The Stags Head

The Stags Head in Ashbourne is one of those pubs that pulls off a rare magic trick - looking deceptively modest from the outside while harboring an absolute TARDIS of good times within. Nestled in the heart of this charming Derbyshire market town, it's the kind of place where you pop in for "just one quick drink" and somehow find yourself settling in for the evening, making new friends, and wondering why all pubs can't be this welcoming.

Push open those familiar wooden doors, and the first thing that hits you is the sheer scale of the place. The Stags Head performs a spatial sleight-of-hand that would make Mary Poppins' carpet bag jealous - it just keeps going and going. The interior unfolds like a Russian doll of social spaces, each room with its own distinct personality but somehow maintaining that cohesive, classic pub warmth throughout.

The main bar area strikes that perfect balance between traditional and contemporary that so many pubs attempt but few achieve. Dark wood meets modern lighting, while the bar itself gleams with an impressive array of taps featuring everything from local ales to premium lagers. The Guinness here, by the way, is poured with the kind of reverence usually reserved for fine wine - and locals swear it's among the best pints you'll find this side of Dublin.

What really sets The Stags Head apart from other Ashbourne watering holes is its ability to be all things to all people without feeling like it's trying too hard. On any given night, you might find a group of hikers fresh off the Tissington Trail sharing space with locals catching up over a pint, while weekend visitors to the Peak District unwind after a day of exploration. The atmosphere somehow manages to be both lively and laid-back, with background music at just the right volume to fill any conversation lulls without drowning out your chat.

Speaking of atmosphere, the outdoor seating area is a proper treat when the weather plays nice (which, let's be honest, in Derbyshire means any time it's not actively raining). It's a surprisingly spacious spot that catches the evening sun perfectly, making it ideal for those long summer evenings when you're not quite ready to head indoors yet.

For sports fans, The Stags Head has positioned itself as one of Ashbourne's premier spots to catch the big game. Multiple screens are thoughtfully placed throughout, ensuring you won't miss a crucial moment whether you're watching football, rugby, or cricket. Yet somehow, they've managed to avoid the common pitfall of feeling like a sports bar - it's still very much a proper pub that happens to show sports rather than the other way around.

The staff deserve a special mention - they're that perfect mix of professional and personable, the kind who remember your usual after a couple of visits and seem genuinely pleased to see you return. They navigate the busy weekend crowds with the kind of efficiency that makes you wonder if they've mastered the art of teleportation, all while maintaining the warm welcome that makes The Stags Head feel like a second home.

Price-wise, you're looking at standard market town pub rates - reasonable enough to justify a few rounds without having to remortgage your house. The quality of both drinks and service makes it feel like solid value for money, especially considering the premium feel of the place.

One of the pub's cleverer features is the parking situation - with both free parking lot and street parking options available, it solves that eternal pub-goer's dilemma of designated driver logistics. They've also embraced modern convenience with contactless payments, though they're just as happy to take cash if you're old school that way.

Consider The Stags Head your new favorite base camp in Ashbourne. Whether you're a local looking for your regular haunt or a visitor seeking that authentic Peak District pub experience, this place delivers in spades. Pop in during the early evening to snag the best spots, especially if there's a big match on. And trust me - order that Guinness. Even if you're not usually a stout drinker, it might just convert you. The Stags Head isn't just another pub in Ashbourne; it's a masterclass in how to run a modern local that feels both fresh and timeless.