Wheatsheaf, Baslow by Marston's Inns

This was our third visit this year, and we’ll probably be back again soon. It’s our go-to for food after a long walk in the Peak District or at Chatsworth. The food is really nice and good value, and the friendly staff make it a pleasure to visit. Steph & Chloe gave us excellent service, and were friendly and helpful. Looking forward to next time! 😊

Our waitress was friendly and apologized when we told her we were unhappy. She checked on us 15-20 minutes later and saw that our plates were still half full. The manager offered either a free dessert or a discount, and we chose the 20% discount. But the meal cost £34, and most of it was cold. I had a steak pie and my wife had a Sunday roast. Only the pie and gravy were hot; her meat was thin and anaemic, and the small amount of vegetables was shrivelled and cold. It seemed clearly microwaved rather than fresh. The food came out suspiciously fast. Before that, things were chaotic. Despite our reservation, a rude manager put us at a tiny, cramped table by the entrance, with barely room for our dog. We moved to a larger table after the group beside us left, then the manager said we had to leave by 4:15 PM, even though our email confirmation said 4:30 PM. We felt rushed and barely had time to eat. We also overheard the manager telling a staff member to keep serving Pepsi after it had been confirmed flat, which seemed like a disregard for customers. The website suggested a traditional country pub with home-cooked food, but it felt more like a grotty, dirty canteen. One of our worst dining experiences. We had a much better time at another country pub just outside Castleton on the way home. Avoid the Wheatsheaf like the plague.

Booking was easy, and the staff and other customers were friendly and welcoming. There was a lovely atmosphere, and service was attentive without being overbearing, lol. For a table of 7, the wait was what you’d expect for such lovely, well-cooked food. Good quality at a good price. We’ll definitely come again when the weather’s better so we can enjoy the garden.

We came in for lunch, all 8 of us, to celebrate my birthday after visiting the chatsworth xmas markets. The staff greeted us warmly and showed us to a cosy table. The food and service were both great, and we’ll definitely return. Thank you!