I’ll never forget the drive up to the Peak District last month – me, the missus, and our two little ones crammed into the car with enough snacks to feed a small army. We’d set off from home full of beans, but about halfway there, disaster struck: a rogue sheep decided to play chicken with us on one of those twisty lanes near Buxton. I slammed on the brakes, heart in my mouth, and the kids erupted into giggles while crisps flew everywhere like confetti. “Dad’s a rubbish rally driver!” my youngest declared. Typical family holiday chaos, but we laughed it off and arrived in Longnor village just as the sun dipped behind the hills, buzzing with that proper anticipation of ditching the daily grind.

Pulling up to the place, my first impressions were spot on – this old converted water-powered saw mill has been turned into the cosiest one-bedroom apartment you could wish for. It’s all gorgeous handcrafted woodwork and decor, with high-quality furnishings that make it feel like a proper home from home. Stepping inside, the open-plan living space hit us like a warm hug: unique handmade arched windows letting in that soft Peak District light, a fitted wooden kitchen stocked with everything for knocking up a family feast, and a sofa begging us to flop down in front of the telly. The spacious bathroom’s a treat too – bath and separate shower, perfect for a long soak after a day out, though with kids, it’s more splash-fest than spa day.

We wasted no time settling in for a relaxed family break, embracing that simple cottage life vibe. Mornings kicked off with brekkie at the dining table – bacon butties and fresh eggs from the local farm shop – before short strolls around Longnor. The village green’s just a hop away, ideal for the little ones to burn off energy chasing each other, while we nattered with dog walkers over mugs of tea from the café. Afternoons meant gentle rambles along the nearby lanes, spotting wildflowers and the odd curious cow peering over a wall. One day we wandered to the River Dove, no more than a couple of miles off, dipping toes in the cool water and picnicking on cheese sarnies – pure bliss, with the kids building pebble dams like mini engineers.

Evenings were the best bit: cooking up pasta in that brilliant kitchen, then piling on the sofa for a Disney film, feet up and not a care in the world. There was the odd bit of cottage chaos – like when the toddler smeared jam on the cushions or we realised we’d forgotten the board games – but it just added to the fun. Made me pause one quiet moment, staring out those arched windows at the misty peaks, thinking how these simple pleasures recharge the soul better than any fancy jaunt. No need for big adventures; just family, laughs, and a cracking cuppa.

By the end of our stay, we were gutted to pack up, but already plotting a return. If you’re after that easygoing Peak District escape with the fam, this spot nails it – proper relaxed magic.