommend this!) and meals. You can sit inside or if it's fine weather they have a lovely garden with plenty of seating. See http://www.ramblersretreat.co.uk/ for more information.

Dimmingsdale is in a valley next to the river Churnet. There is an old railway line nearby to walk along and also woodland walks. It is a very peaceful area to take a break. A great place to be on a warm day as the trees give plenty of shade.

If you are arriving to stay at our bed & breakfast and get into Alton earlier than expected you might like to visit the Ramblers Retreat they are in Red Road, Alton. Take care - Red Road is a narrow windy lane with no footpaths. Alternatively if your heading home why rush? A walk followed by coffee and cake will set you up for your journey.

AUTUMN BREAK - SCAREFEST

LOOKING FOR A SHORT BREAK THIS AUTUMN?

Alton Towers have 'Scarefest ' at the Theme Park from 17th October until 1st November 20009.

Scarefest is a Halloween celebration that has taken place at the park the last couple of years and has proved to be a big hit with visitors.

There is something to entertain visitors or all ages. There's lots of fun for little ones and plenty of chills and frights for those who dare! Plus the Theme Park rides are open until 9pm. Pumpkin ratings are given for each Halloween attraction so that you can decide what is suitable for your party. Take a look at the Alton Towers website www.altontowers.com/events/halloween-scarefest/.com for more information about Scarefest.

Of course after all those frights you'll need to lie down and rest! Telephone us 01538 703273 or e-mail enquiries@the-malthouse.com to check our bed and breakfast availability.

Our accommodation is just one mile from Alton Towers, quick to get to after a busy day or scary evening!

ALTON TOWERS - Parent & Toddler Special Offer

Do you have a toddler to entertain? Why not spend a day or two at Alton Towers Theme Park?

New for 2009 is Cloud Cuckooland an area with new attractions and plenty of old favorites to keep little ones busy.

At the moment Alton Towers are running a special 'Parent & Toddler Offer'. This offer admits one adult and one child aged under 4 into Alton Towers Theme Park on selected mid-week dates (see website for details) for just £12. The voucher also gives you free parking (usually £5 per day) and a free hot drink.

To take advantage of this offer you need to submit your name, address etc and print a voucher from the Alton Towers website. www.altontowers.com/special-offers/parent-and-toddler-voucher/

When you visit the theme park simply hand the voucher into the cashier.

Our accommodation is one mile away from Alton Towers and is a perfect place to stay while visiting the theme park. To check availability and prices please get in touch by e-mail or telephone.