Video: We chat with Peak District trailblazer celebrating Derbyshire heritage at unique destination eatery

An award-winning Peak District business is championing Derbyshire heritage and local produce by showcasing Stoney Middleton’s fascinating history.

The Cupola Visitor Centre & Kitchen is a unique concept.

The eatery is a bar, pizzeria, grill and restaurant.

It is one of the top rated eateries in Stoney Middleton, with recent Tripadvisor reviewers describing it as ‘amazing’ ‘beautiful’ and ‘gorgeous’.

It is also a tourist information hub that makes learning and history as enjoyable as eating ice cream.

Based 35 miles and one hours’ drive from Derby city centre, The Cupola’s multi-faceted use - it is also a retail space and gift shop - has seen it become an institution and valued by locals and visitors alike.

It’s a place where you can dine, sip on artisan tipples, pick up a few foodie gifts such as Bakewell pudding, or souvenirs and browse the museum-esque walls filled with artefacts.

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Effectively blending heritage with modernism is no mean feat.

Nothing appears impossible for dynamic duo owners Colin and Alison Hall.

The Cupola project which has been 15 years in the making has seen The Halls overcome pandemic-induced delays and planning complications.

Following final planning approval in 2017, it opened in 2024.

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It has been a labour of love for the dedicated couple who continue to work hard to champion the rich Peak District heritage.

It is based on the site of the former Lords Cupola smelting mill, a process used to obtain pure metal by applying extreme heat.

It played a key role in lead production in the 18th century.

Fast forward three centuries and today The Cupola gives a hat-tip to the past by using traditional flame-cooked techniques.

This includes a delicious griddled breakfast, flame-grilled dishes and wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas.

It is Derbyshire’s bistro dining at its finest, having scooped the prestigious best new business silver award, recognising outstanding contributions to tourism in the Peak District National Park.

We caught up with Colin at The Cupola. Here is what he had to say about the venue, what this means for Stoney Middleton and why everyone should visit.

Location: The Cupola Visitor Centre & Kitchen, The Dale, Stoney Middleton, Hope Valley S32 4TF

For more information click here: thecupola.uk