The Duncombe Arms, Ellastone | Michelin Bib Gourmand * Pet-Friendly

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The Duncombe Arms Hotel Ellastone Exterior photo

The Duncombe Arms Hotel Ellastone Room photo

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Key details

About the Hotel

The Duncombe Arms Main, Ellastone, United Kingdom, DE6 2GZ

Close to Alton Towers Theme Park

Perfect

9.3

/10

5.0

Accommodations

The Duncombe Arms offers diverse lodging options, including 10 private rooms in Walnut House, which overlooks the Dove Valley. Each room features artisan wallpapers and luxury Egyptian cotton linens, ensuring a cozy stay. Guests can also choose the recently refurbished Garden Cottage, located just two miles away in the grounds of Wootton Hall Estate.

Dining

The Duncombe Arms provides an a la carte dining experience, with a menu that varies seasonally to highlight local produce sourced from nearby farms. The pub is recognized by the Michelin Guide and Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastro Pubs for its innovative takes on British classics. A private dining room is available for family gatherings and special occasions, accommodating up to 12 guests.

Location

Nestled on the edge of the Peak District, The Duncombe Arms is conveniently situated just three miles from Alton Towers, a popular theme park. The inn is surrounded by scenic walking and cycling routes, offering easy access to natural attractions and historic landmarks. Nearby Ashbourne and Uttoxeter provide additional shopping and entertainment options.

Pet-Friendly Amenities

The hotel welcomes canine companions, with designated rooms available for pet owners. An additional charge of £20 applies for pets staying in the accommodations. The surrounding countryside offers ample space for pet-friendly activities, making it an attractive choice for animal lovers.

Activities

Guests can explore the local area with various outdoor activities, including hiking in the Peak District and fishing on the River Dove. The hotel's proximity to historic sites and traditional markets makes it a convenient choice for day trips. Additionally, exclusive wine-tasting dinners are hosted regularly, showcasing outstanding local selections.

Highlights

Location: On the edge of the Peak District

Accommodations: 10 private rooms in Walnut House

Dining: Michelin recommended menu featuring local produce

Pet-Friendly: Designated dog-friendly rooms

Activities: Hiking, fishing, and wine-tasting dinners

Must-do experiences

Visit the stunning Alton Towers Resort for thrilling rides.
Enjoy a pint of local ale at The Blacksmiths Arms in Ault Hucknall.
Stroll through the beautiful Dovedale and its scenic trails.
Don't miss the handcrafted cheeses at the Ashbourne Market on Thursdays.
Taste the famous Staffordshire oatcakes at The Oatcake Shop.

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Select your room type

The Duncombe Arms Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Junior Suite Terrace

2 persons

360 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

Deluxe Double Room

2 persons

345 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

The Garden Cottage Three-Bedroom House

2 persons

2155 sq. feet

2 Single beds

Garden view

Bathtub

room details

The Old Barn Three-Bedroom Holiday Home

2 persons

2155 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Fireplace

Bathtub

room details

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Facilities

The Duncombe Arms Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Perfect

9.5/10Review score

General

Non-smoking rooms
Wi-Fi
Parking
Safe deposit box
Pets allowed
Fireplace
Electric vehicle charging station

Guest Parking

Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

Housekeeping
Welcome drink

Dining

Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Outdoor dining area

Children

Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

Garden area

Room features

Air conditioning
Sitting area
Patio
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Washing machine
Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

Flat-screen TV

Room decor

Parquet floor

Dining Onsite

The Duncombe Arms invites guests to indulge in authentic British cuisine, showcasing the finest seasonal ingredients in a beautifully crafted setting. With an atmosphere that complements both family gatherings and intimate outings, dining here is a delight for the senses.

The Duncombe Arms

British

Ambiance

An elegant dining room featuring a soft, inviting atmosphere, perfect for family feasts, romantic dinners, or long conversations.

Key Offerings

A menu catering to various dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options, all prepared with the best local produce. A full breakfast menu is available from Wednesday, while a continental breakfast is served on Monday and Tuesday mornings.

Reservation

Recommended

Lunch and dinner: Wednesday to Saturday, 12:00 - 14:30 & 18:00 - 21:00; Sunday, 12:00 - 17:00; breakfast: Continental on Monday and Tuesday, full breakfast from Wednesday.

The Duncombe Arms Hotel Location

The Duncombe Arms Main, Ellastone, United Kingdom, DE6 2GZ

Map view

The Duncombe Arms Main, Ellastone, United Kingdom, DE6 2GZ

City landmarks

Landmark

The Old Manor

3900 ft

Amusement Park

Alton Towers

2.6 mi

Landmark

Calwich Abbey

3800 ft

Landmark

St Mary and St Barlock's Church

3800 ft

Landmark

Norbury Hall

3900 ft

Landmark

Type 24 Pillbox

3000 ft

Landmark

National Trust

3800 ft

Amusement Park

Alton Towers Waterpark

2.1 mi

Landmark

Alton Towers Theme Park

3.0 mi

Landmark

Calwichbank Farmhouse

1.2 mi

Landmark

Dovellys Manor

1.1 mi

Landmark

Wootton Lodge

1.4 mi

Landmark

Crumpwood Ram Pump House

1.6 mi

Landmark

Churnet Flood Lock

1.6 mi

Landmark

CBeebies Land

2.0 mi

Landmark

Church of All Saints

1.8 mi

Landmark

Bridge 70

1.7 mi

Landmark

Enchanted Village

1.8 mi

Amusement Park

Splash Landings Waterpark

2.0 mi

Landmark

Denstone College Golf Club

2.0 mi

Landmark

Denstone Contemporary Art Gallery

2.0 mi

Golf Course

Extraordinary Golf

2.2 mi

Landmark

Galactica

2.3 mi

Landmark

Nemesis

2.3 mi

Landmark

St Peters Parish Church Snelston

2.3 mi

Landmark

Ashbourne Arts

2.3 mi

Landmark

Church of St Michael

2.4 mi

Church

St Michael & All Angels' Church

2.4 mi

Nearby

Church of St Peter

1100 ft

Restaurants

The Duncombe Arms Pub

0 ft

Main Road Ellastone

The Duncombe Arms

0 ft

Restaurant

Explore Ellastone

Local Highlights Near The Duncombe Arms

Alton Towers

10-minute drive

Famous theme park with thrilling rides and attractions, suitable for all ages, located just a short drive away.

Calwich Abbey

15 minutes' walk

Historic abbey featuring stunning architecture and peaceful grounds; great for a relaxing stroll.

The Old Manor

15 minutes' walk

Charming historical site offering picturesque views and a glimpse into local heritage.

Church of St Peter

4 minutes' walk

Quaint church with beautiful architecture, perfect for a brief visit or quiet reflection.

Alton Towers Waterpark

10-minute drive

Indoor water park boasting exciting slides and pools, perfect for families or fun-seekers.

Walking Trails at Calwichbank Farmhouse

25 minutes walking

Scenic trails for hiking amidst beautiful countryside, ideal for a peaceful day outdoors.

The Duncombe Arms Pub

5 minutes' walk

Welcoming pub offering local dishes and a fine selection of ales in a relaxed atmosphere.

Calwichbank Farmhouse

5-minute drive

Farm-to-table dining with seasonal ingredients and a cozy ambiance, perfect for a delightful meal.

Live Music at Alton Towers

10-minute drive

Vibrant music events hosted seasonally at the park, featuring various genres for all tastes.

Family Nights at The Duncombe Arms

5 minutes' walk

Regular family-friendly events and quizzes at the pub, fostering a lively community spirit.

Getting around

City Centre

Ellastone2 min · 400 ft

Airports

East Midlands (EMA)87 min · 35.8 mi

Manchester (MAN)103 min · 42.5 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 16:00-22:00

Check-out

from 09:00-10:00

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in for free.

Breakfast

At the hotel The Duncombe Arms guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free.

Children & extra beds

There are no extra beds provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Duncombe Arms Hotel from previous guests about their experience.

Review score

Based on 405 verified reviews

9.1/10

Perfect

91%

Recommend

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Comfort

9.7/10

Facilities

9.5/10

Free Wi-Fi

9.5/10

Location

9.4/10

Staff

9.4/10

Value for money

8.8/10

Aiden from Ireland

deluxe double room

4 nights in October 2025

Reviewed:December 31, 2025

6/10

mixed feelings about the stay

rural locationold mattressinexperienced staff

the location was rural, perfect for nearby walks.

The mattress was not comfortable. i could feel the springs digging into me, and it sloped when i lay on it. the service lacked charm. The customer-facing staff seemed young and inexperienced.

0 Helpful

robert from united kingdom

Couple

deluxe double room

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:December 01, 2025

9/10

really good food and decor

modern roomsfriendly staffdelicious food

the style caught my attention, especially the decor. i found the rooms spacious and modern. the food was delicious too!!!

0 Helpful

Naomi from United Kingdom

Single

Deluxe Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:November 26, 2025

7/10

reasonable stay

stylish decorlovely toiletriesold mattresstired mattress

the room decor was stylish. high end fittings and lovely toiletries pleased me.

the mattress was old and tired. springs digging in caused a bad night sleep, i woke achy.

0 Helpful

Steven from United Kingdom

Business traveller

Deluxe Double Room

2 nights in June 2025

Reviewed:September 05, 2025

9/10

comfy bedsquality furnishingsexcellent wine

The Walnut House had very comfy beds. High quality furnishings were present. The air conditioning was powerful and quiet. Dinner was excellent. Everyone enjoyed starters, mains, and desserts. The wine menu seemed particularly excellent. High end Bordeaux with good vintages were available.

A bedside light was not working and probably needed a new bulb.

0 Helpful

Nathaniel from United Kingdom

Couple

Deluxe Double Room

3 nights in June 2025

Reviewed:July 24, 2025

9/10

wonderful

bamford productsfantastic food

my room had bamford products in the bathroom. the restaurant menu offered fantastic food, i tought.

0 Helpful

FAQs

About The Duncombe Arms

What are the check-in and check-out times at The Duncombe Arms?

Check-in is at 16:00 and check-out is by 10:30.

Is parking available at The Duncombe Arms?

Free private parking is available on-site without the need for reservation.

How far is The Duncombe Arms from Alton Towers?

The hotel is located 9 km from Alton Towers.

What room amenities are provided at The Duncombe Arms?

Rooms include air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a kettle, and complimentary toiletries.

What dining options are offered at The Duncombe Arms?

The hotel features an on-site restaurant with a menu that includes buffet, continental, and Full English/Irish breakfast options.

How far is The Duncombe Arms from East Midlands Airport?

The hotel is 60 km from East Midlands Airport.

What is the ambiance of the restaurant at The Duncombe Arms?

The restaurant features a soft, inviting ambience suitable for family meals and romantic dinners.

Are there any nearby attractions from The Duncombe Arms?

Nearby attractions include Chatsworth House (40 km), Trentham Gardens (37 km), and Buxton Opera House (39 km).

Is Wi-Fi available at The Duncombe Arms?

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.

What additional features are available in some rooms at The Duncombe Arms?

Certain rooms include a kitchen equipped with an oven.

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