Rafters at Riverside House

Rafters at Riverside House – Rafters at Riverside House

Overview

Tucked into the heart of Ashford-in-the-Water, just outside Bakewell in the Peak District, Rafters at Riverside House is where modern fine dining meets the timeless comforts of a country house hotel. This boutique destination is ideal for food-focused escapes, romantic getaways and anyone seeking easy access to the region's dramatic walking and cycling routes. With its riverside setting, blend of contemporary and classic style, and serious culinary ambition, Rafters at Riverside House is a well-placed base for a gourmet weekend in Derbyshire.

Eat

In the heart of the property, Rafters at Riverside House restaurant is a showcase for inventive, flavour-driven British cooking guided by chef John Whelan and his team. The kitchen leans into the lush larder of Derbyshire, celebrating the best local produce with a sustainable approach that keeps everything seasonal and imaginative. You might begin with delicate starters showcasing the kitchen's lightness of touch, then progress to mains marrying robust flavours — think prime meats and the freshest garden vegetables, brought together with modern British finesse.

The dining room is relaxed but elegant, and the attentive staff make guests feel equally welcome for a celebratory tasting menu or an unhurried Sunday lunch. Alongside the main menu, afternoon tea is served in suitably picturesque style, with featherlight pastries and inspired sweet creations — perfect after a day in the Peak District air. The restaurant's wine list is carefully curated to match the kitchen’s ambitions, ensuring dining at Rafters is truly memorable.

Sleep

Rafters at Riverside House is more than a meal ticket — it’s a small hotel with rooms designed for lingering and unwinding. The bedrooms blend contemporary comforts with nods to the area's heritage, using calming colours, modern fabrics, and well-chosen art. Large, inviting beds and elegant bathrooms bring a restful, cocooning feel, ideal after a day out on the Derbyshire hills or an evening at the table. Some rooms offer views of the garden or the river, rounding out the sense of retreat. This is a spot for couples, small groups, and anyone who prizes tranquillity alongside top-notch hospitality.

Retreat

With private gardens fringing the River Wye, guests can take a riverside stroll straight from the front door or sink into an armchair with the day’s paper in one of the inviting lounges. The surrounding Peak District National Park tempts with endless trails — the Monsal Trail is moments away, and dramatic Bakewell is under 2 miles, or roughly a 5-minute drive. Iconic attractions such as Chatsworth House and Haddon Hall are both within easy reach, making Rafters an excellent launchpad for walkers, history buffs, and those wanting to combine indulgence with adventure. The property has on-site parking, and the nearest train station at Chesterfield is about a 25-minute drive away, making short breaks from Sheffield, Manchester or Nottingham extremely feasible.