Walking builds up an appetite, and luckily, the Peak District delivers on the food front. From cosy pubs and charming cafes to hearty breakfasts and indulgent puddings, there’s something tasty waiting around every corner. Whether you’re refuelling after a long hike or just popping in for a slice of cake, here are the best spots to eat your way around the Peaks.
What to Expect from Peak District Food
Think generous portions, locally-sourced ingredients, and proper comfort food. Expect things like homemade pies, roast dinners, Derbyshire oatcakes, Bakewell puddings, and lashings of gravy. Many places also cater for vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free diets, especially in the bigger towns.
Top Picks for a Good Feed
1. Pubs with Proper Grub
- The Packhorse Inn, Little Longstone – Gastropub vibes with seasonal menus, local ales, and lovely views.
- The Bulls Head, Monyash – A walker’s favourite with generous portions, a great beer garden, and homemade specials.
- The Cheshire Cheese Inn, Hope – Cosy, traditional, and perfect for a post-walk pint and pie.
2. Cafes & Tearooms
- Hathersage Social Club, Hathersage – Creative menu, excellent brunch, and good coffee.
- The Old Smithy, Monyash – Classic tearoom with great breakfasts, sandwiches, and cakes.
- The Rambler Inn Cafe, Edale – Right by the station; perfect for walkers starting or finishing the Pennine Way.
3. Bakeries & Sweet Treats
- The Bakewell Pudding Parlour, Bakewell – Try the original pudding (not tart!) and take one home.
- Tideswell Bakery, Tideswell – Great for fresh bread, sausage rolls, and cakes.
- Bloomers of Bakewell – A family-run spot with legendary pies and puddings.
4. Farm Shops & Local Produce
- Chatsworth Farm Shop, Pilsley – High-end deli vibes, amazing meat, cheese, and sweet treats. Grab a picnic and head to the estate.
- Tagg Lane Dairy, near Monyash – Artisan gelato, milkshakes, and great coffee. A hidden gem.
- Thornbridge Hall Brewery Shop, Ashford-in-the-Water – For craft beer lovers.
Cosy Spots for a Rainy Day
Sometimes the weather closes in and you need a warm seat, a hot drink, and some comfort food. Look out for:
- Roaring fires
- Homemade soups and toasties
- Giant slabs of cake
- Friendly, dog-welcoming places
Great for Vegetarians & Vegans
More places than ever are offering solid plant-based options:
- The Green Way Cafe, Matlock – Fully veggie with vegan options, soups, and salads.
- The Garden Room, Buxton – Modern, plant-based menu with a creative twist.
- Marmalade, Chesterfield – Lovely little cafe with inclusive options.
Food with a View
Some of the best bites come with a side of scenery:
- Monsal Head Hotel – Enjoy a pint and a pie overlooking the viaduct.
- The Barrel Inn, Bretton – One of the highest pubs in the Peaks with massive views.
- The Grouse Inn, Froggatt Edge – Gritstone ridge walks followed by hearty food.
Quick Bites & Picnic Stops
Need something on the go? Try:
- Hope Valley Ice Cream – Find their little parlour at Thorpe Farm.
- High Nelly’s, Tideswell – Good sandwiches, pasties, and takeaway coffee.
- The Bakewell Deli – Grab a packed lunch before heading to the Monsal Trail.
Final Tips
- Book ahead on weekends – Especially in popular towns or gastropubs
- Support local – Many places use regional produce and small suppliers
- Check seasonal hours – Some rural places close midweek or in winter
- Bring cash – A few smaller spots don’t take cards
From pub roasts to artisan gelato, the Peak District serves up comfort, quality, and a warm welcome. So go ahead—treat yourself. You’ve earned it.