I discover Derbyshire hidden gem restaurant offering breath-taking countryside views and unique dishes

Ria Ghei
By Ria Ghei

Journalist

Published 27th Apr 2025, 08:05 BST
Updated 28th Apr 2025, 10:10 BST

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Explore the hidden culinary gem, The Bowling Green in Ashbourne, offering a unique dining experience with its scoop chips and rustic charm.

It is not often I see something unique on a menu, having dined out for the best part of two decades.

Yet one Derbyshire restaurant left me agog for two main reasons.

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The Bowling Green in Ashbourne is situated next door to luxury retreat Stables and is owned by the same operators.

Jaw-dropping views, sublime food and warm hospitality is on offer at The Bowling Green Steakhouse, AshbourneJaw-dropping views, sublime food and warm hospitality is on offer at The Bowling Green Steakhouse, Ashbourne
Jaw-dropping views, sublime food and warm hospitality is on offer at The Bowling Green Steakhouse, Ashbourne | Ria Ghei

Now, I have visited Ashbourne numerous times ever since moving to Derby 13 years ago.

I just wish I had heard of The Bowling Green sooner, because it is a place that offers a warm welcome and delicious food.

The food may be the big draw, however step outside and you will be rewarded with stunning views across Derbyshire. I wish there was an al fresco area outside, you really need to be onsite to truly appreciate the sweeping views of the jaw-dropping Derbyshire landscape.

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Named a Steakhouse, The Bowling Green is so much more.

It is a gastropub, country pub, rustic eatery and cafe serving some of the finest food in Derbyshire.

The Bowling Green Steakhouse Ashbourne serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. My fish and chips was a hearty, comforting, and perfectly cooked meal.The Bowling Green Steakhouse Ashbourne serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. My fish and chips was a hearty, comforting, and perfectly cooked meal.
The Bowling Green Steakhouse Ashbourne serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. My fish and chips was a hearty, comforting, and perfectly cooked meal. | Ria Ghei

My fish and chips was proper and a generous portion, however the chips had me gawking and double-taking.

Scooped in a sort of funnel formation, I discovered they were perfect for holding any topping and seasoning perfectly, from salt granules to mushy peas.

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Scoop shaped chips in Ashbourne, Derbyshire, are easily my culinary find of the yearScoop shaped chips in Ashbourne, Derbyshire, are easily my culinary find of the year
Scoop shaped chips in Ashbourne, Derbyshire, are easily my culinary find of the year | Ria Ghei

I have never seen these before, although I am reliably informed ‘scoop chips’ are a thing abroad, especially Europe.

Gorgeously burnished, medium rare steak with peppercorn sauce was a hit at the tableGorgeously burnished, medium rare steak with peppercorn sauce was a hit at the table
Gorgeously burnished, medium rare steak with peppercorn sauce was a hit at the table | Ria Ghei

Dining partner enjoyed his chunky steak, the punchy peppercorn sauce was just a silken, piquant bonus.

Based 17 miles and an approximate 30-minute drive from Derby city centre, The Bowling Green should be on any good food appreciator’s Must-Visit List.

Location: The Bowling Green Steakhouse, 2 North Avenue, Ashbourne DE6 1EZ

For more information click here: bgsteakhouse.co.uk

Related topics:RestaurantDerbyshireFoodCountry pub

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