Guest post by Derbyshire food blogger, Molly Scott, from Lovely Local Indie
For those rare date days, why not treat yourselves at one of the most romantic restaurants in the Peak District?
The Peak District is blessed with a wide range of eateries. Regular readers and visitors to the Peak District will be familiar with the area’s cosy pubs, most of which are really family friendly and perfect to refuel after a day’s walking or cycling in the area.
But, for weary parents looking for a romantic meal for two, the criteria is somewhat different! Like many couples, my husband and I have very little childfree time together as a couple. So when the stars align and we have secured some childcare, we both understand how precious this is.
Here’s my tried and tested recommendations of the most romantic restaurants in the Peak District, whether as part of a romantic escape, or a snatched date night. Book the babysitter, and indulge!
Locations of romantic Peak District restaurants
1. Fischer’s at Baslow Hall
The sweeping drive meandering through the manicured gardens is the first indication that Fischer’s is somewhere incredibly special. It’s not cheap, but this is the place to go for seriously enjoyable fine dining and impeccable, yet not-at-all stuffy, service. I enjoyed every single morsel of food that Head Chef, Adam Thackeray, and his team presented. Menus feature the best quality locally sourced ingredients, much sourced directly from those impressive kitchen gardens.
2. The Peacock at Rowsley
Part of the Haddon Estate, The Peacock at Rowsley is housed in the most irrepressibly romantic old building dating back to the 1600s. Inside the décor is that of a quintessentially English old manor house: traditional upholstery, historic paintings and charmingly wonky old floorboards.
The three AA rosette restaurant serves a delicious fine dining menu carefully curated by Head Chef Dan Smith. Or head to the quaint bar for a more casual dining experience.
The Peacock is also included in our list of most romantic Peak District hotels and getaways.
3. Lovage in Bakewell
Michelin-listed, Lovage offers creative, modern British cuisine courtesy of celebrity chef, Lee Smith in the heart of Bakewell. The gastro equivalent of “quiet luxury”, both the venue and food exude stylish, refined elegance, whilst the service is attentive, professional and unfailing friendly.
4. The Maynard in Grindleford
Perfectly placed for exploring Padley Gorge and the Longshaw Estate, The Maynard offers a refreshing, contemporary approach to the classic country hotel. Locally sourced menus feature an exceptionally good range of gluten free options and tantalising wine lists (supplied by wine merchants Hattersley Wines in Bakewell). Don’t miss the Grindleford Gourmand, a delightful selection of miniature desserts served with either an espresso or glass of fizz or dessert wine.
5. Bank House Hathersage
A great all-rounder. Buzzy cocktail bar downstairs (complete with chic après tipi in the festive season transformed into a Mediterranean pavement café in the summer) and intimate dining room upstairs, Bank House’s rural location belies it’s chic, city sophistication. It’s popularity ensures a bustling ambiance and booking is advised.
6. The Devonshire Arms at Pilsley
This charming pub is a previous winner of the ‘Pub of the Year’ category at the Visit Peak District Tourism Awards. Nestled in the heart of the Chatsworth Estate, there’s all the relaxed, rural charms of a traditional cosy pub but with the option of more elevated restaurant style food (alongside familiar classics).
7. Rutland Arms in Bakewell
The restaurant inside this charming coaching inn is an excellent date night destination. The food’s good, as is the wine and service – but it’s the overall ambiance that makes this place. Flattering mood lighting, comfy armchair and booth seating, cleverly positioned for maximum privacy… a gorgeous setting for dinner a deux.
Combine your meal with one of our circular Bakewell walks (they’re not just for kids these walks 😉).
8. The Red Lion at Peak Edge Hotel
Just outside the Peak District national park boundary, but worth mentioning, is the Peak Edge Hotel. The expansive bar areas of the Red Lion, with cosy nooks a plenty, are a wonderful place to relax with a drink before or after a meal in their lovely restaurant. This popular wedding venue is always beautifully dressed for the seasons, from the twinkling fairy lit trees to the stunning floral displays, it’s a wonderfully romantic place.
The Garden Room of the Red Lion Restaurant somehow manages to be light and airy in the daytime and then warm and inviting at night. Relax into a cosy booth and enjoy a locally sourced menu, much sourced directly from the owner’s farm. Service is unfailingly charming and never, ever stuffy.
You may also like to read:
The most romantic Peak District hotels and getaways
Peak District spa days: enjoy some well deserved luxury
Losehill Spa REVIEW: a hidden gem in the Peak District