The Peacock at Rowsley

Peacock Hotel review We spent two nights at the Peacock in a lovely room high up on the second floor. This was not very sensible from the point of view of the stairs (the second flight is very steep and narrow), but we decided to book the only room that has a walk-in shower – it was apparently put in because they couldn't fit a bath in the space. With my mobility issues, I attempted to minimise the number of times I had to go up and down said stairs. But the room and furnishings are lovely, with Penhaligon toiletries and hand-made chocolates, cute little boxes of tea and fresh (sterilised) milk in bottles. It's also really quiet, even though the hotel is on a main road (there is secondary double glazing on the windows.) The young lady who checked us in was pleasant and efficient, and made sure our cases were carried up and down. (Thanks Katie.) The drinks in the bar were excessively expensive; when we came to pay our bill, we found we'd been charged £36 for two gin and tonics! We chose the Chatsworth gin, but even so... I fear the hotel is Having A Laugh where drinks are concerned. Food was generally excellent; the chocolate fondant was a particular standout. If I have some slight criticisms, I felt that the baby artichokes were rather overwhelmed by the pastry base, and my glass of rosé wasn’t chilled – but then I should have asked for that to be remedied. There was a good choice on the breakfast menu, including the croissant with smoked salmon, cream cheese and scrambled egg shown below. Service was pleasant and attentive. More could be made of the history of the hotel – I’m sure other guests as well as myself would be interested.

A beautiful old building with an interesting aged history. The staff were amazing, very friendly. We were looked after in our stay with passion from every member of staff we encountered. Our tasting menu that evening was truly wonderful and a fabulous wine and cocktail list that was very suitably priced and packed with some very interesting wines. We retired to our rooms for one of the best sleeps ever. The rooms had welcomed air-conditioning. Breakfast was equally good. Could not fault ThePeacock at Rowsley.

Leaving a wonderful family wedding on a high, bad weather and a car breakdown forced us to make last minute arrangements in an area we were not familiar with. Luck would have it that the breakdown in Rowsley led us to The Peacock. Hospitality beyond expectations from Hilary on reception, Lee and Poppy in the bar, transformed a bleak situation to an unexpected special end to our weekend. The hotel oozes comfort with its warming fire in the bar and plush furnishings. The delicious light meal & drinks, along with the service, were of high quality restaurant standards. A good nights sleep and exceptional breakfast saw us on our way. We look forward to when we can return.