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Summary of reviewsThe Duke of Wellington offers a charming and picturesque retreat nestled amidst stunning landscapes, garnering praise for its scenic location ideal for nature enthusiasts and pet owners. Its proximity to the Peak District and the town of Matlock provides visitors with ample opportunities for outdoor exploration, despite the challenging steep hill leading to town. Guests appreciate the warm, friendly atmosphere and the venue's pet-friendly policies, adding to its appeal as a tranquil escape.
The dining experience at the Duke of Wellington is another highlight, with guests frequently commending the quality and value of both breakfast and dinner offerings. The hearty English breakfast, crafted by a notably friendly chef, consistently leaves guests satisfied, while the dinner menu caters to diverse dietary preferences, including vegan options. Although service times and availability occasionally present minor issues, the overall dining experience is deemed excellent.
Accommodations at the Duke of Wellington combine comfort and charm, with rooms located in converted stables and barns well-suited for families and pet owners. Cleanliness and comfort are recurring positive themes, with guests appreciating the cozy, quiet ambiance and the attentive, hospitable staff. While some rooms show signs of wear and would benefit from updates in decor, these issues hardly detract from the overall positive experience.
The staff plays a crucial role in enhancing guests' stays, consistently receiving high praise for their friendliness, attentiveness, and helpfulness. Their dedication contributes significantly to the inviting environment, which is further enriched by the Duke of Wellington's rich historical character and unique layout.
For those traveling with dogs, the pub is a haven, offering exceptional dog-friendly amenities and a welcoming atmosphere. Dogs enjoy the spacious accommodations and freedom to roam in the pub's outdoor areas, and the staff's extra efforts to accommodate canine guests stand out.
Overall, the Duke of Wellington is celebrated for its picturesque setting, exceptional dining, comfortable accommodations, and warm service, making it a delightful destination for travelers and their pets seeking a memorable experience in central England. Show more
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Categories
Dog Friendly Inn
The Duke Of Wellington is an inn known to be pet-friendly. Being an inn, it likely offers a more casual and welcoming atmosphere for guests with dogs, and its location in South Normanton provides easy access to walking routes.
Inn with Free Wi-Fi
The Duke Of Wellington inn offers free Wi-Fi and comfortable, well-appointed rooms. It also features a restaurant and bar, providing multiple options for dining and relaxation, making it convenient for guests to stay connected.
Small Inn
The Duke Of Wellington offers a traditional inn experience with a friendly atmosphere.
3-Star Inn
This cosy 19th-century country inn offers comfortable en suite rooms, good beers, and great-value food. It's rich in original character and traditional charm. There is also a children's playground.
Historic Inn
Cheap Inn
Room Types
Family RoomEach room has satellite TV, an en suite bathroom a double bed and 2 bunk beds. Please note the bunk beds can only accommodate children 14 years and younger.
Standard Double RoomEach room has satellite TV and an en suite bathroom.
Only room numbers 6, 7 and 8 can accommodate pets.
Standard Twin RoomThis twin room features a tea and coffee maker and a TV with cable channels. The unit has 2 beds.
Guest Reviews
7.5
Good
Location
Nestled amidst picturesque landscapes, the Duke of Wellington boasts a stunning location ideal for nature enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility. The scenic views and beautiful setting make it a prime spot for lovely walks and outdoor exploration, including the nearby Peak District and charming town of Matlock. With convenient transport links, such as a bus stop right outside the pub, it provides easy access to the town center and surrounding areas, although the steep hill leading to the town may be challenging for some.
This charming pub offers a peaceful retreat, with ample parking and a warm, friendly atmosphere. The location is perfect for those traveling through central England or visiting Matlock, with the added benefit of being close to local attractions and countryside walks. Additionally, the Duke of Wellington is pet-friendly, making it an inviting option for guests with dogs. Despite the hilly terrain, the combination of the inn's character and the welcoming staff ensures a pleasant stay for visitors seeking a convenient and picturesque escape.
Breakfast
The breakfast experience at the Duke Of Wellington largely impresses its guests with its quality and value for money. Many visitors rave about the hearty, delicious, and well-cooked English breakfast offered, which often leaves them feeling satisfied and ready for the day. With offerings described as lovely, superb, and exceptional, the breakfast includes fresh produce and is considered a good deal at £10. The friendly and accommodating staff, especially Ian the chef, contribute to the homely atmosphere, making the experience even more pleasant.
While most remarks are positive, some reviews mention limitations in variety, noting that the standard full English breakfast does not come with alternatives. There are occasional reports of disorganization and delayed service, with breakfast sometimes taking longer than expected to arrive. The timing of breakfast, often starting late at 9:30 am, has been a point of contention for those with early schedules. Despite these minor drawbacks, the breakfast's quality and agreeable pricing make it one of the highlights of staying at this venue.
Dinner
At the Duke Of Wellington, guests consistently praise the quality of the meals offered, with many highlighting both dinner and breakfast as exceptional experiences. The pub's menu, often described as featuring typical pub grub, is well-received for its good variety and ability to cater to a range of dietary preferences, including vegan options. The atmosphere is complemented by friendly staff, enhancing the overall dining experience. While the food receives commendations for being tasty, well-presented, and plentiful, some logistical issues such as restrictive serving times and occasional availability problems are noted. Despite these minor drawbacks, the value for money remains a consistent positive, with food and drinks being reasonably priced and many finding the dinner deals to be excellent. Overall, the Duke Of Wellington provides an enjoyable dining setting, making it a favorable choice for those seeking good food in a welcoming pub environment.
Rooms
Nestled amidst a scenic location, Duke Of Wellington offers a unique blend of comfortable accommodations housed in charmingly converted stables and barns. The rooms frequently receive praise for their cleanliness and comfort, catering to both families and pet owners with ample spaciousness and en-suite facilities. The family rooms are particularly noteworthy, offering sizable main rooms with extra sleeping spaces for children. Guests appreciate the cozy atmosphere and common remarks include the rooms being warm and quiet, enhancing the overall restful experience.
The staff is often highlighted for their friendliness and helpfulness, adding to the inviting ambiance of the pub, which features a delightful courtyard setting with opportunities for outdoor relaxation. Breakfast and meals are lauded for their quality and value, complementing the relaxed and welcoming environment.
However, some rooms show signs of wear and could benefit from updates in decor and furnishings. Guests occasionally mention issues with heating on arrival and some minor cleanliness concerns, but overall, these do little to detract from the positive aspects of the accommodation. Despite some imperfections, the Duke Of Wellington remains a favored stopover offering privacy and a quiet retreat, combined with the promise of a restful night’s sleep and good hospitality.
Beds
The beds at the Duke of Wellington offer a mixed experience, but there are noteworthy positive aspects noted in guest reviews. Many guests have found the beds to be very comfortable, praising them for providing a restful night's sleep. The bedding and towels are consistently noted as new and of good quality, adding to the overall comfort. The rooms often feature lovely comfy beds, complemented by snuggly fleeces and a warm atmosphere, creating a welcoming environment for relaxation. For those seeking comfort, the mattresses in several rooms have been acknowledged as comfortable, contributing to the perception of the hotel as providing reasonable value for the price.
On the flip side, some guests have noted issues such as mattresses feeling old, lumpy, or lacking sufficient support. There have been comments about beds being tight for two people, and specific rooms reportedly have mattresses that need replacing due to discomfort or the presence of springs. Despite these drawbacks, the hotel maintains a reputation for clean accommodations and generally offers a comfortable stay at a reasonable price. While some mattresses could benefit from an upgrade, the overall experience seems to be enhanced by the location, supportive bedding, and cozy room settings.
Cleanliness
Duke Of Wellington offers a mixed accommodation experience, with notable aspects of cleanliness being a recurring theme throughout guest reviews. Overall, many guests found the rooms to be clean, and spotlessly clean linen and towels are frequently mentioned as positive features. Comfortable beds and adequate facilities make for a pleasant and cozy stay, with the old stable block accommodation adding a quaint charm. The warm atmosphere is complemented by the friendly and welcoming staff, who contribute to a positive guest experience.
However, some areas may require attention. Several reviews mention that the rooms appear tired and in need of updating, with specific attention needed for bathrooms, which sometimes suffer from dampness and mould. While some guests praised the immaculate cleanliness, others encountered cobwebs, dust, and even unpleasant odors, suggesting inconsistencies in room upkeep. Furthermore, efforts at cleaning could be improved with better attention to detail.
In summary, stay at Duke Of Wellington for its friendly service and comfortable, clean bedding, but be aware that some areas might be due for a refresh.
Staff
The Duke Of Wellington consistently receives praise for its exceptionally friendly and helpful staff, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for its guests. Visitors frequently describe the staff as attentive and accommodating, ensuring that needs are met promptly and efficiently. From the knowledgeable young barmaid to the amiable owner and the brilliant chef, each member of the team contributes to the hotel's inviting environment. The staff's remarkable hospitality extends beyond service, with many guests noting their helpful advice regarding local attractions and activities. Whether it's enjoying delicious meals, including the standout vegan breakfast, or simply relaxing in the quaint courtyard, guests often feel right at home due to the staff's warm demeanor. Overall, the consistently high marks for friendliness and helpfulness make the Duke Of Wellington a delightful place to stay, complementing its comfortable accommodations and scenic surroundings.
3 Star
Duke of Wellington offers good value for those looking for a budget-friendly stay. Many found the food and service to be fantastic, which adds to the overall appeal of the accommodation. While rooms are described as adequate, they are straightforward, with some guests noting that a refresh of the décor might enhance the experience. A small, handy info sheet detailing heating and shower operations could improve guest convenience. Though nothing overtly negative was highlighted, elements like a hard bed or traces of damp do affect some stays. The property could benefit from a deeper clean and more attention to detail in the restaurant, where improvements in cleanliness could enhance first impressions. As for customer service, while contact numbers are available, some felt that a more personal touch during checkout would be appreciated. Overall, Duke of Wellington is seen as a budget-conscious option that fulfills basic accommodation needs.
Historic
Nestled in a picturesque setting, the Duke of Wellington offers a charming experience that many guests have come to appreciate. The hotel, a beautiful old pub with loads of character, provides a comfortable and enjoyable stay for families. The original layout of the building, including externally accessible rooms, adds a unique touch to the experience. Guests are welcomed into an inviting environment where the hospitality and food are consistently praised for their quality.
The converted stables reflect the establishment's rich history, seamlessly blending tradition with modern comfort. This lovely pub, surrounded by enchanting gardens, embodies the quintessential English pub experience. The beer, food, and attentive staff contribute to the warm and lively atmosphere that defines the Duke of Wellington as a delightful destination.
While some minor issues were noted, such as the condition of the walls and furniture, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive. Visitors find the surroundings and the pub itself to be charming, often describing it as providing the "FULL PACKAGE" of an excellent stay. The Duke of Wellington, known as a Green King establishment, ensures guests leave with fond memories of this lovely old pub and its welcoming ambiance.
Dog Friendly
Nestled in a convenient location with easy access to nearby walks and attractions, Duke Of Wellington stands out as a haven for dog enthusiasts. The establishment shines brightly with its commendable dog-friendly policies that guests consistently praise. Dogs are not only permitted but are warmly welcomed without any extra charges, which adds to the exceptional value for money.
Visitors appreciate the spacious rooms tailored to accommodate both humans and their canine companions, ensuring a comfortable stay. The thoughtful layout, with rooms set apart from the pub, adds an extra layer of convenience for pet owners. Outside, there are lovely sitting areas and ample space, including a patio and a nice grass area, where dogs can roam freely, providing an ideal setting for both relaxation and play.
The welcoming atmosphere extends to the pub and bar areas, where dogs are as much a part of the community as their owners. This inclusive approach is complemented by the staff's friendliness and helpful nature, often going the extra mile like offering dogs their own breakfast, thereby making every four-legged guest feel special.
Accompanying the outstanding pet-friendly amenities, Duke Of Wellington offers a delightful range of services for human guests. Whether it's relishing a delicious meal or engaging in a fun quiz night, the experience is enhanced by the pub's lively environment. Furthermore, the convenience of enjoying a take-away meal onsite adds a thoughtful touch to the guest experience.
Overall, the Duke Of Wellington is highly regarded not just for its exceptional dog-friendly facilities but also for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that leaves both two-legged and four-legged visitors eager to return.
No, Duke Of Wellington doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Duke Of Wellington.
Yes, Duke Of Wellington welcomes dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at Duke Of Wellington.