The Peacock at Rowsley

Imagine yourself as Lord or Lady of the Manor in this late 17th century manor house. A hotel since the 1830s and part of the Haddon Estate, the Peacock at Rowsley is owned by Lord and Lady Edward Manners who live at nearby Haddon Hall.This beautiful period building sits in the Peak District National Park, and guests will find themselves surrounded by antique furnishings - they may even find themselves luxuriating in a four-poster bed.

Lovers of the great outdoors will truly appreciate the hotel’s location, and the opportunities the area affords for an active break. Guests can immerse themselves in the history of the Peak District with exclusive guided tours and discounted admission to neighbouring Haddon Hall and Chatsworth House.

For food lovers, the restaurant team has been the proud bearer of three AA rosettes – the top 10% in the country – for a number of years, and hospitality is a big part of the hotel’s offering, with the latest AA inspection noting: “Hospitality was a perfect example of charming, attentive and friendly customer engagement, a memorable aspect of the stay.’’ Unsurprisingly, the Peacock at Rowsley holds 4 silver AA stars.

The Peacock at Rowsley is a fabulous destination for an active break, surrounded as it is by the stunning scenery of the Peak District. Guests don’t have to go far to enjoy the outdoors, as the hotel boasts a wonderful river-fronted garden - the perfect spot to relax after a day exploring the National Park.

And there’s more to enjoy simply by walking from the front door, with a hand-picked selection of circular walks that offer guests the chance to enjoy some of the best countryside that Derbyshire has to offer. If you prefer getting around on two wheels you’ll discover some famous cycling routes nearby, plus guests can take advantage of a discount on cycle hire from Hassop Station. Don’t miss the Monsal Trail, a traffic-free 8.5-mile stretch of railway line between Bakewell and Blackwell Junction near Buxton, where cyclists can find themselves pedalling through old railway tunnels and pausing to take in some spectacular views.

Golfers can avail themselves of free temporary membership and complimentary green fees at the nearby Bakewell Golf Club. The challenging golf course is just a few minutes’ drive from the hotel and commands striking views across the Derbyshire countryside.

Anglers, meanwhile, will find themselves spoilt for choice. Four rivers run through the Haddon Estate, providing more than 15 miles of fishing. None of them are stocked, so all fish are wild. In fact the Derbyshire Wye is the only river in the country with wild rainbow trout.

Head Chef Dan Smith is passionate about seasonal, high-quality ingredients, locally sourced and. where possible, serves truly local ingredients from the Peak District, including organically-reared beef and lamb from the Haddon Estate.

The hotel also stocks Miller Harris toiletries,which “strive to use natural ingredients (which are all ethically and sustainably sourced)’’. All Miller Harris products are vegan, free from phthalates, artificial colourants, parabens and formaldehydes. SLS and SLES free.