Firstly, we stayed at the Birchover, Darley Abbey as we had won a competition for people / families who deserved a break. I won't go into detail about my entry, but we were very grateful to win this very generous offer of a three night break.
Location
The Apartments are located about 2 miles from Derby Centre, the location is very peaceful and there is a large park approx 5 minutes walk away. It is also approx 35 minutes from Alton Towers and we visited the Waterpark there during our stay (this again, was a gift from the Birchover Residences). The Apartments are on a Dual Carriageway which give you great access to all neighbouring areas.
The Apartment
We were lucky enough to stay in a Penthouse Apartment, the Apartments are broken down into blocks with their own entrance. They are serviced by a lift to assist with any luggage, There is also ample free car parking.
Our apartment (I believe most two bedroom apartments are similar in size and layout) had two very large bedroom, both with their own bathroom. There is lots of wardrobe space for storage, and in the Master bathroom is where the sauna is. This was used daily by us all, and was a welcome extra.
The bedding was all crisp, clean and very comfortable. The curtains are so heavy they block out all light (I love a dark room) and the noise from the roads is minimal. The towels were very luxurious and there were full size bath sheets unlike many places I've stayed.
Kitchen area
Kitchen area was more than an adequate size and was better equipped than mine at home, we had a dishwasher (dishwasher tablets provided) and a washing machine, which came in very useful to wash swimming items and some clothing before our return home.
Living Dining area
There were two comfortable sofa's in the living area, and a TV / DVD player, TV was freeview with Sky Sports channels - thankfully we visited on a weekend where there was no Premier League games otherwise it's likely we would never have left the apartment!
The apartments are very warm - this was without heating, however if you like it warmer there is heating and thermostatic controls, as well as an electric fire in living area. If you like it cooler there are fans provided.
There was Tea / Coffee provided and a breakfast basket of cereal and fresh milk.
Food
The first evening we ate out at The Joiners Arms, the food was beautiful, however that's a whole different review. It was located about 3 miles away in Quandon and a taxi was approx £6.
We purchased some food from Sainsbury in Derby Intu Shopping Centre and also ordered a chinese take away using Just Eat.
The apartments are so quiet, we barely saw anyone, despite them being full. All staff that we met were very friendly and informative about the local area.
Carl and Lisa, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for a lovely stay, your very kind gesture means a lot and I wish you and all the team a very successful future.