Wildlife on your doorstep
Meet the Animals at Hollydale Cottages in the Peak District
Animals of Hollydale
Time at Hollydale is not just about the cottage. It is the company. Our small herd of Highland cows, curious alpacas, a little troop of wallabies, and our friendly donkeys live on site and they love a calm hello. You can watch them from your terrace, wander past the paddocks on your coffee walk, or join us for a gentle feed . We keep things peaceful and respectful for the animals and for you.
Quick facts
- Location Peak District countryside near walking trails and village pubs
- Suitable for Families couples and friends
- What to bring Wellies in winter and a camera
- Feeding Only with our approved snacks during set times
Meet the herd
Highland Cows
Shaggy coats. Big personalities. Our Highlands are calm and patient creatures who enjoy a slow graze and a gentle scratch on the neck. You can often spot them posing against a pink sunset. They are photogenic and they know it.
Look for
Lunchtime naps. Forelock fringes. Soft rumbles when they are content.
Alpacas
Curious. Chatty. Endlessly entertaining. Our alpacas like to follow along the fence when guests stroll by. They hum to each other and love a tidy paddock. You might catch them sunbathing in a neat row. Prince, Ricket, Doodles, Eric and Snickers are the most friendly that almost demand cuddles and kisses, they’re that friendly and affectionate , in fact, if you call Prince’s name , he will come bounding from the top of the field, excited to meet you.
Look for
Prince, loves to have a walk alongside our guests.
Ricket, who we rescued, is now able to walk much better since arriving after being carefully looked after with vital minerals and vitamins. He’s now happily amongst his fellow alpacas loving life and even able to gain some speed now playing.
Wallabies
A little piece of Australia in the Peaks. They are gentle and shy, most active at dawn and dusk. Watch quietly and you may see the soft bounce of a joey staying close to mum. They are from Australia, New Zealand and New Guinea
Look for
Careful grooming sessions and neat little paws.
Update March 2026
As Featured on BBC Midlands Today
Hollydale has recently been featured on BBC Midlands Today, sharing a story that means a great deal to everyone here. At the heart of it is the arrival of a beautiful baby wallaby, a tiny joey who has quickly become part of the Hollydale story, alongside daughter Summer who plays such a special role in daily life with the animals.
This moment reflects everything Hollydale stands for. Scott and Jennifer Walker have created more than just a place to stay. They have built something rooted in care, attention, and a genuine love for every animal on site. You see it in the details, and you feel it the moment you arrive.
The story also marks an exciting new chapter. Hollydale Animal Experiences are now open, giving guests the opportunity to step beyond simply visiting and truly connect with the animals. From meeting the wallabies to spending time with alpacas, donkeys, and more, it is a hands on experience designed to be both memorable and meaningful.
There is also something deeper behind it all. Wallabies were once known to roam wild across parts of Staffordshire, particularly around The Roaches. Their presence here today brings a sense of that history back to life, offering a rare connection between past and present.
Miniature Ponies
Our collection of miniature ponies are just the cutest.
Our miniature ponies are always a firm favourite at Hollydale, and it is easy to see why. Small in size but full of personality, they are incredibly gentle, curious, and love meeting new visitors. Whether they are trotting over to say hello or enjoying a quiet moment of attention, they bring a real sense of charm to the experience. Guests, especially families, have the chance to get up close, learn about their care, and spend time with them in a calm and relaxed setting
Donkeys
Warm eyes and the friendliest bray. Our donkeys enjoy a good ear rub and will stand patiently for a brush. They are excellent neighbours for the alpacas and you will often see them sharing the fence line.
Look for
The donkey who likes to rest his head on an alpaca for a moment. It is very sweet.
Peter the Peacock and our chickens
A busy little crew who patrol the grounds and keep us supplied with fresh eggs. Children love to help with the afternoon corn.
Care note
Wash hands after any contact and keep gates clipped behind you.
Family moments to try
- Coffee mug walk past the paddocks
- Golden hour photos with the Highlands in the background
- Quiet five minutes by the wallaby enclosure at dusk
- Little helpers join for chicken corn time
- Winter stargazing from the hot tub while the cows settle for the night
Frequently asked questions
- Can we feed the animals
Yes, during set times with our approved snacks. We will let you know when and how. - Can children join
Yes, with adult supervision at all times. - Are the animals always visible
Most days yes, but they may rest in shelters during heavy rain or heat. - Can we bring our dog
Dogs are welcome in all cottages. Please keep them on a short lead and away from paddocks. - Do you offer private meet and greets
Yes. Ask when you book and we will do our best to arrange a quiet visit.
Two Hour Animal Experience at Hollydale
If you’d like to get even closer to our small herd, we offer a gentle two hour animal experience that guests of all ages can enjoy. It’s a calm, hands-on way to learn more about the animals, meet them safely and spend unrushed time together in the heart of the Peak District.
Prices
- Adults £35.00 per person
- Children (up to age 12) £15.00
Your visit includes food and a hot or cold drink. Hot chocolate with marshmallows is always the favourite.
What’s included
- Guided tour of the paddocks
- Photos with the Highland cows, alpacas, wallabies and donkeys
- A full briefing on each animal, their personalities, breeds and routines
- Safe feeding sessions and plenty of cuddles
- Time to wander our countryside surroundings
- Exclusive use of our state of the art games room to relax and play together afterwards
This experience is designed to be relaxed, informative and memorable. Families love it, and it’s a lovely way to slow down and enjoy the quieter side of Hollydale.
Booking
Send us a message on the form below.
Gift vouchers are available , what a great Christmas present .
Available Weekdays and weekends
About the Location
The hillside market town of Leek, known as “The Queen of the Moorlands” is situated on the western side of The Peaks and is surrounded by lovely Moorland countryside. The town has a charming cobbled market place and there are many examples of fine Victorian architecture influenced by William Morris – a reminder of the town’s prosperity when it was renowned as a silk manufacturing centre. Today Leek offers a wide selection of shops including vast antique emporiums, a good selection of restaurants, a local park and leisure facilities and real ale pubs. Situated close to Three Shires Head, the meeting point of the counties of Cheshire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire, Leek is near to Chatsworth House, Buxton Opera House and Gawsworth Hall, plus Alton Towers is within driving distance.