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One of the things that makes Hazel Tree Lodge truly special isn’t just the views, the hot tub, or even the peaceful setting. It’s the characters that call this place home. If you’d like, you may also have the chance to meet the animals during your stay, which many guests say is a memorable part of the experience.
Life on the farm is full of personality. From gentle giants to curious cats and one very unusual farm companion, each animal brings something unique to the land and to your stay.
Mylie: The Gentle Giant
At 17.3hh, Mylie is hard to miss — a beautiful black horse with a calm, steady presence. Despite her size, she’s incredibly gentle and rather a good dancer. You’ll often see her grazing quietly in the fields with her mini me pals, Dorrit and Ruby.
Starlight: The Old Soul
Every farm has its wise one and here, it’s Starlight. An older ewe with a soft nature, she loves a bit of attention. If you’re lucky enough to meet her, she’ll happily stand for a fuss, soaking it all in. She is the leader of the flock and they all follow her.
The Farm Cats: Full of Character
Then there are the cats each with their own personality, habits, and quirks. Most are named after super heroes.
- Goose – sofa legend and part time explorer (if the weather is warm). In the summer he’s down the fields and in winter never far from the aga.
- Mystique – the fussiest of cats and a bit of a wimp. She once saw a mouse and it scared her!
- Kimchi – best friends with Echo and a bit of an odd ball. She is completely set in her routine or morning breakfast and afternoon tea.
- Echo – a weight watcher and always pleading for food even though she would eat more than all the cats combined if we let her!
- Slinky – Adopted into the farm (he just turned up one day) and true to name, he’s always weaving around going places he shouldn’t
- Wanda – rarely in the same place twice and very shy. There is a reward for anyone who can stroke her.
- Storm – naughty and very bossy. The queen of the cats and master of the dogs. She fears nothing accept running out of cat biscuits.
You might spot them exploring the fields or lounging in the sun. They’re part of the everyday life here and protectors of the farm.
Thomas: The Tractor Cat Who Thinks He’s Red Dog
And then there’s Thomas — a bit of a legend around the farm.
A giant, wild-at-heart cat with the personality of a dog, Thomas doesn’t quite follow the usual rules. He’s known for tagging along like a farm dog. He’s friendly when he wants to be and completely wild at night. He doesn’t think he’s cat. A human maybe and a King at that.
His favourite activity? Jumping up for a ride on the tractor or mule (4×4). It’s quite the sight to see him riding along to go do the horses or bring in the sheep.
Krypto: Small but Mighty
At the opposite end of the size scale is Krypto, the tiniest member of the farm.
This little Chihuahua may be small, but he’s full of personality. Moving at a million miles an hour and hoovering up all the food. He’s super friendly and loves people. He’s your best friend from the moment he sees you.
A Living, Breathing Countryside
What makes these animals special isn’t just who they are — it’s how naturally they fit into life at Hazel Tree Lodge.
They’re not part of an attraction or a staged experience. They simply live here, as they always have, adding to the authenticity of your stay.
When you’re sitting outside with a coffee, relaxing in the hot tub, or taking in the view across the fields, you’ll often notice them going about their day — a reminder that you’re somewhere real.
What This Means for Your Stay
Staying at Hazel Tree Lodge isn’t just about switching off — it’s about reconnecting with a slower, more natural way of living.
The animals are part of that experience:
- A sense of calm that comes from being around them
- Small, unexpected moments that make your stay memorable
- A connection to the land that you don’t get in a typical holiday let
It’s these details that guests remember long after they’ve left.
More Than Just a Place to Stay
Located on the edge of the Peak District in Derbyshire, Hazel Tree Lodge offers a countryside escape with something extra — character.
Between the rolling fields, the peaceful setting, and the personalities that live here, it’s a place that feels alive in the best possible way.
Come and Meet Them for Yourself
Whether it’s Mylie grazing in the distance, Starlight enjoying a fuss at the gate, Thomas hitching a ride on the mule (4×4 gator), or one of the cats passing by on their daily wander, life at Hazel Tree Lodge is full of small moments that make a big impression.
If you’re looking for a Derbyshire countryside retreat with personality, you’ll find it here.
