Stepping Stones

About this property

Stepping Stones is an eco-friendly chalet in Uppermill, sleeping six across two bedrooms plus a sofa bed, perched in woodland overlooking the canal and the River Tame. This self-catering accommodation features open-plan living with a wood burner, private decking, and a shared BBQ area with a chiminea. The seeded roof blends into the natural surroundings, while large sliding doors create a treetop living feel. Walk two minutes to Uppermill's vibrant high street with artisan eateries and independent shops, or stroll to Dovestone Reservoir. This holiday cottage near the Peak District suits families looking for countryside comfort, with Saddleworth villages and Manchester within easy reach.

Stepping Stones occupies a quiet woodland position overlooking the canal, though Uppermill's centre is only a couple of minutes on foot. The chalet gets its name from those stepping stones you can see from your deck - they cross the River Tame and link you to the canal towpath for walks in either direction. Sleeping six across two bedrooms (one double, one twin) plus a sofa bed in the living area, this eco-friendly chalet was built with the surrounding landscape in mind. Those large sliding doors open onto your private deck and genuinely make you feel like you're living among the treetops. The wood burner keeps things cosy when it's cold outside (a starter pack of logs, kindling, and lighters included), and the seeded roof grows into the hillside providing a unique touch.

Uppermill is the main village in Saddleworth - a cluster of former mill villages in the Pennine hills that historically belonged to Yorkshire but now find themselves in Greater Manchester (locals still argue about this). The high street gets busy at weekends with independent shops, artisan cafes, and a good mix of old-school pubs and newer bars. Kobe does brilliant coffee and their brunches are huge, while Weaver and Wilde roasts coffee locally and serves it with milk from Saddleworth dairy herds. Grandpa Greene's ice cream has been made with double cream from Pedigree Friesian cows since 1920 - there's a parlour by the canal in Diggle and another in Uppermill park. Worth trying at least once. The Old Bell Inn, over in Delph, holds a Guinness World Record for its gin emporium, which stocks 1,559 different gins. The Huddersfield Narrow Canal runs through Uppermill and takes you on towpath walks through all the surrounding villages without getting on roads. Saddleworth Museum sits in a converted mill and tells the story of textiles and water power that shaped this valley.

The Peak District and Saddleworth Moor are right on your doorstep. Dovestone Reservoir is walking distance away with a circular 4km route that works for most abilities - the views across moorland and water are stunning. You'll spot Indian's Head rock formation on the skyline if you squint and use your imagination. The rspb manages the area as a sanctuary so birdwatchers come from miles around, and mountain hares live up on the moor. The Pots and Pans walk climbs above Uppermill to a war memorial that does actually look like a pot and pan when you see it. The Pennine Way passes just three miles away if you're into serious long-distance walking. Other Saddleworth villages are worth exploring - Dobcross with The Swan Inn , Delph with its gin palace, and Diggle strung along the canal. The area hosts various events, including Whit Friday Brass Band Contest and Saddleworth Rushcart events. Manchester is only a 35-minute drive away when you crave proper city amenities, museums, shopping, or restaurants. Staying at Stepping Stones gives you countryside walking, moorland hiking, village pubs, independent shops, and city access all from one base.

When booked with neighbouring Tree Tops the chalets can sleep up to 12 guests.

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Accommodation Comprises: Eco-friendly woodland chalet for 6 with treetop living and canal views.

Open Plan Living Space: Light-filled room with large sliding doors opening to your private decking. The wood-burning stove (starter pack of kindling, lighters, and logs provided) creates cosy warmth. Large, comfortable sofa, armchair, and Freeview TV connected to the internet. The sofa converts to a bed, providing flexible sleeping for up to six guests

Dining Area: Table seating six for eating together when you choose to cook at home

Kitchen: Fully equipped with dishwasher, fridge/freezer, cooker, hob, kettle, and coffee maker. Complimentary coffee and teabags provided

Double Bedroom: Good-sized room with a double bed and storage

Twin Bedroom: Two single beds with a night stand between them

Bathroom: Self-contained with a walk-in shower, a heated towel rail, a WC, and a basin. Complimentary shampoo, shower gel, and soap are provided

Outside

Your secure private decking area looks out over the woodland and canal with views to those famous stepping stones crossing the River Tame. The shared outside dining space includes a BBQ and a chiminea for summer evenings when both chalets want to socialise. The eco-friendly design features a seeded roof to ensure the chalet blends into its natural surroundings. Private parking for two cars with an electric vehicle charging hook-up available. Level wheelchair access from parking spaces.

Additional Information

Free WiFi throughout. A welcome bottle of Prosecco, towels, and bedding all included. Travel cots and highchairs available on request. Laundry facilities and secure bike storage provided. Well behaved dogs welcome.