I don’t know about you, but as the temperature drops, I crave a cosy pub.
Cosy pubs in the Peak District require open fires, real ales (/decent wine list), and a warm welcome for a magical combination. The Peak District national park is blessed with many lovely pubs, here are five of my favourites. All perfect after a day’s hiking or biking – or just a destination in themselves.
Devonshire Arms in Beeley and Pilsley
Kicking off cosy pubs in the Peak District is the Devonshire Arms in Beely and Pilsley. The Devonshire Arms at Beeley has nailed that elusive combination of charming country inn with just the right amount of bougee vibes. This 18th century inn is part of the Chatsworth estate and hosts both a traditional bar area and a bright, spacious brasserie. It’s the perfect place for a post-Chatsworth pint, G&T or bite to eat. You can even stay over in one of their beautiful rooms. Dog friendly.
Similarly, The Devonshire Arms at Pilsley, also owned by the Chatsworth Estate and very similar to the one in Beeley (minus the contemporary brasserie area). A charming country inn with great food and service. Real fires in the winter and dog friendly in the bar area.
Royal Oak, Hurdlow
The Royal Oak is a charming country pub located near Buxton. With open fires and plenty of cosy corners, this is the perfect place to relax after a bracing walk in the Peak District national park. The Royal Oak prides itself on ‘proper food, generous portions and sensible prices’ and has an extensive menu of hearty pub fayre including some more adventurous dishes and a small tapas menu. Many of the dishes are made using local produce. Dogs are welcome in all areas of the pub.
Yorkshire Bridge Inn, near Bamford
For a cosy pub that can be combined with seeing the beautiful Ladybower Reservoir in all its autumnal glory, try the Yorkshire Bridge Inn. Multi award-winning, and family-owned, this traditional country inn is just a short stroll from the banks of the stunning Ladybower Reservoir. Food is prepared using local produce. There’s a great choice of local ales and a decent wine list.
The Scotsman’s Pack, Hathersage
The Scotsman’s Pack in pretty Hathersage is a beautiful example of a traditional country inn. Cosy up by the real fires – perfect after a day’s hiking in the Peak District (with plenty of walk suggestions on their website). The Scotsman’s Pack prides itself on serving up home-cooked meals using locally sourced ingredients. Expect generous portions. It’s the sort of place that three generations of the family could enjoy together. Dog friendly.
For more great Derbyshire pubs, check out Molly’s guide to 16 cosy pubs in Derbyshire.
Molly Scott is a Derbyshire blogger. Her website, Lovely Local Indie celebrates the best independents to eat, drink, spa, stay and shop at. She can also be found on Instagram. She will be back next month for another post around Derbyshire!
Whilst you are here, enjoy our last guest post sharing ‘Seven Sunday Dinner Spots in Nottingham‘!
