Svitlana Barabash has been managing Florence Nightingale Suites in Derbyshire for the past eight months.

During this time, she has built the day-to-day operation from the ground up — and not everything has come easily.

She is not someone who gives up. Svitlana understands both the reality of hands-on work and the importance of creating a space where guests feel genuinely welcome.

At different times, the team here ranges from one to three people. Quite often, Svitlana manages everything herself — from preparing breakfast and welcoming guests to coordinating maintenance, arranging repairs, and caring for the garden.

Guests value her not only for her homemade borscht and traditional Ukrainian varenyky, but also for the warmth and attention they receive — the feeling of staying not just in serviced accommodation, but somewhere closer to visiting friends.

Located near Lea Hurst in Holloway, Florence Nightingale Suites offers a quiet and personal alternative to hotels in Derbyshire, ideal for those looking for thoughtful hospitality and a more intimate stay.

— What does “good service” mean to you?

It’s when a guest feels something — not just notices it.
You can do everything “correctly”, but without feeling, it doesn’t stay with people.

— What matters more: details or overall atmosphere?

Details create the atmosphere.
Guests may not always be able to explain why they felt comfortable, but it’s always the small things that shape the experience.

— Why do guests come back?

Because they remember how they felt here.
In hospitality, that matters more than anything else.

— Is service something you can measure?

Partly. Studies show that many guests return because of their experience, not the price.

But the real measure is simple — when someone says: “I’d like to come back.”

— How do you deal with negative feedback?

With attention, not defensiveness.
It’s not criticism — it’s insight. It helps you improve.

— What do guests value most today?

Sincerity.
People immediately sense what is genuine and what is just routine.

— How is the work organized at Florence Nightingale Suites?

It varies. Sometimes we are a team of two or three, but quite often it’s just me managing everything.

That includes preparing food, welcoming and looking after guests, organizing repairs, finding trades people, and maintaining the garden.
If something needs fixing — I find the right person.

If trees need pruning — I arrange a gardener.
Smaller tasks — I take care of myself.

— Is it difficult?

Overall, yes.
But the property is relatively small, and unlike larger hotels, we don’t have the budget for a full team. So everything is managed flexibly, depending on the situation.

— What was the most challenging part at the beginning?

The beginning was the hardest. Everything was new.
Even simple things — like lighting a fireplace or dealing with a stuck window lock — had to be learned in practice.
That experience makes things easier now. You learn that you can handle it.

— What makes Florence Nightingale Suites different?

It’s not just a place to stay.
It’s a space shaped by care, intention, and personal involvement.

— What would you like to say to your guests?

Thank you for choosing us.
This house exists because of you.

Visit us in Derbyshire

Florence Nightingale Suites is located in Lea Hurst, Lea Shaw, Holloway, Derbyshire — a peaceful setting perfect for a relaxing countryside stay.
If you’re looking for a cosy place to stay in Derbyshire, with a personal touch and genuine hospitality, you are very welcome to book your stay with us.