The Devonshire Arms at Pilsley, Peak District

Pilsley is a quiet village but well-placed for exploring the Peak District's main attractions and is linked by bus to Bakewell, Sheffield and Chesterfield. There's good walking countryside all around; for a pleasant evening stroll, follow the lane that leads from the pub to Scouts Wood, carpeted with bluebells in spring. Chatsworth House, one of England's finest stately homes, set amid magnificent gardens and parkland, is just a five-minute drive (or half-hour walk) away.

By car: the pub is 40 mins from Sheffield, 1 hour 25 mins from Manchester and 3 hours 30 mins from London. There is free parking on-site.

By train: London St Pancras to Chesterfield takes 1 hour 45 mins. The hotel is a 25-minute taxi ride from the station. Book trains to Chesterfield.

On the outside, the inn is all chocolate-box charm, with its slate roof, flower-filled window boxes and Virginia creeper growing over the weathered stone walls. There's plenty of rustic charm in the bar as well (wooden beams, stone fireplace, wallpaper prints of stags and wading birds), all happily combined with bang-up-to-date creature comforts.

Service is polite and although there isn't much in the way of facilities you'll find a range of local tourist information leaflets on display and staff will print out details of nearby walks on request. The car park has Tesla electric car-charging points that are free for guests to use.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Garden
• Pet-friendly
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

You get a choice of styles here: the seven bedrooms above the inn blend cosy and contemporary, with neutral shades and giant padded headboards, while annexe rooms have a grander, country-luxe look, with four-poster beds, tartan carpets and heavy floral curtains. All rooms have smart modern bathrooms with thick white towels and Temple Spa toiletries.

Room types: Petite Double, Classic Double, Deluxe Rooms, Four-Poster Farmhouse Rooms

Key amenities: ensuite with walk-in or shower over bath, free toiletries, hairdryer, TV, tea and coffee facilities, free Wi-Fi

The kitchen caters well for guests returning after a day's walking in the Peak District, with generous portions of hearty food including classic pub dishes such as fish and chips or pie of the day. You can expect to see Chatsworth-reared meats featured on the menu, but there are also vegetarian and vegan options.

The Inn: produce from the Chatsworth Estate, local cask ales, hearty pub food, sandwiches. Open every day for lunch and dinner. Mains from £14.95.