Business Details
14 Years
experience
Award-Winning Country Pub & Dining in Ashbourne
The Duncombe Arms is a family-run country pub with rooms, nestled in the picturesque village of Ellastone on the Staffordshire-Derbyshire border. Established in March 2012 by Johnny and Laura Greenall, our venue combines decades of hospitality expertise with a passion for locally sourced ingredients and historic preservation. Following an extensive renovation, we transformed a neglected 1850s inn into a vibrant hub offering fine-dining quality British cuisine alongside cosy accommodation in Staffordshire countryside. Our team, led by General Manager James Oddy and Head Chef Scott Law, prides itself on seasonal menus featuring produce from local farms, award-winning wine pairings, and a warm atmosphere enhanced by rustic-chic dcor and open fires.Recognised by The Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand and Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastro Pubs, we cater to both loyal locals and visitors seeking exceptional dining, private events, and countryside retreats. Located just three miles from Alton Towers, our property also includes luxury bedrooms at Walnut House, self-catering cottages, and a private dining room for special occasions.
Services
Pub Dining
Luxury Accommodation
Private Dining
Self-Catering Cottages
Wine Tasting Events
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- Award-winning British cuisine with seasonal local ingredients
- Historic 1850s inn restored with modern comforts
- Luxury accommodation in scenic Staffordshire countryside
- Private dining room for exclusive events up to 12 guests
- Recognised by top hospitality guides since 2012
Associations and certifications
- Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand
- The Good Pub Guide
- Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastro Pubs
What people say
Award-winning food
Scenic countryside views
Warm hospitality
Exceptional service
Bib Gourmand recognition
Services
Pub Dining
Our award-winning restaurant serves modern British cuisine using seasonal local ingredients. Menus feature dishes crafted from produce sourced from nearby farms, with daily specials and a legendary Sunday roast. Vegetarian, gluten-free, and children's options available alongside house-made breads and desserts.
Luxury Accommodation
Walnut House offers ten boutique-style bedrooms adjacent to the pub, combining rustic charm with modern comforts. Rooms feature luxury linens, Bamford toiletries, Roberts radios, and countryside views. Two family rooms and pet-friendly options available with advance notice.
Private Dining
Our private dining room accommodates up to twelve guests for special occasions. Featuring original dcor, a log-burning stove, and tailored menus, it's ideal for family celebrations or business meetings with bespoke breakfast, lunch, or dinner service.
Self-Catering Cottages
The Garden Cottage and The Old Barn provide secluded self-catering accommodation for 5-6 people. These restored properties feature fully equipped kitchens, luxury furnishings, and scenic countryside views within the Wootton Hall Estate grounds.
Wine Tasting Events
Regularly hosted wine-pairing dinners showcase our 200-strong wine list. Using Coravin technology, we offer 36 wines by the glass. Events often feature special menus highlighting local game and seasonal produce, with expert guidance from our sommeliers.
People
Johnny Greenall
Co-Owner
With generations of hospitality experience, Johnny co-founded The Duncombe Arms after identifying the potential in this historic inn. His family's brewing heritage informs our curated beer selection and traditional pub atmosphere.
Laura Greenall
Co-Owner
Laura brings extensive culinary expertise to our kitchen garden initiatives and seasonal menus. Her vision helped transform the neglected inn into a dining destination while preserving its historic character and community spirit.
James Oddy
General Manager
A hospitality professional with experience at 3 AA Rosette establishments, James oversees our wine list development and service standards. His expertise ensures the perfect balance between local pub charm and fine dining excellence.
Scott Law
Head Chef
Passionate about local sourcing, Scott leads our foraging initiatives and kitchen garden development. He creates menus showcasing seasonal produce while maintaining the high culinary standards that earned our Michelin Bib Gourmand award.
Questions
Do I need to book a table in advance?
We strongly advise booking to guarantee seating, though we welcome walk-ins subject to availability. High demand periods require advance reservations.
What accommodation options are available?
We offer ten luxury bedrooms at Walnut House, plus two self-catering cottages - The Garden Cottage and The Old Barn - sleeping up to six guests.
Are pets allowed in accommodation?
Yes, select rooms accept pets with a £20-£25 supplement. Please notify us in advance to arrange appropriate accommodation.
Can I host a private event?
Our private dining room seats twelve for special occasions. We provide tailored menus and exclusive use options for family celebrations or business meetings.
What local attractions are nearby?
Just three miles from Alton Towers, we're surrounded by Peak District scenery, historic Wootton Hall Gardens, and cultural sites linked to Handel and Rousseau.
Reviews (7)
Kate Unsworth
Jan 02, 2022
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We stayed here 3 nights and had a wonderful time. The rooms are beautiful and super comfortable, with lovely views. We ate at the restaurant every night and the food is absolutely sensational. Topped off by lovely staff and friendly owners. Highly recommended.
V. C.
Dec 27, 2021
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Stayed one night for bed, breakfast and evening meal. The quality of accommodation, food, drinks and service are just outstanding. Its good to be somewhere you can feel the love.
Colin Burrows
Dec 25, 2021
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Absolutely fabulous Christmas Eve meal with my true love ❤️. Food & service second to none cocktails to die for.
Kieran Rons
Dec 24, 2021
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If it looks like a great place, the service is excellent, the drink and food are superb, then it probably is excellent! If you find yourself here, you're in for a treat!
Kieran Rons
Dec 18, 2021
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These guys know how to look after you. The service is genuinely superb and the food is next level. I saw this place and knew I had to go in. It's my kinda place.... The team seem genuinely passionate and dedicated to your having a good time and can't do enough. The food and drink is expertly crafted and served. It's an absolute gem of a place. All credit to the team who make it so! I'll be back asap!
Jane Watkins
Nov 15, 2021
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Excellent meal . The staff were very friendly and helpful and couldn't have done anymore to make the evening special for my twin sister and myself,celebrating our 70th birthday.We look forward to returning to the Duncombe Arms in the future. Well done to all the staff especially the chef for an exceptional meal and dining experience.
Sarah Hadley-Rainsford
Nov 08, 2021
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Wow! What a place. So welcoming, amazingly friendly team. Beautiful food, setting and service. Felt so well looked after I can’t rave enough about this place to anyone that will listen. It’s a firm favourite now and somewhere really special ♥️
