Hodgkinson's Hotel & Restaurant

Its sheltered location, tucked away on the corner of South Parade and Waterloo Road in Matlock Bath, means it’s easy to miss Hodgkinson’s Hotel & Restaurant. Nevertheless, after pushing open the heavy front door and being shown to the dining room, you’ll be captivated by the historic charm and first-class dining that awaits. Housed in an elegant Grade II listed Georgian townhouse, Hodgkinson’s welcomes you at the entrance with its curios and antiques. Once inside, Minton floor tiles, brass wall lights and an antique cash register are among the many treasures sure to catch your eye. The small but intimate dining room once housed the public bar, and still features a magnificent glass-panelled mahogany servery, which was once used to dispense beer to spa visitors and locals. Now this elegant space houses a mixture of small tables, carefully placed to take full advantage of the quirky interior. Your table is yours for the night, as Hodgkinson’s only operates one sitting per evening. The menu features classic British ingredients, all locally sourced and freshly prepared to create a select and interesting array of homemade dishes. To start, why not try the likes of charred mackerel with beetroot risotto and horseradish cream? Seasonal mains like the Barnsley lamb chop with a potato and feta bon bon, glazed Chantenay carrots and rosemary gravy are perfect to follow, while desserts such as rhubarb semifreddo with a caramel cookie crumb and summer fruit coulis provide the ultimate finale. An extensive wine list also offers the perfect accompaniment to your meal, giving you the opportunity to fully absorb the fantastic flavours from each mouthful. However, do not be mistaken in thinking that it’s only the evening menu that demonstrates excellence; Hodgkinson’s has also received many accolades for its large, delicious breakfasts and Sunday roasts. Sunday lunch is by reservation for groups of four or more and you can select your own roast for your party. Small and charming, Hodgkinson’s epitomises all that is good about old-fashioned hospitality, within a truly unique setting.