We had beautiful weather to look forward to last September, and the holiday near Matlock didnt dissapoint. Bonsall was a small village, so it was easy to find our bed n breakfast, right above a beautiful tea room. There was an outside area to the tea rooms so we could relax with a cake and a coffee before going inside. The management showed us to the door where the two rooms were, and it was up a few stairs, the room was king size, and had the most fantastic spacious en suite bathroom. It was tranquil, a really comfortable room. That evening we took a walk around the village and the street was very unusual with old houses and interesting views. Around the corner we went, and up to a beautiful old church. I took a few photos up there, it was very relaxing. The next day we enjoyed a good cooked breakfast outside, it was so lovely, and felt like we were in France. We set off to Caudwell`s Mill at Rowsley, not many minutes drive. The vegetarian cafe was special, our cream tea was one of the nicest I`ve ever had, and the view outside was beautiful, with a river outside too. the gift shop was large and sold flour, and all sorts. The craft rooms were quite interesting, especially the mosaic artistry. In this neck of the woods we were astounded at the friendliness of everyone we met. Perhaps it was the good weather! Back at the tearooms, it was the same, one of the workers told us about the Cascades house and gardens, just across the road, inspired by Japanese gardens and Buddhist philosophy. They sold beautiful Bonsai trees too. It was refreshing to walk around and listen to the history of the place by the owner and his assistant. Apparrently in the spring there are more waterfalls from Bonsall brook which flows through the gardens. In Bonsall we managed to get a good evening meal on our last night at the Kings Head pub, without booking, a short stroll from Fountains tearooms bnb. It was a good start to our little holiday in the peak district. It wasnt too expensive either.
