Emma Killick finds a warm fire, real ale, local sausages and divine scallops at a British foodie favourite – The George.

If you are headed to the Peak District, you’ll already know about the extraordinary walking opportunities. Squeezing through stiles, climbing over dry stone walks, and trudging through sheep-filled fields can build up your appetite.

There’s usually one gorgeous old stone pub per village, but many, while friendly, still have what I call the “old man’s pub” feel to them – multi-coloured carpets, horse brasses and dried flowers that are more dust than flowers. The customers aren’t going for the ambience – they’re going for the real ale. There’s nothing wrong with that, but you can have both if you go to The George in Alstonefield.

About 8 miles from Ashbourne, you reach Alstonefield by following a narrow, steep road, over a quaint bridge that crosses the River Dove. On your left, just after you’ve entered the village is The George. Restored in an honest, loving fashion, the pub has a tiny bar and a roaring fireplace as well as a separate dining room. Beer lovers won’t be disappointed either as the real ale is kept well. Anyway, on to the food: all I can say is yum.

Locally sourced where possible and carefully cooked, the meals are scrumptious – everything from the hearty fare (like the fresh daily soups and the trio of Tissington sausages) to the more delicate items (like the home cured smoked salmon artfully served with caviar and pickled cucumber and the scallops with borlotti bean and chestnut puree) is a treat.

They also have a fabulous farm shop, so beautifully laid out you’ll want to buy everything in it.

The George
www.thegeorgeatalstonefield.com
01335 310205
Open for lunch and dinner everyday, closed afternoons during the week. Farm shop open daily. Check the website for details.