Ashbourne, United Kingdom
The Duncombe Arms
Staffordshire coaching inn
Staffordshire coaching inn
The 1850s pub remains a gathering spot for Moorlands ales and roasts, with airy bedrooms across the lawn.
What it’s good at
Listed
Villagers and ramblers share local cask ales and seasonal dishes in the buzzing taproom.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
Also in Condé Nast Traveler.
The rooms are ten in number, for one thing, plus a freestanding cottage and a converted barn for larger parties or longer stays.
Somewhere quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Dove Valley footpaths start right from the door, and the limestone gorges of Dovedale are a short drive north.
1 of 4
The rooms
Walnut House bedrooms look across the Dove Valley, with botanical wallpaper patterns and views stretching over the woods.
Restaurant
The Duncombe Arms
Seasonal British dishes are served beside brick fireplaces and leather booths, and garden tables look across the Dove Valley.
While keeping the key trappings and spirit of the traditional pub–cozy nooks, a roaring open fire and Merlot-hued rugs warming flagstones–they installed an impressive farm-to-fork ethos.
How it began
Johnny and Laura Greenall bought the derelict inn in 2010, discovering Laura's maiden name on the original 1850s pub sign.
Ashbourne
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.