Nestled in the heart of England, Derbyshire is a county rich in stunning landscapes, historic towns, and—most importantly—exceptional food and drink. From artisan cheeses and locally brewed ales to traditional Bakewell tarts and farm-to-table dining, Derbyshire offers a feast for food lovers. Whether you’re exploring the Peak District or meandering through quaint market towns, this Derbyshire Food and Drink Trail will lead you to some of the county’s most delicious stops.
🍞 Stop 1: Breakfast at The Old Smithy, Monyash
📍 Location: Monyash, Peak District
Start your journey with a hearty, locally sourced breakfast at The Old Smithy, a charming café housed in a former blacksmith’s shop. Their full English breakfast is legendary, featuring locally cured bacon, Peak District sausages, and free-range eggs. If you prefer something lighter, try their homemade Derbyshire oatcakes, a local specialty served with melted cheese or bacon.
🔥 Must-Try: Derbyshire oatcakes with cheese and bacon
🧀 Stop 2: Hartington Cheese Shop – A Cheese Lover’s Heaven
📍 Location: Hartington, near Buxton
No food trail in Derbyshire would be complete without sampling its famous cheeses. The Hartington Cheese Shop is a must-visit, offering an array of locally made, award-winning cheeses. The village has a rich cheesemaking history, and you’ll find everything from Hartington Stilton to Derbyshire Blue. Pair your cheese selection with a locally made chutney for the perfect picnic.
🔥 Must-Try: Peakland Blue Cheese
🍰 Stop 3: Bakewell for the Iconic Bakewell Tart & Pudding
📍 Location: Bakewell
A visit to Derbyshire isn’t complete without trying the world-famous Bakewell Tart and Bakewell Pudding. Head to The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop to taste the traditional pudding, a rich almond and jam-filled delight. If you prefer the more familiar Bakewell Tart, visit Bloomers of Bakewell, where the sweet, icing-topped version is a local favorite.
🔥 Must-Try: The original Bakewell Pudding
🍺 Stop 4: Thornbridge Brewery – Craft Beer in the Peaks
📍 Location: Bakewell
After a sweet treat, it’s time to explore Derbyshire’s thriving craft beer scene. Thornbridge Brewery, one of the UK’s most celebrated breweries, is based in Bakewell and offers a fantastic brewery tour and tasting experience. Their beers, like the iconic Jaipur IPA, showcase bold flavors with a nod to traditional brewing techniques.
🔥 Must-Try: Jaipur IPA (a world-renowned craft beer)
🥩 Stop 5: The Bulls Head, Ashford-in-the-Water – A Classic Pub Lunch
📍 Location: Ashford-in-the-Water
Set in one of the Peak District’s prettiest villages, The Bulls Head is the perfect stop for a classic Derbyshire pub lunch. The menu features locally sourced meats, homemade pies, and seasonal produce, served in a cozy, traditional setting. Their Derbyshire beef and ale pie is a standout, especially when paired with a local pint.
🔥 Must-Try: Derbyshire beef and ale pie
🍏 Stop 6: Bluebells Dairy – Award-Winning Ice Cream
📍 Location: Spondon, near Derby
For a sweet mid-afternoon treat, make your way to Bluebells Dairy, a family-run farm producing some of the best ice cream in the region. Made with milk from their own herd, their flavors range from classic vanilla to innovative Derbyshire-themed creations like Bakewell Tart ice cream. They also have a petting farm, making it a fun stop for families.
🔥 Must-Try: Bakewell Tart ice cream
🍸 Stop 7: White Peak Distillery – Derbyshire’s Craft Gin & Whisky
📍 Location: Ambergate
If you’re a fan of spirits, a visit to White Peak Distillery is a must. Set in a historic wire works factory along the Derwent Valley, this independent distillery produces locally crafted gin and whisky. Take a guided tour to learn about the distillation process and sample their signature Shining Cliff Gin or Wire Works Whisky.
🔥 Must-Try: Wire Works Whisky
🍽 Stop 8: Fine Dining at Fischers Baslow Hall
📍 Location: Baslow, near Chatsworth House
End your Derbyshire food journey with an unforgettable fine dining experience at Fischers Baslow Hall, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its elegant, locally sourced cuisine. Their seasonal tasting menus highlight the best of Derbyshire produce, from wild game to fresh Peak District vegetables.
🔥 Must-Try: The seasonal tasting menu, featuring locally foraged ingredients
🛍 Bonus Stop: Derbyshire Food Markets & Farm Shops
Before heading home, stop by one of Derbyshire’s excellent farm shops or food markets to take a taste of the county with you.
- Chatsworth Farm Shop (Pilsley) – A treasure trove of local cheeses, meats, and baked goods.
- Matlock Farmers’ Market – Perfect for picking up homemade chutneys, craft ciders, and artisan bread.
🚗 Planning Your Derbyshire Food & Drink Adventure
🗺 Best Route: Start in the Peak District, explore Bakewell, and finish near Derby.
🚗 Getting Around: A car is the best way to explore the countryside at your own pace.
📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer offer the best weather, but autumn is perfect for cozy pub visits.
🍽️ Final Thoughts: A Food Lover’s Paradise in Derbyshire
From traditional Bakewell Pudding and Peak District cheeses to craft beer, gin, and fine dining, Derbyshire is a dream destination for food and drink enthusiasts. Whether you’re indulging in pub classics by a roaring fire or enjoying a Michelin-starred meal, this Derbyshire Food & Drink Trail showcases the very best of the region’s flavors.
🌍 Which stop would you visit first? Let your taste buds guide you on this delicious adventure! 🍴🥂