We recently stopped by The Barrel Inn in Bretton, nestled high in the Peak District, and it was nothing short of outstanding. The setting alone is worth the visit — perched atop a hill with sweeping, panoramic views that stretch across the landscape. It’s the kind of place where the scenery makes the food taste even better (not that it needed any help).
For mains, we had a steak pie and a lamb’s liver dish. The steak pie was the real deal – not just a stew with a puff pastry hat, but a proper full pie, encased in golden, hot-made pastry reminiscent of a pork pie, but far more indulgent. The lamb’s liver came with a perfectly crisp bubble and squeak croquette, and both dishes were brought together by sauces that were next-level – rich, deep, and packed with flavour.
We shared a dessert: a blackberry, peanut butter and candied fruit tart, topped with a crunchy almond crust and served with clotted cream. It was sweet, nutty, sharp, and utterly satisfying – a great twist on a classic tart that rounded off the meal perfectly.
It’s the kind of place that combines warm, country-pub charm with seriously good food. We’d go back in a heartbeat – for the food, the view, and the atmosphere.
Highly recommended.
