Holiday Village



Relaxing countryside break in Darwin Forest holiday park
Explore the Holiday Village
Peak District
Cottages
Choose from 17 luxury stone-built cottages sleeping from 4 to 127 guests.
Perfect for Groups and
Peak Adventures
From yoga retreats to company away days, Darwin Lake is designed for large or small groups looking to explore.
Celebrate by
the Lake
Our exclusive lakeside venue provides a truly unique setting for weddings, private parties and corporate events.
Relaxing countryside break in Darwin Forest holiday park
Book Our Peak Cottage Now
Welcome to Darwin Lake
Discover Darwin Lake Holiday Village and its Peak District Cottages
Nestled within private woodland and meadows, Darwin Lake is a 4-star lakeside holiday village and event venue on the edge of the Peak District National Park. With beautifully appointed stone cottages, a tranquil three-acre lake and versatile indoor and outdoor spaces, it’s the perfect setting for group getaways, weddings, and adventure breaks all year round.
Just minutes from Matlock and Chatsworth House, Darwin Lake combines the beauty of nature with modern comfort. Whether you’re planning a family gathering, corporate retreat or celebration by the water, our village offers everything you need in one place.
Your Peak District Holiday, Wedding, or Event
Why Choose Us
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Stunning Location
Set within 20 acres of woodland, meadows, and our private lake — the perfect Peak District escape.
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4-Star Luxury Cottages:
17 beautifully designed self-catering cottages for families, groups, and couples.
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Exclusive Wedding & Event Venue
Celebrate your special day or host corporate events in our lakeside hall and outdoor spaces.
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Adventure on Your Doorstep
Walking trails, cycling routes, and Peak Adventure days for all ages and interests.
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Tailored Experiences
From hot tubs and group activities to bespoke event planning — we cater to your unique needs.
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Accessible Peak District Base
Explore charming local villages, attractions, and the best of Derbyshire countryside.
Our 4 Star Peak District Cottages
Featured Cottages
The Haven - Winster
- Coffee and Tea
- Smart TV
- Excellent signal
This luxurious new suite is perfect for dining, Corporate meetings, parties, gaming nights or that special family.
The Haven - Winster
- Coffee and Tea
- Smart TV
- Excellent signal
This luxurious new suite is perfect for dining, Corporate meetings, parties, gaming nights or that special family.
The Haven - Winster
- Coffee and Tea
- Smart TV
- Excellent signal
This luxurious new suite is perfect for dining, Corporate meetings, parties, gaming nights or that special family.
The Haven - Winster
- Coffee and Tea
- Smart TV
- Excellent signal
This luxurious new suite is perfect for dining, Corporate meetings, parties, gaming nights or that special family.
Discover our Holiday Village Cottages
Now with newly updated cottages and event venue for weddings and group activities, also check out our Peak Adventure days. Darwin Lake and its Peak District Cottages provide the perfect base for a relaxing countryside break in Darwin Forest holiday park. Our charming Holiday Village plays host to 17 beautiful, stone-built self-catering holiday cottages.






Local attractions and experiences
Now with newly updated cottages and event venue for weddings and group activities, also check out our Peak Adventure days. Darwin Lake and its Peak District Cottages provide the perfect base for a relaxing countryside break in Darwin Forest holiday park. Our charming Holiday Village plays host to 17 beautiful, stone-built self-catering holiday cottages.
Discover our Holiday Village Cottages
Now with newly updated cottages and event venue for weddings and group activities, also check out our Peak Adventure days. Darwin Lake and its Peak District Cottages provide the perfect base for a relaxing countryside break in Darwin Forest holiday park. Our charming Holiday Village plays host to 17 beautiful, stone-built self-catering holiday cottages.



What the customer says about us
Customer Reviews
GOOD Based on 248 reviews Posted on Carrie FoggittTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Just had a great stay in Darwin Lake Holiday Village - we were ten in two houses, close to the lake. Delightfully peaceful spot, the lake and woodland walks around it were beautiful in sun and rain, and each house very comfortable and well equipped. The hosts were very helpful and accommodating to make sure our needs were met during the stay. Good value and highly recommended.Posted on S BTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our group of 30 people had an absolutely amazing stay at Darwin Lake Holiday Village in August this year. The staff, and in particular the catering staff, went out of their way (with their capacity, of course) to accommodate our various needs and requirements - big shout-out to Soli, Raz, Sonia, Stacy, Angel and Georgia! - and the secluded setting made it the perfect spot for a bit of time away from the daily hustle. If you are looking for comfortable cottage accommodation for either a workshop sort of event or for a family/friends gathering (anniversary/wedding, etc), I can highly recommend! We'll be sure to return next year.Posted on JodieTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Stayed here for my partners parents wedding happening on the 20/09/25. The cottages were very comfortable, clean and tidy to a high standard. It was all a delight throughout the weekend, really enjoyed the service from the bar staff. Stacey made us feel very welcoming and made sure to check up on us to ensure we had everything we needed, very lovely girl!Posted on Ruxshin BajinaTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We recently held a youth group weekend for over 50 people at Darwin Lake and had a fantastic experience. The venue is beautiful, the accommodation was spotless, and really well set up for groups. What made the biggest difference though was the team. From the very beginning, they went above and beyond, accommodating last minute changes, adjusting menus, helping with late checkouts, and supporting us during unexpected challenges. Our timetable across the weekend ran so smoothly thanks to all the work the team did in the background to support us. We’ve also had so much positive feedback from our group on the food, activities, and overall service. Everything was handled with such care, flexibility, and professionalism. Special thanks to Soli, Sonia, Raz and the team for their outstanding support and kindness throughout the weekend. We would highly recommend Darwin Lake to anyone planning a group event, and we’re already looking forward to coming back in the future!Posted on Freyan KhambattaTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I organised a group trip for 55 people, coordinating with Soli and Sonia over the course of a few of months. Cannot praise the team, service and the venue, any more!! So accommodating with our requests regarding accommodation, food, dietary requirements, activities etc and able to answer my questions whenever I needed. Kept in regular contact beforehand and throughout the weekend to make sure everything was going smoothly. The venue includes beautifully decorated cottages around the Lake and is easy to find and access from nearby towns or train stations. Lots of nature walks nearby for those who enjoy the outdoors, and they have partnered with a fabulous activity company who kept our group occupied all day on the Saturday with activities including archery, axe throwing and ziplining across the lake. Thank you Soli, Sonia, Raz & team for your warm hospitality, great food and helpful nature! We 100% want to come back next year with more people!!Posted on Cal KnightTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing venue. Perfect for weddings and conferences. Cottages stand out as modern but charmingly quaint. A lovely lake to boat or fish on. Beautiful part of the peak district and close to local amenities.Posted on Hussam AlmafrajeTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing place, everything was perfect with amazing staff. The catering had the best food and alaways so nice and helpfulPosted on Sg SgTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. wonderful staff, beautiful location, great facilities
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Latest Blogs
Stay up to date with news, tips, and guides from Darwin Lake Holiday Village. From planning your perfect getaway to hosting weddings and special events, our latest articles make every visit easier and more enjoyable.
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