Peacock, Matlock

More or less the same experience as will. Not really a pub - the sign offers fly fishing - but worth experiencing! No till at the bar and I paid my £5.40 (!!!) for a Peak Ales Swift Nick to the receptionist. The beer was in superb condition - even more surprising as it was a Tuesday lunch time and every one else was on G&T. Can't see how they get the turnover to keep it so fresh. Visit blogged at - http://bit.ly/2UjcWB4

This is a delightful old building which now functions as a posh hotel. I approached the reception desk and enquired whether there was a public bar: it is just to the left, along a short corridor. After the modern and sterile foyer, the bar was a revelation (see photos): old stone walls, a fireplace and a beautiful bar counter. On the bar were two hand pum ps with beers from local Peak Ales. I had a half of their Bakewell Best Bitter, which was in reasonable condition. I proffered a ten pound note but the young man who had served me said that there was not a till in the bar and I should pay at the reception desk on my way out. My half of ordinary 4.2% beer set me back all of £2.65, but maybe it was worth it for the experience of the wonderful public bar. Not sure I'd want to do it again though.