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A little more about us

We’d love to welcome you to The Ashford Arms. Here’s a few reasons why…

Book table

Locally sourced

It’s dead easy to make our dishes delicious – it’s all in the highest quality locally sourced ingredients. We’re proud to support local farms, heritage brewers and artisan producers who put their love, heart and soul into their meat, veg, fruit, beer, spirits, coffee and so much more. We also support local craftspeople in our furnishing, to ensure we deliver a sustainable experience that supports our local Peak District economy.

Loads to see

We’re perfectly positioned in the beautiful beating heart of Ashford in the Water, a picturesque village famous for the much-photographed medieval Sheepwash Bridge. Hike along the River Wye, or head to the Monsal Head viewpoint for striking views. We’re only 2 miles from Bakewell and a short journey away from famous local landmarks like Chatsworth House and the Thornbridge Estate. You might also wish to visit our sister venues; The George at Hathersage and The Maynard in Grindleford.

A bit of history

Ashford in the Water is one of the Peak District’s most delightful chocolate box villages. Mentioned as a Royal Manor and called ‘Aisseford’ in the Domesday book, the old name is quite befitting, meaning ‘the ford of the ash.’ A stone’s throw from the famous medieval Sheepwash Bridge – said to be the most photographed bridge in England. Nestling on the east bank of the river Wye, the crystal-clear waters hold visitors entranced to this day, the bridge being a great vantage point for watching the huge rainbow trout below. It’s not hard to imagine the packhorse bridge as it was in the old days, and it is only until recently that sheep were washed here prior to shearing. The lambs would be kept on one side of the river within a stone walled pen while the mothers would be thrown in at the other side, swimming across to get to their offspring plus ensuring a good wash as they swam.

In the 12th century, the Manor of Ashford was kindly granted by King John to the son of a Welsh Prince. His name was Griffin, son of Wenunwyn. It was then acquired by the powerful Neville family in 1408 until 1550 when the village passed to the Cavendish family of the Chatsworth estate. The Duke and Duchess of Devonshire used to live here before moving to Chatsworth in the 16th century. It was finally sold off in the 1950s to pay for death duties.

Meet the team

We put people over profits, every time and care greatly about our team. They’re so passionate about hospitality and they’re proud of their home in The Peak District. Nothing is too much trouble with our impeccable service from welcoming, down-to-earth genuinely lovely people whom we are proud to call our teammates.

“A delightful haven tucked away in the beating heart of The Peak District”

Rob Hattersley

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