Derbyshire Eating Recommendations

From Bakewell Puddings to Derbyshire Oatcakes, the Peak District & Derbyshire is home to some of the finest pubs, cafe's and restaurants in the country. Here is a selection of our favourites

Local Pubs

The Knockerdown - Set on the beautiful Carsington Water, serving a selection of local food and drink. Due to the pub being next door you can access the pub through our secret gate on site. The pub is very dog friendly along with a large beer garden, children's play area, campsite and a large restaurant with views over Carsington Water. Please note that they close early on a Monday and Tuesday, so please check to avoid disappointment.

The Miners Arms at Carsington is a short drive from Knockerdown and sits on the footpath that loops around Carsington Water. A perfect spot for lunch offering hearty pub food, local ales and warm welcome. The main bar and snug is dog friendly, there is a large restaurant perfect for larger parties and they also a large beer garden and children's play area. 

The Red Lion at Hognaston a traditional 17th Century Inn sits in the small village of Hognaston , overlooking Carsington Water. This family run pub offers a great selection of food, real ales, and traditional pub atmosphere with roaring open fires in the winter and cosy bar area.

Ye Olde Gate Inn at Brassington named Britain’s cosiest pub by The Times. Roger Protz, the editor of The Good Beer Guide. Another 17th Century pub offering a warm Derbyshire welcome. Real ales and Gastro food is on offer here booking is advised as its popular with locals and visitor alike.

The Royal Oak at Hurdlow - A warm welcome awaits you at the Royal Oak. This cosy country pub is popular with locals and visitors alike. Situated just off the High Peak Trail near Buxton you can expect roaring fires in the winter, alfresco dining in the summer, hearty pub food made with locally sourced ingredients, real ales and fine wines. The perfect spot for a breakfast, lunch or dinner whilst on your tour of the Southern Peak District.

The Bull i'Th' Thorn - Dating back the 1472, a big black and white building sits along the A515 road between Buxton and Ashbourne.  Half cosy, rustic pub and half open, modern pizzeria and sports bar, the 'Bulli' welcomes a variety of clientele of all ages. The bar situated in the traditional pub is stocked with a great selection of local and regional beers, ciders, and ales, as well as an extensive wine list and a variety of spirits. And if you're looking for a cosy spot to enjoy your drink, the traditional pub atmosphere and roaring fireplace provide the perfect setting, or head outside to relax in the beer garden and soak-up the great outdoors. On the other side of the building, the contemporary pizzeria and sports bar is a sports lovers paradise with 6 TVs around the room showing all the live Sky Sports action. It's a great place to kick back and cheer on your favourite team.

The Cow, Dalbury Lees - Near Ashbourne this pub serves a menu of stunning, locally sourced food and a fine range of drinks, including local ales. Guests from far and wide are welcome to enjoy a relaxing dining experience at their countryside location.

The Cock Inn at Mugginton - Another pub with lots of history, originally called The Cock Horse Inn (hence the horse on the sign and not a cockerel!) this cosy pub has been refurbished with a modern and bright restaurant extension at the back which is perfect for a celebratory meal with family and friends. Or enjoy a grazing platter in the cosy bar area which keeps much of its original charm. They have a great vegan and gluten free menu available too.

The Sycamore Inn at Parwich - A traditional country pub in the pretty village of Parwich, this is a little hidden gem in the Derbyshire countryside serving good pub grub and also featuring the well stocked Village Store.

The Oakover Arms at Mappleton - Serving great food, this little gem is nestled on the edge of the beautiful Peak District. Also serves breakfast from 8.00 am.

The Shoulder of Mutton at Osmaston  - A traditional village pub in the archetypal English village of Osmaston with a duck pond, church and thatched cottages, serving a a varied great menu of hot and cold meals that combine the best in English home cooking. 

The George at Alstonfield - More of a restaurant than a pub, The George is an unspoilt, award winning family run pub in the Peak District village of Alstonefield, above Dovedale and a stones throw from Mill Dale within the Peak National Park. Arguably one of the best pubs in Derbyshire head here to enjoy their well kept real ales, carefully selected wine list and exceptional food; a standard recognised in The Good Food Guide since 2009; Michelin and Sawdays – to name but a few.

The Duncombe Arms at Ellastone - Another award winning restaurant/pub. This one is a little further afield but its worth the trip out for a special occasion meal or celebration. Close to the market towns of Ashbourne and Uttoxeter and just three miles from the hugely popular theme park Alton Towers, they serve classic and modern British food of fine-dining quality in the warm, relaxed surroundings of a local country pub.

Cafes and Tea Rooms

The Sour Cow in Wirksworth - Based on the Market Place the Sour Cow serves lovely fresh food including English & American breakfasts, desserts, waffles, takeaway bento boxes for lunch and frozen yoghurt. 

Herberts Fine English Tea Rooms in Tissington - The perfect place to stop for refreshments after exploring the lovely village of Tissington. Serving a selection of teas, coffees, light lunches, cakes and of course afternoon tea complete with homemade scones. 

When The Clock Strikes 3 in Matlock Bath - Located in the picturesque Spa Town of Matlock Bath, this tea shop is in the heart of the community. Offering a choice of indoor and outdoor seating, ingredients are all locally sourced and produce is freshly home-made. The menu offers a wide range of breakfasts, sandwiches and soups, cream teas and cake, but they are most famous for their afternoon teas. They are also able to cater for large parties such as hen do's, business events, weddings and parties.

Cafe in the Park, Matlock - This delightful little café is situated in the heart of Hall Leys Park in Matlock. The menu is packed, from hot, jacket potatoes, wraps, with a filled salad, a selection of hot and cold drinks and a breakfast menu, available until 11.30am. There is also a great selection of teas coffee, cakes and scones. They have indoor and outdoor seating and host themed bistro nights too.

The Tunnel Cafe in Ashbourne - This dog friendly cafe is small but perfectly formed. Serving a range of breakfast, brunch and lunch dishes alongside tea coffee and cakes! Vegan and vegetarian options are also available here. 

Cafe Impromptu in Ashbourne - One of the best cafe's in Ashbourne, Cafe Impromptu offer a wide range of homemade food, with barista style coffee, and is perfectly located in the heart of this charming market town. Definitely one not to miss.

Hartington Farm Shop and Cafe in Hartington - Situated in the pretty village of Hartington this farm shop & café serves, breakfast, lunch, snacks & delicious homemade cakes. They also sell gifts & fresh local produce so its a great place to pop into for some souvenirs as well as a pot of tea and slice of cake!

The Fountain Tea Rooms at Bonsall - A short drive from Wirksworth, this comfortable and friendly tea room offers you a great selection of choice - whether you are wanting breakfast, lunch or simply a coffee and a piece of cake, it's a great place to watch village life or sit and read a paper or magazine.

Cocoa Cafe @ I Should Cocoa in Belper - In the heart of the bustling market town of Belper, artisan cafe, serves home made food in their cosy cafe and supply hand made artisan chocolates. From tantalising treats to ultimate hot chocolates. They also serve amazing Chilli Nachos and different salads of the week.  Alfresco dining is always available in their secret courtyard garden and they have a great selection of Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten Free options.

Wyes Water Afternoon Tea Delivery - Can't make it out of your cottage. Order a Peak District afternoon tea delivery direct to your cottages. Wyes Waters provide everything you need for a fabulous afternoon tea served in your cottage. 

Restaurants

Mainsail Restaurant at Carsington Water - Enjoy stunning views of the water whilst you dine on locally produced and homemade food. Serving Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner and a daily specials board, its a great spot for any occasion and is just a short walk from Knockerdown Cottages

Lamplight Restaurant in Ashbourne - The Lamplight is a family run restaurant in the centre of the historic market town of Ashbourne. Built in 1493 the building was first used as a coach house, then a hostelry called the Tiger Inn. Now its serves as a British/French restaurant and has a great seasonal menu. Pop in for lunch or book for dinner. It can also be hired for a private function and can seat up to 50 guests.

Maazi at Matlock - Arguably one of the best Indians in the County. Maazi's have been serving amazing Indian food for many years. Eat in or takeaway available. They also have a sister restaurant in Hathersage.

Stones, Matlock Serving a modern British menu this fine dining restaurant is in the centre of Matlock and is ideal for a special occasion. The food it excellent and they have an outside river terrace where you can relax and enjoy the riverside location. Great place for a special occasion.

Fischers at Baslow - Derbyshires only Michelin starred restaurant offers a dining experience unrivalled in personal service, luxurious attention to detail and brilliant, imaginative modern British food at its inventive, eclectic best. If you are looking for a place for an extra special celebration then Fischers is the place to go, but booking is essential to be guaranteed a table.

The Peacock at Rowsley - Offers both an indulgent, fine dining menu and a more relaxed bar menu to suit most tastes or moods. The key behind each dish served at The Peacock is seasonal, quality ingredients sourced as locally as possible. Serving Lunch and Dinners every day, they also offer a tasting menu on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Thom Yum Thai Kitchen in Belper - Authentic Thai food serving a wide range of dishes with a great vegetarian selection. Takeaway is also available.

Arthurs Restaurant in Belper - Arthur's is a cosy 24 seater bistro located on Campbell street, Belper. The menu showcases the best of Derbyshire produce in a classic al a carte format, focusing on seasonal food, wild British game (when in season and available) and nose to tail cooking practices.

Take-aways

Ashbourne  - 10 minutes Drive
Anayas Indian Takeaway & Restaurant - Anaya’s is an Indian restaurant that offers a variety of curries and small plates. Feast on true classic curries from India’s far-flung corners or explore the wonderful variety of flavours across our thalis, the undoubted stars of the show.

Benny's Pizza  & Kebab House - Traditional Pizza & Kebab House 

The Basement Thai - Located in the centre of Ashbourne, serving authentic Thai dishes with a scent of sweet & spice flavours

Star Anise Indian Takeaway & Restaurant - Traditional Indian Takeaway

Golden Hill Chinese -  Traditional Chinese Takeaway

Market Place Fish & Chips Takeaway & Restaurant Market Place Fish Restaurant is your classic local chip shop and takeaway

Dalo's Pizza & Kabab Takeaway -  Traditional Pizza & Kabab House 

Red Chilli Indian Takeaway & Restaurant - Authentic Indian Cuisine 


Wirksworth - 10 minutes Drive 

Wirksworth Balti - Creating top quality takeaway curries, burgers, pizzas & kebabs

Birds Nest Chinese - No website - contact T: 01629 760 111

Wirksworth Fish Bar - Traditional Fish & Chips shop


Matlock Bath - 15 minutes Drive

China Rose Chinese Takeaway & Restaurant - Traditional Chinese Cuisine 

The Balti Indian Takeaway & Restaurant - Traditional Indian Cuisine 


Matlock - 20 minutes Drive

Maazi - Traditional Indian Cuisine 

Bellini Pizzeria - Serving Kebab's, wraps, burgers & much more

The Shalimar Tandoori Cuisine - Traditional Indian Cuisine

Thailand No 1 - Traditional Thai food