Former Rafters Chef Takes Over Peak District Pub Near Ladybower Reservoir

One of the Peak District's best-known country pubs has entered a new chapter after being taken over by the former owner of one of Sheffield's most acclaimed restaurants. The Ladybower Inn, on the edge of Ladybower Reservoir, has reopened following a full refurbishment under chef Tom Lawson.

Tom is best known for Rafters in Sheffield and its former sister restaurant, Rafters at Riverside House in Ashford-in-the-Water, before later opening The Psalter. His latest venture, however, marks a change of direction, swapping fine dining for the sort of relaxed country pub many visitors are looking for after a day exploring the Peak District.

Rather than tasting menus, diners can expect classic pub favourites including steak and suet pie, fish and chips, Cumberland sausage and mash, burgers and sandwiches, alongside hand-pulled ales, lagers and a south-facing beer garden overlooking one of the busiest routes into the national park.

Speaking about the move, Tom said he had watched the pub for several years before the opportunity finally arose to take it on. He described it as "too good an opportunity" to miss, adding that while the first few months have presented challenges, including road closures on the A57 and Snake Pass, the business is beginning to find its feet.

The Ladybower Inn is currently open from Thursday to Sunday and also offers guest accommodation, with breakfast service expected to be introduced in the coming weeks. Dogs are welcome and the pub's location makes it a convenient stop for walkers, cyclists and visitors exploring Ladybower Reservoir and the Upper Derwent Valley.

We'll be adding The Ladybower Inn to our list for a future visit to see how it compares with some of our favourite Peak District pubs.

Drop us a line at hello@thegoodlifelist.co.uk if you head over. We'd love to hear what you think.

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