Four top pubs in Peak District offering cask ales and stunning countryside views

Derby’s rich brewing history means it is widely considered to be the real ale capital by locals and visiting beer enthusiasts alike.

When Lonely Planet magazine named Derby as ‘the best place for real ale in the world’ we heartily cheered with a knowing nod and raising a pint in agreement.

Discovering a new pub and some great ale is an adventure in itself.

Going out for a wander and exploring the pub scene can be great fun. 

If you don’t know where to start, we have some top recommendations that could well be your new favourite pub.

We spoke to Emily Williamson, founder of Pub Tours who takes beer fans on a delectable  journey across Derbyshire as they learn about pubs and their history and the process.

What makes a great pub?

According to Emily, several factors come into play.

She said: “For us, a pub is elevated to greatness if it serves fabulous drinks and offers them with a genuine smile and respect for the pint. 

“The pub experience is better too if the ambiance is welcoming and friendly, so there could be local bell ringers, walking groups or PTA who are making the very most of their community hub!

“We are big fans of The Real Ale Finder because we know how fantastic it is at connecting real ale lovers to the ales that they’d like to try, or retry whilst visiting the Peaks.”

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Here are four of Emily’s pub recommendations in Derbyshire.

Top Derbyshire pubs according to Pub Tours beer expert

The Flying Childers Inn, Stanton in Peak

This small but perfectly formed traditional village pub, which is also part of Pub Tours serves great ales and lunches. 

Emily said: “The pub serves at least seven cask ales at any one time and often changes to showcase local ales, to give customers a wide range of options.”

Address: The Flying Childers Inn, Main Road, Stanton in Peak, Matlock DE4 2LW

The Greyhound Inn, Warslow

This family run coach inn is also an award winning pub and has been featured on BBC too.

There’s no chance of running out of acclaimed ales here. 

Emily said: “The Greyhound Inn has its own microbrewery onsite, which means they always have their Wilson’s of Warslow real ales on offer in their pub too.”

Address: The Greyhound Inn, Leek Road, Warslow, Buxton SK17 0JN

The Blind Bull, Little Hucklow

Based in a sympathetically restored 12th century inn, this pub’s cask ales are the talk of the town.

Emily said: “The Blind Bull in Little Hucklow always has a fabulous selection of real ales on offer, Eyam Brewery often having their cask ales showcased.

“Of course, for a huge selection of ales, Thornbridge Taproom showcases their wide range at their vibrant Tap room next to their brewery in Bakewell.

“Here you can sample many of their masterpieces which includes one of our personal favourites, Brother Rabbit.”

Address: The Blind Bull, Little Hucklow, Buxton SK17 8RT

The Maynard, Grindleford

This boutique hotel’s pub offers discerning beer fans a taste of sophistication. 

Emily said: “We have a special spot for The Maynard in Grindleford who always have four cask ales from Thornbridge, Abbeydale and Peak Ales Breweries.

“The pub is ideal to visit after a wander down to Padley Gorge for a little leg stretch to further justify a pint or two!”

Address: The Maynard, Main Road, Grindleford, Hope Valley S32 2HE

Read more: What's On in Derby?

Reflecting on the place of pubs in the community, Emily said: “At Pub Tours we love exploring the hidden gems within the Peak District.

“We are passionate about pubs that foster local community spirit and their place in history too.”

For more information about Pub Tours visit their website by clicking here.