The George at Alstonefield

Occupying a truly picturesque spot overlooking the village green, The George at Alstonefield is something very special. The award-winning pub turned restaurant has been recognised in The Good Food Guide since 2009, received the ultimate foodie accolades of Michelin and Sawday’s approval, and been featured in the Guardian and The Sunday Times. The gourmet menu centres around ingredients sourced within a 15 mile radius (including from its own bees, hens and organic kitchen garden) and is perfectly complemented by a changing wine list.

The vibe is far from pretentious, however. In summer, The George’s outdoor benches are often crammed with walkers enjoying a leisurely pint, while in winter the cosy Coach House bar offers a welcome space for those with muddy boots and wet dogs. The stripped back decor follows an elegant, contemporary aesthetic whilst retaining the original character of a traditional Derbyshire pub, with thick wooden beams, lime plaster walls, time-worn quarry flags, and of course, a roaring log fire. Be warned, this is an extremely popular place among locals as well as those from further afield, so be sure to book a table in advance to avoid disappointment.

Alstonefield itself is well worth a visit. Not too far a journey from Buxton, the village is set in the midst of the gentle White Peak and dissected by numerous well established scenic walks linking up with nearby Ilam, Hartington, Mill Dale and Dovedale. The Grade I listed parish church, dedicated to St Peter, has original examples of 12th century stonework and is believed to be on the site of an earlier Saxon church.

Whether you’re looking for a five-star meal or a proper countryside romp followed by a well-deserved drink in a picture-book setting, The George at Alstonefield is hard to beat.