In the heart of the village, a former blacksmith’s house (built in 1863) and later the village post office, has been elegantly reinvented. It has a wood-panelled bar with an open fire, seasonal menus in the contemporary bistro, and seven prettily decorated bedrooms above.

Close to Bedford Park, an informal restaurant with rooms blends vintage and modern decoration with flair. Breakfast, morning coffee, traditional British dishes and sharing platters, and homemade afternoon teas are served. Several of the Victorian-style bedrooms have a vintage sink and roll-top bath.

In a converted warehouse facing the old waterfront, this Italian restaurant with rooms is just across from Red Funnel Ferries, and convenient for the high street and railway station. Air-conditioned bedrooms are plushly furnished and have a safe, bathrobes and slippers. A Continental breakfast is served in the morning. In Ennio’s Restaurant, there is a welcoming bar, and piattis of typical Italian cuisine and regional specials. A flower-decked pavement terrace is ideal for al fresco dining. Limited (paid) parking can be reserved.

Chef/patron Sebastian Fisher, runs his restaurant with rooms with Michelle Fisher in a 17th-century building in the town centre. Aperitifs, followed by a five-course monthly changing menu (Wed-Sat) are taken in a welcoming oak-panelled room, warmed by a log fire on cool days; outside on a paved terrace in summer. Characterful bedrooms have beams, brass bedsteads, a coffee machine and fresh fruit.

Hardwick, Hartington, Hassop, Hathersage? Beginning with ‘H’ each of the ten modern bedrooms in this centrally located hotel is named after a Peak District village and tells a story with local artwork and photographs on the walls. Staying guests join locals in the Lounge Bar which is open until 9 pm, for a Continental breakfast (cooked extra), snacks, afternoon tea and bar meals. Or head to the Bakewell Pudding Parlour for the town’s famous tart.