About us .. our story

Wooley Pingle – A Luxury Shepherd’s Hut in the Derbyshire Peak District

Hello! We’re Stephen and Diane, proud owners of Wooley Pingle – a beautifully handcrafted luxury Shepherd’s Hut, nestled on a peaceful hillside behind our cottage in the charming village of Bonsall, Derbyshire.

If you’re searching for a cosy, unique escape on the edge of the Peak District National Park, you’re in the right place.

Our Story

For many years, we moved around the UK for work and spent family holidays touring Europe in our caravan. We always preferred the flexibility and home comforts of this lifestyle over hotel stays.

As keen walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers, we dreamed of creating a holiday space that reflected our passions — somewhere to relax, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the simple pleasures of countryside living.

Finding Home in Bonsall

In 2015, with our children starting their own lives, we took a leap and bought a rundown cottage in Bonsall, a historic lead mining village nestled along the Limestone Way and Peak District Boundary Walk.

Renovating the cottage was a huge challenge. But despite peeling plaster, damp walls, and countless DIY hurdles, we quickly fell in love with the landscape, the wildlife, and the quiet beauty of the village. We often said it felt like we were on holiday every day.

Eight years later, our once-tired cottage is now a warm and welcoming home, and we feel incredibly lucky to live here.

Creating Wooley Pingle – A Luxury Shepherd’s Hut Retreat

Our love for this special place inspired us to share it with others. We envisioned a Shepherd’s Hut in the Peak District – a comfortable, stylish retreat for couples seeking peace, nature, and a bit of adventure.

We purchased the hillside plot behind our cottage, once known as “Wooley Pingle” on historic maps, and began work in Spring 2021. With the new space, we added off-road parking, landscaped a flower and vegetable garden, and began building the hut — not delivered, but built entirely on site.

Handcrafted With Love

Transporting a ready-made hut up our hillside proved impossible, and it turned out to be a blessing. Building the hut ourselves allowed us to tailor every detail, from layout to finishes.

We designed Wooley Pingle as the kind of place we would love to stay:

• A sumptuous bed for restful sleep
• A luxury powerful shower room – loads of hit water.
• Thoughtful touches throughout – a real home from home.
• Outdoor space for star-gazing, watching and listening to the birds, reading or enjoying a glass of wine or a favoured tipple.

This is more than accommodation – it’s an experience.

Why “Wooley Pingle”?

The name comes from old maps of the area, where our newly acquired field was once called “Wooley Pingle.” We loved the name’s charm and historical link to the land – and knew it was perfect for our retreat.

Your Stay at Wooley Pingle

We opened Wooley Pingle to guests in Summer 2023, and we’re thrilled to welcome visitors from near and far.

Whether you’re looking for:

• A romantic break for two, perhaps celebrating a birthday, anniversary, honeymoon or a proposal (we can make it special!)
• A base for walking, cycling or exploring the Derbyshire Dales
• A solo traveller seeking peace and solitude
• Or simply a chance to slow down and unwind in nature

…you’ll find a warm welcome, beautiful surroundings, and everything you need for a memorable holiday.