The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale, Biddulph (Staffordshire) ➤ Reviews, Rooms & Prices 2026

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The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale Biddulph Exterior photo

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Key details

About the Hotel

Dovedale, Biddulph (Staffordshire), United Kingdom, DE6 2AY

Close to Dovedale Stepping Stones

Very good

7.1

7.6

/10

4.7

4.2

Loved by The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale guests

Lovely views
Spacious rooms
Cute staff
Delicious meals
Excellent location

"The hotel is in a fantastic location surrounded by hills and just a short walk from Dovedale and the famous Stepping Stones."

Smiths_of_Gedling from United Kingdom

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"Scenery is absolutely divine."

ABC from United Kingdom

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"The location was lovely and so was the hotel itself beautiful view from our room and food was very good."

Mark

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Location

The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel is located in the Dovedale Valley, between the villages of Ilam and Thorpe in Derbyshire. The hotel allows direct access to the famous Dovedale Stepping Stones from its grounds. Its proximity to major road links and Ashbourne makes it a practical base for exploring the Peak District National Park.

Dining

The Haddon Restaurant, awarded 2 AA Rosettes, serves a selection of dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. With breathtaking views of the Dovedale Valley, guests can enjoy fine dining in a historic setting. The Dovedale Bar provides a more casual atmosphere, offering light meals, cream teas, and a selection of local ales.

Rooms

The hotel features 38 well-appointed ensuite bedrooms, many of which offer views of the surrounding natural beauty and gardens. Room types range from Classic and Family rooms to Superior options, with some rooms featuring spa baths and four-poster beds. Each room is individually decorated, ensuring a distinctive stay in the historic building.

Events and Weddings

The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel is equipped to host various events, with five meeting rooms capable of accommodating up to 130 guests. The hotel also offers an outdoor pavilion for ceremonies, enhancing the scenic backdrop for weddings. Customers can expect professional assistance in planning and executing personalized events.

Activities

Guests can enjoy a variety of activities near the hotel, including access to walking trails in the Peak District. Local attractions such as Alton Towers and Carsington Water are within a short drive. Fishing enthusiasts can engage in fishing on a three-mile stretch of the River Dove with passes available at reception.

Highlights

Location: Dovedale Valley, between Ilam and Thorpe

Dining: Haddon Restaurant with 2 AA Rosettes

Rooms: 38 well-appointed ensuite bedrooms

Events: Five meeting rooms for up to 130 guests

Activities: Access to walking trails and fishing

“Set within the Peak District National Park, this 17th-century country house grants direct access to the Dovedale Stepping Stones and private fishing on the River Dove. The AA 2 Rosette awarded dining here is a highlight, and the property's history as a literary guesthouse adds to its charm; however, updates are needed. A stay here offers both natural beauty and historical significance.”

Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

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Highlights from guests

DiningBreakfast Brilliance

Breakfast was a real treat, not your standard buffet. Everything was top quality, and the bacon was the best I've ever had!

Oliver from England

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Guest ParkingParking Peace

There was plenty of free parking available. I didn't have to worry about finding a spot, even when returning late.

Ingrid from Sweden

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Room FeaturesDovedale Views

The room was big, comfortable, and clean. The views were breathtaking! Overlooking Dovedale, an amazing scene to wake up to.

Kenji from Japan

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Business FacilitiesSeamless Meeting

The meeting room had everything ready and was easy to use. Lunch in the bar offered a refreshing change of pace.

Rajesh from India

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Select your room type

The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Superior King Room View

2 persons

270 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Superior King or Twin Room View

2 persons

325 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Classic Double Room

2 persons

220 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Twin Room Garden View

2 persons

270 sq. feet

2 Single beds

Garden view

Shower

Heating

room details

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Facilities

The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

Non-smoking property
Free internet access
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
Pets allowed
Wheelchair access

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Room service
Laundry

Dining

Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area

Children

Cots

Room features

In-room safe
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Hair dryer
Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel offers two exquisite dining experiences where the charm of British cuisine meets stunning garden views. Guests can indulge in traditional fare at The Haddon Restaurant or unwind with a casual meal at the Dovedale Lounge and Bar, each providing a unique atmosphere for savoring thoughtfully prepared dishes.

The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale Biddulph Restaurant photo

The Haddon Restaurant

British

Ambiance

Traditional dining with picturesque garden views, creating a serene and elegant atmosphere.

Key Offerings

Indulge in a variety of British dishes, with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Ideal for a fine dining experience at breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this restaurant boasts a 2 AA Rosette award for culinary excellence.

Reservation

Recommended

Breakfast: Mon-Sun 08:00 - 10:00, Dinner: Mon-Sun 18:30 - 21:00

Dovedale Lounge and Bar

British, Casual Dining

Ambiance

A warm and inviting lounge setting, perfect for relaxation and socializing, open throughout the day.

Key Offerings

Enjoy a selection of British comfort foods, brunch specials, and a delightful range of beverages, including craft cocktails. A relaxed atmosphere for leisurely meals or casual gatherings.

Reservation

Not needed

All-day dining from 07:00 to 23:00, serving breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner.

The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale Location

Dovedale, Biddulph (Staffordshire), United Kingdom, DE6 2AY

Map view

Dovedale, Biddulph (Staffordshire), United Kingdom, DE6 2AY

City landmarks

Landmark

Dovedale

4600 ft

Park

Ilam Park

1.2 mi

Landmark

Dovedale Stepping Stones

4600 ft

Landmark

Thorpe Cloud

1.0 mi

Church

Church of the Holy Cross

5200 ft

Landmark

Bunster Hill

2400 ft

Landmark

Dovedale Castle

2500 ft

Landmark

Dovedale Ravine

2900 ft

Landmark

Twelve Apostles

3000 ft

Landmark

Ilam Cross

3000 ft

Landmark

Wolfscote Dale

3100 ft

Landmark

Church of St Leonard

4500 ft

Landmark

Lover's Leap

3300 ft

Landmark

Dovedale National Nature Reserve

4200 ft

Landmark

Church of St Bartholomew

1.0 mi

Landmark

Jacob's Ladder

4500 ft

Landmark

The Parish of St.Leonard Thorpe

4500 ft

Landmark

Tissington Spires

4600 ft

Landmark

Dovedale Church

4600 ft

Landmark

Tissington Hall

2.1 mi

Landmark

Saxon Cross

5100 ft

Landmark

Ilam Hall

1.2 mi

Landmark

Ilam Park Dovedale & the White Peak

1.2 mi

Landmark

Reynards Cave

1.1 mi

Landmark

St Bartholomew's Blore Ray

1.0 mi

Landmark

Casterne Hall

1.6 mi

Landmark

Church of St Edmund

1.9 mi

Landmark

St Mary's Church

2.2 mi

Nearby

Ashbourne DE6 2AZ

Ilam Park Dovedale & the White Peak

3600 ft

Restaurants

Haddon Restaurant

3300 ft

Dovedale The Izaak Walton Hotel

Explore Biddulph (Staffordshire)

Explore Dovedale

Dovedale

17 minutes' walk

Dovedale features breathtaking limestone valleys and stunning scenery, ideal for nature enthusiasts and picnics.

Dovedale Stepping Stones

17 minutes' walk

The iconic stepping stones provide a picturesque view across the river, perfect for photography and family outings.

Ilam Park

25 minutes' walk

Ilam Park offers lovely walks and parkland, with scenic views perfect for relaxation and enjoying the outdoors.

Thorpe Cloud

20 minutes' walk

Thorpe Cloud is a popular walking destination, boasting stunning views from the summit that are worth the trek.

Hiking Trails

17 minutes' walk

Hiking in Dovedale offers various trails with stunning views. Equipment rentals available in nearby locations.

Wellness Retreats

1.0 km

Local wellness centers provide yoga and meditation sessions that promote relaxation and rejuvenation.

Haddon Restaurant

12 minutes' walk

Haddon offers local dishes with fresh ingredients in a cozy atmosphere. Reservations recommended for dinner.

The Old Dog Inn

5-minute drive

A traditional pub with hearty English meals and a warm atmosphere, including options for vegetarians.

The Royal Oak

1.5 km

A lively pub featuring local live music and quiz nights. Great for enjoying an evening with friends.

Ilam Theatre

3.0 km

Hosts regular shows and events for all ages, making it a cultural hub for families and couples alike.

Getting around

City Centre

Biddulph (Staffordshire)41 min · 16.7 mi

Airports

East Midlands (EMA)83 min · 34.3 mi

Manchester (MAN)96 min · 39.4 mi

Bus

Bus stop21 min · 8.7 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-22:00

Check-out

from 07:00-11:00

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in for free.

Breakfast

The hotel The Izaak Walton Country House - Dovedale serves a full breakfast for free.

Children & extra beds

Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Year renovated:

2012

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel is frequently praised for its stunning location, especially its proximity to Dovedale and the convenient footpath to the Dovedale stepping stones and Ilam Village. Guests often enjoy the spacious and comfortable rooms, with some offering amazing views of the Peaks. The dining experience also receives positive attention for tasty and well-presented food; however, a few guests have noted that the breakfast fruit options were limited.

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Review score

Based on 632 verified reviews

7.3/10

Very good

69%

Recommend

Pros

Good location

Delicious breakfast

Spacious room

Cons

Overpriced meals

Tired decor

Poor water pressure

Justin from Canada

Single

classic double room

3 nights in August 2025

Reviewed:September 09, 2025

9.0/10

amazing stay

excellent interiorgroundsannoyed staff

the hotel interior felt excellent and it had comfort. the cleanliness of the rooms were good also. there was ample parking and grounds outside.

one staff seemed annoyed whenever i ordered beer. i asked for a toothbrush and he sighed loudly. he reluctantly helped me anyway.

Location

9/10

location provides a footpath from the back to the dovedale stepping stones. another footpath goes to ilam village. short walks are very convenient instead of driving and the parking is not cheap.

Facilities

8/10

the hotel has its own footpath from the back of the hotel. it goes down to the dovedale stepping stones and to ilam village. there is ample parking and grounds outside too.

Rooms

10/10

the room included heavy luxury curtains that keep the light out. there were large thick bathroom towels. the wifi worked well. the peaks from the room look amazing.

Service

9/10

the check-in and check-out went smoothly. the staff was super friendly. they did a great job.

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Questions of the users

About The Izaak Walton Country House Hotel - Dovedale

Are pets allowed to stay at the hotel?

15 December 2024

Yes, the hotel has designated dog-friendly rooms in the courtyard area. It's best to contact the hotel in advance to confirm availability for your pet-friendly stay.

Is it possible to access Dovedale directly from the hotel for walking?

22 October 2024

Absolutely! The footpath leading to Dovedale is conveniently located right at the end of the hotel's grounds, allowing easy access without needing to drive.

Are ground floor twin rooms available for guests?

05 January 2025

Yes, ground floor twin rooms are available, making it easier for those who prefer or require accessibility.

Can the hotel accommodate two small dogs in the rooms?

14 March 2025

Yes, the hotel can accommodate two small dogs in the dog-friendly courtyard rooms, but it's recommended to check availability prior to booking.

Is there a vegan breakfast option available for guests?

10 November 2024

Yes, the hotel offers vegan breakfast options to cater to diverse dietary preferences.

Is room service available, especially considering the need for social distancing?

18 April 2025

Yes, room service is available with a small tray charge. The hotel has implemented safety measures for a comfortable dining experience in your room.

What safety measures are in place regarding health and hygiene for guests?

25 June 2025

The hotel adheres to strict health and safety guidelines, including thorough cleaning protocols and social distancing measures to ensure guest safety.

Is there a bar on-site for guests to enjoy drinks?

30 September 2024

Yes, the hotel features a bar where guests can enjoy a variety of beverages in a cozy atmosphere.

What dining options does the hotel have for special occasions?

27 February 2025

The Haddon Restaurant, a 2 AA Rosette establishment, offers fine dining with options for special occasions and private functions.

How far is the hotel from notable attractions like Alton Towers?

21 August 2024

The hotel is approximately 32 kilometers from Alton Towers, making it a convenient base for visiting this popular theme park.