Visitors this year 'almost had to beat off offers to carry our bags' into this former dower house for Haddon Hall. 'Arriving late on a freezing afternoon, we were soothed by the cosiness and the warm welcome.' The attractive building, with a stone exterior, stands in grounds that run down to the River Derwent. Owned by Lord Edward Manners, managed by Ian and Jenni MacKenzie, it is a 'wonderful mixture of ancient building with modern, classy interior', says another report. 'Our standard double bedroom, and our daughter's single, were a blend of traditional and antique furniture with some colourful design-led pieces. Bathrooms were tiny but luxuriously appointed.' The quietest rooms are at the rear; front ones face the busy A6 but have double-glazed windows. The evening turn-down service includes next day's weather forecast. In the two dining rooms, which have 'wonderful Mouseman furniture', food was 'stunning'. Chef Dan Smith serves modern dishes, perhaps Dorset crab, blood orange and radish salad; assiette of lamb, aubergine, chickpeas, moussaka. Traditional lunches and suppers are served in the bar. Breakfast has a good buffet: 'plenty of cereals, good toast, croissants, pastries, waffles'; cooked costs extra. Guests can shoot on the estate, and visit Haddon Hall (50% discount). (Jenny Buckley, Celia and Peter Gregory)
The Peacock at Rowsley holiday offer
Bank Holiday Mondays and Sundays have become even more special with standard rooms available from £150.00 to include accommodation, three course dinner and buffet breakfast.
Please mention The Good Hotel Guide when booking.