A Foodie’s Guide to the Peak District

We love eating out and there is plenty of choice here in Derbyshire – here’s a foodie’s guide to the Peak District.

The Peak District isn’t just about rolling green hills and pretty villages. Tucked away in these idyllic scenes are some incredible restaurants serving up the bounty of the region. Here’s a look at some must-try spots according to the travel gods themselves – Conde Nast.

For the Gastropub Experience

The Blind Bull (Little Hucklow)

This 12th-century inn, revitalised by Raab Dykstra-McCarthy and Luke Hawkins, offers a charming atmosphere and hyper-local dishes. Expect 80% of ingredients sourced within 10 miles, featuring rare-bred pigs, grass-fed cattle, and creative comfort food. Don’t miss their buttermilk mushrooms or the decadent doughnut bread and butter pudding with brownie ice cream for dessert.  www.theblindbull.co.uk)

The Ashford Arms (Ashford in the Water)

This 17th-century country pub with rooms boasts a recent £1.6 million restoration. Chef Adrian Gagea and Chris Parker create menus showcasing local ingredients with a global twist. Try the wild mushroom and blue stilton Derbyshire oatcake or the slow-cooked ossobuco with truffled potato purée.  For a classic Sunday lunch, their perfectly pink roast lamb and beef sirloin are a must. Ashford Arms Website.

The Bull’s Head (Holymoorside)

This award-winning gastropub under Chef Patron Mark Aisthorpe offers a cosy atmosphere and exceptional food. Treat yourself to their 10-course Signature tasting menu featuring the finest seasonal produce or opt for the 5-course option for a fantastic value. Don’t miss their heavenly-light blackberry souffle made with foraged fruits. Chef Aisthorpe even runs a cookery school and foraging classes! Bull’s Head website.

The Pack Horse (Hayfield)

Nestled near Kinder Scout, this North Derbyshire pub offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Owners Luke Payne and Emma Daniels have created an award-winning menu alongside a community feel. Their lamb rump with spiced chickpea and cashew curry is a must-try, and don’t forget to end your meal with their salted caramel custard tart. Packhorse Website.

For Fine Dining

Built in 1652, this historic property with stunning riverside views offers a range of dining options. Chef Dan Smith creates seasonal menus, from a casual bar menu featuring beer-battered haddock and chips to a decadent nine-course tasting menu with show-stopping dishes like hand-picked crab and venison shot on the Haddon Estate. Peacock website.

Stones (Matlock)

Stand out amidst Matlock’s cafes with a modern British fine-dining experience. Family-run Stones, helmed by Kevin Stone, offers a la carte and tasting menus showcasing impeccable presentation and clever flavour combinations. Try their roast breast of wood pigeon or the roast beetroot with whipped feta for a unique take on classic ingredients. Stones website.

Fischer’s Baslow Hall (Baslow)

This elegant restaurant within the ivy-clad Baslow Hall offers a classic British dining experience. Their a la carte and tasting menus feature seasonal dishes made with homegrown vegetables, local produce, and foraged ingredients. Expect exceptional service and a luxurious ambience. Fischer’s website.

For a Unique Foodie Experience

Garden Room at Callow Hall (near Ashbourne)

This contemporary restaurant with a living roof and glass walls offers stunning Peak District views. Chef David Bukowicki and Tom Burton work with local suppliers and the estate’s kitchen garden to create dishes like line-caught mackerel ceviche and haunch of hare tagliatelle. Callow Hall website.

Lovage by Lee Smith (Bakewell)

This laid-back restaurant with a reputation for attracting celebrities offers inventive dishes. Don’t miss their cauliflower soup with curry granola or venison with date ketchup. Their lunch Market menu is perfect for a quick and delicious bite. Lovage website.

Combine Great Food with a Cottage Holiday at Wheeldon Trees

Wheeldon Trees Cottages offers the perfect base for your foodie holiday. Our luxury cottages provide a peaceful sanctuary for families and a relaxing retreat to soothe tired limbs.

Wheeldon Trees is your ideal escape for an unforgettable cottage holiday in 2024 and 2025. Nestled amidst 12 acres of the Peak District, we offer 10 stunning cottages. Each is designed for maximum comfort and relaxation. We also cater to your convenience with EV charging and an honesty shop. Our fantastic games room features pool, air hockey, and ping pong. You can explore the local area at your own pace with our complimentary electric bikes (including two new hybrid options). Alternatively, simply unwind and take in the breathtaking views.

Wheeldon Trees consistently earns recognition for its exceptional hospitality. TripAdvisor recently named Wheeldon Trees in the top 10% of places to stay in the world. Thanks to our visitors’ amazing reviews, we recently received the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 2024 for the second year running.