The Barrel Inn, Hope Valley

A whitewashed stonebuilt pub high on a ridge in the Derbyshire Peak District. On a clear day the view is said to be incredible:on our visit, on a cold but sunny December lunchtime, a slight haze gave the surrounding peaks a wistfully romantic air. Inside, the pub has been opened out, but the internal arrangement gives a sense of privacy to the individual seating areas which face the long bar on the opposite side of the room. A large group of us came in for lunch:service was prompt and cheery. A freehouse; however all the handpumped beers came from the Marston’s stable. I had Pedigree and EPA, both workmanlike and well presented, but hardly challenging. We enjoyed our visit, and the panoramic view would be a bonus in good weather, but there are other pubs I would revisit first, if back in the Peak.

Official site of the Barrel Inn - www.thebarrelinn.co.uk

Official site of the Barrel Inn - www.thebarrelinn.co.uk

The Barrel is in a superb location in the tiny hamlet of Bretton, atop an escarpment overlooking the “plague village” of Eyam in the valley below. This is a food-oriented pub, especially in the evenings when it can be crowded, but there are benches outside for the view, and a covered yard if the evening is chilly. A good stop for refreshment after a day walking on Abney Moor. Green King beers are available, including Abbot and Olde Trip when I last visited in July 2010.