If you think Bakewell is just about tarts — think again! This picture-perfect Peak District National Park town is bursting with brilliant pubs, local ales, roaring fires, and beer gardens with views so good you’ll forget your pint’s gone warm. Whether you’re joining us on a Peak District Pub Tours trip or just exploring, here’s your insider’s guide to Bakewell’s best pubs and experiences.
The Rutland Arms
📍 rutlandarmsbakewell.co.uk
A Georgian gem right in the heart of Bakewell — once host to local legends and perched on the town square. Expect cosy lounges, log fires, and fine ales. Their Sunday roast? Legendary.
Why stop here: It has heritage, classy ambiance and works well for groups who want something a bit elevated yet pub-friendly.
Tip: Use this as an early or ‘first major stop’ on your tour; it sets the tone.
The Manners
📍 themannersbakewell.co.uk
This dog-friendly beauty offers local beers (including from nearby breweries) and a fabulous beer garden. Great food, great people, great vibes.
Why stop here: A large outdoor space means your coach group can spread out, relax, chat and enjoy the fresh air.
Tip: Schedule this for when the sun’s out — beer garden time! Also good for a second or third stop when the group has warmed up.
The Joiners Arms
📍 joinersarmsbakewell.com
Small but mighty — a quirky spot for craft beer lovers. Expect curated ales, a relaxed vibe, and something a little different from the standard pub fare.
Why stop here: Adds variety to your tour; not just the “same old pub”. Perfect for craft beer fans in your group.
Tip: Use this as an optional extra stop for those who want something a bit more off-beat.
The Packhorse Inn
📍 packhorselongstone.co.uk
Just outside Bakewell in Little Longstone — this one’s a scenic countryside stop, perfect for mixing in a nature break.
Why stop here: Countryside setting gives your tour a “Peak District feel” — fresh air, views, beer garden.
Tip: Give this a longer stop time (60-90 mins) so people can walk a little or just relax outside.
The Ashford Arms
📍 theashfordarms.com
A historic pub in the lovely village of Ashford-in-the-Water. Great food, great ambiance, and beautifully placed in the Peaks.
Why stop here: Ideal for a more leisurely lunch stop or for groups who want to combine food + drink.
Tip: Consider this later in the day when the group may appreciate a proper meal and a more relaxed pace.
Thornbridge Taproom
📍 thornbridgebrewery.co.uk
Not exactly a traditional pub, but a fantastic craft-beer stop. Perfect for beer aficionados and adds a twist to your tour.
Why stop here: Offers something unique beyond your standard pub stops.
Tip: Make it an optional “craft-beer add-on” for smaller group subsets or for the second half of the tour.
Here are some non-pub experiences to dial up the fun, scenery and local flavour in your tour.
No trip to Bakewell is complete without trying the town’s famous tart/pudding.
Tour tip: Schedule a quick stop (10-15 mins) so the group can pick up tarts/puddings for later.
Stroll along the River Wye, admire the stone architecture, and soak in the town vibe.
Tour tip: Use this between two pub stops so the group stretches their legs and enjoys the scenery.
This trail offers scenic walking/cycling — a brilliant complement to a pub tour.
Tour tip: Offer a short optional leg here (20-30 mins) to mix activity with drinking.
Just outside Bakewell — a bigger stop, perfect for groups who want a fuller day out.
Tour tip: Make this a “premium” option: visit house/gardens, then pub later.
Bakewell’s market scene adds charm and local flavour.
Tour tip: If you arrive early, give 20-30 mins before the first pub stop for wandering the market.
Beer gardens: The Manners and Packhorse are especially photogenic.
Interiors: The Rutland Arms and Ashford Arms ooze charm.
Countryside shots: Use the route to/from Packhorse or Monsal Head for “cheers with a view” moments.
Group shots: At each stop, allocate 5 minutes for a group photo — beer in hand, smiles all around.
That’s where Peak District Pub Tours comes in! We’ll whisk you and your friends around Bakewell’s best pubs in style — no maps, no taxis, no worries. Choose a minibus or coach, pick your pace, and we’ll craft a route full of charm, cheers, and countryside views.
