Kate W
04 November 2019
When the chilly weather sets in and the landscape of this national park has become a glittering winter wonderland, there’s nothing better than settling down in a traditional Peak District pub, wood burner roaring away, with good pub food and great company.
The Peak District must be one of the best places for walks with pubs, due to the breathtaking views and variety of terrain you can encounter in this fantastic national park. Visit some of the best pubs in Derbyshire after a long wildlife walk where you might spot deer through the trees and sheep grazing on the slopes; you could even bring your dog along for a pet-friendly break to conquer this landscape together.
Other activities that come to life in this part of the UK include fell running, fishing, caving and horse riding, and there’s a wonderful variety of waterfall walks for you to try as well. We have a whole range of beautiful holiday cottages in the Peak District for you to stay in while you explore and investigate this incredible region.
After winding walks, adventurous activities and even wild swims in this fantastic Derbyshire landscape, you’ll be in need of a warming, cosy pub where you can enjoy a well-deserved tasty meal and relax with friends and family.
From dog-friendly pubs and gastropubs to family-friendly inns, we have put together a few great foodie destinations. Take a look at the best pubs in the Peak District and find your favourite place for a bite to eat.
Best for: a walk that finishes at a pub
Jacob’s Ladder is the beginning of the Pennine Way and offers an 11-mile route around the base of Kinder Scout, the highest peak in the national park - you could even climb to the top if you want to challenge yourself! Afterwards, refuel and put your feet up at this Peak District inn where olde world décor offers an atmospheric place to dine.
Dog-friendly: Yes
Location: Whitehough, Chinley, High Peak SK23 6EJ
Best for: dogs and their owners
A cosy pet-friendly pub situated in Hope, surrounded by the beautiful Hope Valley and all those dog-friendly walks and trails to follow, this place has a wonderful atmosphere for you and your doggo to enjoy. Dine beside one of the open fires, perfect for warming wet paws, and enjoy good pub food and a bottle of their real ale.
Dog-friendly: Of course - this place is perfect for playful pups!
Location: Edale Rd, Hope, Hope Valley S33 6ZF
Best for: a day out to a country house
Set on the beautiful Chatsworth Estate, this two AA Rosette-awarded establishment is a divine place to stop while exploring the exquisite surroundings. Head over to Chatsworth House to investigate the pretty interior that’s riddled with history, and the exquisite gardens and family-friendly farmyard before sitting down to chat about your day over a pub lunch.
Dog-friendly: Dogs are welcome in the bar area on a lead.
Location: Devonshire Square, Matlock DE4 2NZ
Best for: golfers
With an incredible 13 golf courses within a 6-mile radius, this pub is a great one for those who would like to tee off before tucking into a well-earned Sunday roast. Inside, it’s cosy and characterful with antiques and a wood burner while outside, there’s a pretty beer garden with stone walls and occasional flowers during the summer months.
Dog-friendly: Yes
Location: Mellor Road, New Mills, High Peak, SK22 4QQ
Best for: a big group dinner
An unassuming country pub with a roaring fire and tranquil beer garden, you may be surprised to hear this place holds two AA Rosettes for culinary excellence, making this the go-to destination for foodies. Unpretentious and relaxed, impress your guests by booking a celebration lunch or big family dinner at this charming gastropub.
Dog-friendly: No
Location: Froggatt Edge, A625, Calver, Hope Valley S32 3ZJ
Best for: takeaway treats
With a farm shop on site as well as the option to take away tasty pre-cooked pub food, you can pop in for a drink then head out to dine back at your holiday home. Everyone knows that feeling of not wanting to move after eating a big tasty dinner, this way you won’t have to with this Peak District inn – just lounge on the sofas in the privacy of your cottage and enjoy a relaxed evening in.
Dog-friendly: Yes
Location: Woodhead Rd, Holme HD9 2QG
Best for: families with energetic children
With a wooden children’s play area that includes swings, rope climbing and a slide, not to mention a big garden space for kids to run about in, this place is well set up for families bringing youngsters to dinner. There’s even a kids' menu so fussy eaters are well-catered for.
Dog-friendly: Yes
Location: Brough Ln, Hope Valley S33 9HG
Best for: a romantic meal for two
With roaring fires and endless country charm, this pub offers comfy seating and hidden corners where you and your partner can enjoy the ambience and chatter of locals after a busy day exploring the Peak District. There are a selection of walks for the two of you to wander before settling down to try one of their cask-conditioned ales or a glass of wine.
Dog-friendly: Yes
Location: Hurdlow, Buxton SK17 9QJ
Peak District pubs
Now you’ve discovered some of the best country pubs in the Peak District, you know just where to head for that all-important dinner out during your holiday. Better yet, enjoy several evenings down the pub and try out a few of the different establishments we’ve put together on this list.
Ready to find the perfect holiday cottage for your Peak District adventure? Start browsing our collection and find yourself a warm and welcoming hideaway for you and the family to enjoy.
Holiday cottages
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.