If you have been exploring the Matlock area and are ready to put your feet up for a while then a warm welcome and an open fire awaits you at The Old Poet’s Corner. The Old Poet’s Corner (OPC) is located in the village of Ashover (map), which sits in the valley of the River Amber about half way between Chesterfield and Matlock. It is reputed to be one of the prettiest villages in Derbyshire. The village has a 15th Century church, and won the Calor Village of the Year competition in 2005. It is said that the village is home to a couple of ghosts, including the Laughing Cavalier, and also that arrows for the Battle of Agincourt were made here.
Voted East Midlands Pub of the Year 2015, The Old Poet’s Corner is a lovely pub, full of old world charm. (streetview) The staff are friendly and the warmth of their welcome for both us and Hoover was outdone only by the heat being thrown out by the log burner, which was burning brightly. The pub was toasty and warm inside, which was particularly welcome as it was below freezing on the evening we visited. Added to that the Christmas decorations were up, so the atmosphere was perfect for a cosy night in!
We visited the pub for supper, and found that they have an extensive menu, which offers plenty of choice. I chose the stew & herb dumplings….delicious, and perfect winter fodder. The pub also has bed & breakfast rooms and a holiday cottage, all of which are dog friendly. The pub is also very well known for it’s wide selection of beers & ciders – including some home brew – it’s beer festivals, and it’s live music nights.
I would recommend The Old Poet’s Corner to anyone, particularly those with their four-legged friends, looking for a tasty meal, and a warm welcome, in a proper pub. The pub also has a handful of local walks (walks) listed on their website.
