Orchard Farm, a centuries-old farmhouse in the Staffordshire Peak District, has been converted by Hertfordshire Scouts and Guides as an ideal base from which to explore the Derbyshire Dales. It will sleep up to 60 people and is situated half way between Ashbourne and Leek. The Farm boasts easy trails for walking or, for something more adventurous, it is a short drive into the White Peaks or, if you’re feeling really adventurous, the challenges of the Dark Peaks are also within driving distance.  For climbers the Roaches are about half-hour drive away; so if you have been brought up on climbing walls then this is the ideal place to try the real thing. If you’d like to try your hand at water activities such as raft building, sailing or canoeing Carsington water is approximately 12 miles away and have qualified instructions at the centre.   

Mountain bikes can be hired 10 minutes away at Waterhouses, which is the start of the nine mile Manifold Track. For some off-site fun and relaxation (if that’s the right word) Alton Towers is only 20 minutes away, and the culture of Chatsworth House is also nearby.  

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