Rafters at Riverside House Hotel offers refined, relaxed dining in one of Derbyshire’s prettiest village settings. Set behind historic stone walls in Ashford-in-the-Water, this Grade II listed hotel has beautiful gardens running beside the River Wye, creating a calm and comfortable place to eat.
The 2 AA Rosette restaurant makes the most of its setting, with large windows, tasteful décor and a dining room that feels polished without being stiff. The cooking leans modern British, with Head Chef Kyle Leek-Spooner focusing on sustainability and strong local produce.
Great Food Club’s Derbyshire Editor Steph visited and found the food carefully prepared and well executed. Steak tartare arrived looking like art on a plate and tasted just as good, while the duck and beetroot salad showed real depth of flavour. Fillet steak and pork loin followed, both generous, balanced and skilfully cooked.
Drinks are taken seriously too, with a strong wine list, local beers, cocktails and Rafters’ own lager. Rafters feels luxurious but comfortable – a memorable Derbyshire dining experience.
