Nestled in the picturesque village of Ellastone near Ashbourne, The Duncombe Arms stands out as a smart country pub with a contemporary edge. Set along Main Road in Staffordshire, this establishment is a favorite for visitors seeking a tranquil escape with exceptional food and a welcoming atmosphere. Known for its Modern European cuisine, the pub offers a cozy yet stylish environment with a charming lawned garden perfect for outdoor seating on sunny days.
The Duncombe Arms prides itself on serving dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, emphasizing quality and flavor. Guests rave about the cheese soufflé, delicate plaice with brown shrimp and samphire, and delightful desserts such as apple tart with caramel and orange ice cream. The wine list complements the menu perfectly, with many visitors enjoying prosecco to accompany their meals. The pub’s friendly and attentive staff ensure every guest feels special, going above and beyond to create memorable experiences, whether it's a New Year’s Eve reunion or a casual countryside lunch.
Beyond the excellent food and drink, The Duncombe Arms offers well-appointed rooms such as the deluxe doubles that provide warmth, spaciousness, and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. The Walnut Rooms showcase thoughtful design perfect for relaxing stays. Guests appreciate the peaceful location near lovely walking routes, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and travelers seeking a serene break from city life.
Positive community sentiment highlights The Duncombe Arms for its warm atmosphere, attentive service, and high-quality locally sourced cuisine. Many guests recommend it for its cozy setting, friendly staff, and exceptional food offerings. Accolades such as the MICHELIN Bib Gourmand 2023 and inclusion in the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs list underscore its reputation as a top dining destination in the region.
- What are the opening hours of The Duncombe Arms? Monday to Saturday: Lunch 12:00–14:30, Dinner 18:00–20:30; Sunday: Lunch 12:00–15:00, Dinner 18:00–19:30.
- Is The Duncombe Arms wheelchair accessible? Yes, the pub is wheelchair accessible.
- Does The Duncombe Arms accept credit cards? Yes, they accept American Express, Mastercard, and Visa.
- Is there parking available at The Duncombe Arms? Yes, private parking is available.
- Does The Duncombe Arms offer gluten-free options? Yes, they offer gluten-free options on their menu.
Nestled in the tranquil village of Ellastone near Ashbourne, Derbyshire, The Duncombe Arms stands as a captivating example of a 19th-century English country pub with a charming legacy. Originally established as an inn in 1850, this historic venue has evolved gracefully over the decades to become a celebrated destination for visitors seeking a blend of traditional hospitality and modern European cuisine.
The Duncombe Arms began its journey in 1850 as a modest inn, serving locals and travelers alike along the peaceful Main Road of Ellastone. For over a century and a half, it has been a cornerstone of the community, embodying the rustic spirit and countryside charm of Staffordshire. Its original role as an inn meant providing comfort and nourishment to wayfarers, a legacy that continues to this day.
In March 2012, a significant transformation occurred when Johnny and Laura Greenall took the helm and breathed new life into The Duncombe Arms. Their vision elevated the establishment from a traditional inn into a smart country pub with a contemporary edge, focusing on Modern European cuisine served in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. This careful renovation preserved the historic character while introducing stylish comforts and culinary excellence that attracted both locals and tourists.
The Duncombe Arms' dedication to quality and service earned it prestigious recognition, including the MICHELIN Bib Gourmand award in 2023, highlighting its status as a destination for exceptional food at good value. Additionally, it was featured in the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs, cementing its reputation among the finest gastropubs in the UK.
Today, guests are drawn by The Duncombe Arms' combination of historic charm and contemporary flair. Visitors can enjoy a refined menu featuring dishes like delicate cheese soufflés and fresh local seafood while soaking in views of the surrounding countryside. The pub’s beautifully designed rooms, tranquil garden, and attentive service create an inviting retreat for foodies, travelers, and locals seeking a memorable dining and lodging experience.
- 1850: Original inn established on Main Road, Ellastone.
- 2012: Reopened and revitalized by Johnny and Laura Greenall, blending tradition with modern cuisine.
- 2023: Awarded the prestigious MICHELIN Bib Gourmand, recognizing excellent value and quality.
Nestled along the scenic Main Road in Ellastone, near Ashbourne in Staffordshire, The Duncombe Arms offers visitors a delightful countryside retreat where modern comforts blend seamlessly with traditional charm. This smart country pub boasts a warm, cozy setting complemented by attentive and friendly staff who strive to create a memorable dining and lodging experience.
Warm atmosphere combined with attentive, friendly service makes guests feel instantly at home. The staff’s dedication to hospitality often earns glowing praise for making special occasions, like New Year's Eve reunions, truly memorable. The pub is also dog friendly , welcoming four-legged companions without compromising comfort or cleanliness. Wheelchair accessibility further ensures all visitors can enjoy the facilities with ease.
The Duncombe Arms features an award-winning chef who crafts a menu emphasizing high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Guests can expect a refined selection of Modern European dishes that consistently earn praise for their exceptional flavor and presentation. Whether enjoying a delicate cheese soufflé, fresh plaice with buttered shrimp and samphire, or a luscious apple tart with caramel and orange ice cream, diners are treated to a gourmet experience in a relaxed environment.
Breakfast service is highly recommended, featuring delicious options like smoked salmon and scrambled eggs. However, some guests find the requirement to book a 15-minute arrival slot for breakfast a bit restrictive, limiting morning flexibility.
The beautifully designed Walnut Rooms provide spacious, warm accommodations with scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Guests appreciate the cozy beds and tasteful decor, though some suggest improvements like better pillows for enhanced comfort. Private dining options are also available, catering to groups or intimate gatherings.
Situated in a tranquil rural setting with access to picturesque walking routes, The Duncombe Arms offers a peaceful getaway for nature lovers and food enthusiasts alike. Its lawned garden provides an ideal spot for outdoor seating, letting diners enjoy their meals amid fresh air and scenic views. The location is perfect for those seeking a countryside escape while still having convenient parking options, including free street and lot parking, although parking spaces can be somewhat limited during busy periods.
- Limited parking space can cause inconvenience during peak times, so planning ahead is advisable.
- Service charge included on bills may not suit all guests who prefer to tip independently.
The Duncombe Arms stands out as a charming, modern country pub that excels in delivering exquisite locally sourced cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere. Its combination of a cozy setting, attentive service, and beautiful rural location make it an excellent choice for foodies, walkers, and travelers seeking quality accommodations. While minor considerations such as parking limitations and breakfast scheduling exist, the overall experience is enriched by the pub’s dedication to hospitality and culinary excellence, making it a noteworthy destination in the Ashbourne area.
