please note - reviews on this site are purely the opinion of site visitors, so don't take them too seriously.
My room for the night and an honour to be in a 1660 building, operating as a coaching house for 400 years.
Beers were well kept, with an Acorn Brewery Barnsley Bitter Chosen.
Landlord and staff friendly.
Can only comment of breakfast, which was super.
Castleton has been superb - great beers in all 5 places.
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Another tourist orientated pub - ale was good (Abbeydale Moonshine) but not quite up to the Nags head.
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Popped in here a couple of times whilst staying in Castleton over Xmas. There's a really good selection of ales - all 6 were from different local breweries with tasting notes on the pump clips - a nice touch.
On the downside though staff were not particularly friendly and on my second visit I was served a pint that even with the considerable head was still well under.
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An excellent selection of Peak District/Derbyshire brews on the bar here. Thornbridge, Peak Ales, Bradfield, Wincle, plus a few others. Good service too. Took a chance on it while passing and it paid off nicely.
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Last year there were beer quality issues. These seem to have been sorted out. Excellent thornbridge white swan last time I was in. However, the peaks has set the bar beer-wise in castleton recently. Cheese not far behind if it keeps this improvement going
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Good mix of locals and walkers on a busy Friday night, if anything the latter group perhaps in the majority. Cosy pub, good atmosphere, two lovely pints of 'Barnsley Gold' and they even played erstwhile classic 'Ain't no pleasin' you', so a fine watering hole in my book!
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Visited on a Thursday afternoon for a post walk pint - very quiet though not surprised as it was mid January - excellent range of beers, Barnsley and Castle Rock and Wincle all on good form. Returned for an evening meal, nice atmosphere and food very good, very reasonably priced and substantial desserts in particular - nice to see that two beers that had finished earlier had already been replaced. will come here again
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Found my way here mid-afternoon to slake my thirst after a long walk. Unsurprisingly given the time it was very quiet. A comfortable pub with 5 real ales. The 2 I tried were both excellent.
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A fairly decent pub. Some decent beers on and they were in good condition. A good mix of locals and visitors on a Saturday night. Friendly atmosphere.
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Not great. Lots of ales on but the one I chose was not in good nick. Bit of a gloomy interior that could be atmospheric but isn't really, could do with a few locals to liven the place up a bit. Perhaps I went at the wrong time. Not a bad place but not a good place.
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Real good beer just slightly too cold leaving a chill haze!! But overall well kept and tasted ok when warmed up to room temp.. Food though Quite poor especially the over cooked frozen chips!!!
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last Saturday 10 of us just had a meal there and could not fault it. good service, good food and good beer
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Visited today - this pub looked lovely from the outside and we were greeted by very friendly and welcoming staff. The Chatsworth Gold beer was very good, so we decided to stay for a meal - big mistake! We opted for a sunday roast at �8.95 - I have never been presented with such a poor meal, nothing on the plate was cooked freshly today, the boiled parsnips and carrots had obviously been cooked a day ago and then microwaved to the point they were collapsing, the 'roast' potatoes were fried and the mash was inedible. The gravy was the most horrid instant stuff. We were scoping out venues for a long weekend with mates, but will definitely not be staying here.
Good beer, but the food is a risk!
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just bad
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Visited over this last weekend (Sunday onwards). Pub fairly busy with wide choice of ales (although probably a bit on the cold side). Peak Ales on offer which were good. Obviously been refurbished in the last few years with more than its fair share of irrelevent 'tat' around the walls. Worth a look if just for the beers.
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Stayed here for a long weekend walking in the surrounding hills. Loved it
staff are very friendly and the rooms are clean, comfortable although a little on the small side. Food and drink in the bar are good and very reasonably priced, would definately return to such a lovely place!!
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Visited the pub on a busy Saturday night to sample the real ales. Asked the landlord to let me sample one of the real ales but he point blank refused. After a short discussion I came to the opinion that he didnt give a dam about customers or customer service. I have never met a more obnoxious landlord and believe me I have met a few. When I pointed out we might want ot book a table for 8 for the following night if he was a little mote accommodating he said ' I'm not bothered were full anyway. Pefect I thought and took my trade and wallet elsewhere. Wouldnt touch the place with a barge pole.
micko - 17 Dec 2009 09:07 |
A terrific pub with a large range of ales, all very well kept. I needed two visits to get through them all. The bar staff were friendy and helpful (even reducing the head for a simple southerner). We didn't feel as though food was being thrust at us, but we did have a very good meal on the second visit. As to atmosphere, perhaps it depends on the number of customers and their demeanour. I spent a happy 10 minutes chatting to the barman and a yorkshireman who was a Huddersfield supporter.
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Only stayed in there for one pint.Beer was well kept and local.Friendly lady behind the bar.No atmosphere though.....
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Not bad for a tourist trap pub. Four beers all well kept. A bit too food orientated though. Friendly staff, but I won't make a habit of it.
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My girlfriend and I decided to have an evening meal here while staying in Castleton (all of the pubs looked good, but this one had the most tempting menu). We weren't dissappointed. The food was deliciuos (I've never see a Barnsley chop like the one my girlfiend had!) and, in spite of the place being fairly busy, arrived without undue delay. The pub itself was charming and the staff were friendly. The only problem we had was walking back to our hotel, we were stuffed!
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This is a lovely, old pub in the heart of Castleton - after a long walk me and my fellow rambler stopped for quick pint and we weren't disappointed. The barmaid was lovely, very friendly and chatty, and the beer was spot on too. We didn't eat, but plenty of punters were and the food looked and smelt great. There was fresh fish on the specials board which was very reasonably priced plus plenty of choice from the regular menu.
Highly recommended!
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Cracking pub. Can feel slightly claustrophobic due to the dark decor being used despite the low ceilings, but fantastic beer and friendly service. Well worth the visit.
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A good choice of ales, well served.
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popped in for lunch
nice range of real ales with lanlords son most welcoming
fire in main bar was smokey and staff had to open front door to get it draw up the chimney!
batter on starter was overcooked but real ale pie was good, real ale was priced a little high.
get ready for lots of walkers and muddy boots.
staff and regulars were most welcoming
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Me and my partner came here for our first valentines together. all the staff made us feel very welcome. Our room was lovely clean and cosy. Would like to try the four poster room when we return on our anniversary. The meals were fantastic and the atmosphere in the pub was so warm and friendly. I would like to thank the landlord John and all the staff for making an all ready special weekend even more special. I have bragged to all our family and friends about the Cheshire Cheese and strongly recommended it to them. See you all soon x
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A warm welcome,accomodating staff who look after you very well, good food and a great focal point for walkers. Entertainment on both Sat/Sun of our stay. One minor criticism, our room was on the small side for us, but all very clean and comfortable. We made the point and were shown a variety of rooms, some more spacious than others. If size is an issue...... please ask, but regardless, this is a very good place to stay.
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This is a great place to stay in Castleton. The staff are very friendly and the food is good.
The bedroom we stayed in was compact but was clean and comfortable
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Nice pub. Warm welcome. Had the Kelham Island Pale Rider which was above average. Wasn't so keen on the Bradfield Farmers Blonde. Veggie food ok, but not exceptional.
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A great selection of beers in a welcoming, comfortable atmosphere. I was on the Farmers Blonde (Bradfield Brewery) throughout both of my visits to the Cheese this week, although there were at least 4 or 5 other real ales available if I fancied a change, but I can honestly say it was one of the best beers I have had the pleasure to drink - well kept and well served. My party ate here one night and found all of our meals to be excellent quality, especially the desserts, although perhaps a little pricy compared to the competition nearby. I have no hesitation in recommending the Cheshire Cheese to all and will certainly be popping in again when I am next in the area.
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My wife & I and two friends stayed here for 3 nights. It's a great pub, and the food was excellent - we ate here 2 out of the 3 nights. The owners and staff were very friendly and welcoming. We'd certainly stay here again. Our only slight criticism is that the bedrooms could do with a bit of TLC
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Well I said we'd be back!! Had 3 nights back at Ye Old Cheshire and once again can't complain. Food, staff and rooms were all excellent and Saturdays live duet/band were great!! Looking forward to return as soon as poss.
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Good food, good beer, pleasant surroundings - no complaints!
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Stayed at The Cheshire Cheese 27th to 30th Jan 07 on the 3 night for 2,great time, Landlord and staff very friendly,Quiz on Sunday Night good fun.Food very nice,the young chef very helpfull.Will be going back.
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Also stayed at the Cheese for New Year (second year running) and can only echo the comments of bigeyun.
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Have just spent 4 nights over new year at Ye Old Chesire Cheese and had a great time, landlord and his wife, John and Karen, couldn't be more helpfull, all the staff were excellent, food and drink was lovely and the rooms were nice and clean. Couldn't fault it to be honest!!!!! Will be back to enjoy the 3 for 2 offer before the end of March!!
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nice cosey place good quiz on sundays but enjoyed myself too much didnt finish the quiz
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We recently stayed here on the 3 for 2 offer and had a lovely time. The landlord and staff were very friendly and we enjoyed the cask ales (especially Moonshine). The food was the best we had in Castleton and it was good that children were only allowed in the dining room and not the bar. The rooms were clean and comfortable.
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This is one of the friendliest pubs I have visited for a long time. The new owners are the most delightful people you could wish to meet. Barnsley Bitter - fantastic.
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We arrived in Castleton at 10.50 am and this pub was open. The service was very friendly and the landlord was a top bloke. He recommended the Pale Rider(strong ale) which pretty much set the standard for the day. I still don't remember getting back to the castle where we were staying(12 hours later)
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An excellent 'proper' pub this is for me. Very good food and above all a good, well kept selection of 3 or 4 interesting ales. I've stayed there three times now and will definitely return soon. Thumbs up from me!
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Had Sunday lunch there recently. We were very pleased with our meals, and with the nice range of local ales and friendly service.
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Sorry i meant to say they have 4 real ales!!!
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What a fantastic place to stay. The new owners John (extremely good looking!!!) and Karen (Mad but lovely!!!) along with their staff are very warm and friendly, the locals are lovely too. The rooms and food are great. Thave 4 real ales and are planning a 5th. We really enjoyed our stay are going back soon (sorry Dave!!!)
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Went back to the Cheese over Easter and again was not dissapointed. As promised at New Year 3 additional real ales have been added, none of which are available at the other pubs of Castleton. The Cheese is on the up so do not hesitate in going.
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didnt know they have changed hands went twice last year,had great time, although needed lamp at side of beds!the food was brill,hope they kept the chef, is nigel still there?planning on visiting soon.
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Stayed for 3 nights over New Year and had a thoroughly enjoyable time. The new owners and the staff were very friendly and treated regulars and tourists the same. The food was of very good quality and whilst there is only one real ale on at present the plan is to introduce a further 2 in the near future.
Yes our bedroom was a little on the small side but it was very clean, and the radiator worked properly.
I shall be returning and my advise is not to be afraid to give it a go.
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Under new ownership as of a few weeks ago.
The Landlord's daughter's in Hollyoaks apparently.....
anonymous - 29 Dec 2006 11:47 |
being perverse thought I'd try the "one to be avoided" no redeeming features, staff clearly wanted to be somewhere else (probably a Saga holiday), strangely quiet on a busy day in castleton, only reason I didn't take beer back was I couldn't bear to contribute further to barman's state of depression
skrib - 17 Oct 2006 09:35 |
Stuffy, dingy, smokey, cliquey (although admittedly rarely, as the pub seems perpetually dead)
the staff are offish and seem annoyed by any custom whatsoever.
a wide(ish) selection of ales and lagers only increases the chances of your pint tasting sour.
there's a link cash machine in the rear, but it charges an exorbitant fee just to access your own money (more so than most)
food was basic and seemingly pre-packaged, and cooked aided soley by a microwave or deep-fat fryer. we even heard the 'pings' coming through the open kitchen door!
worst of the six castleton pubs, by some distance.
anonymous - 9 Oct 2006 14:04 |
Stayed one night at the weekend, was a little apprehensive after reading the reviews above but was pleasantly surprised. Staff were friendly on check in, room was clean and bed was comfy. Bathroom small but Ive seen a lot worse in this country. Didnt experience any feeling of paranoia - yes, there were notices on the bedroom door with the house rules on, but it may just have been the fact that they were written informally and specifically rather than being generically worded - that have put some people off. Only saw one CCTV camera near the bedrooms, hardly Big Brother ! The pub now does serve food until 8:30pm and there was a relaxing atmosphere in the bar later in the evening - cant really ask for much more than that in Castleton ! Breakfast was perfectly adequate, and as per the previous reviewers, the breakfast staff were very nice. All in all, this isnt the best pub B&B in the Peak District (maybe not even the best in Castleton !), but I dont think it deserves to be classed as "one to be avoided"
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This is a definate NOT RECOMMENDED!
Payment is required on arrival before you've been shown the room. We stayed for two nights and would have happily moved on after the first. We went at the beginning of March and the room was FREEZING - socks in bed, very romantic. The food was over priced and very average. The pub and room can only be described as grotty. The en suite bathroom was mouldy and if you are bigger than a size 10 ladies, the door needs to be open to fit in. Castleton is beautiful but please stay elsewhere, all are 10 times better.
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Good pub for old men!!!
Rooms small, food okay and staff unfriendly.
Have to be in by 12, not good when the pub up the road serves until late. Stay there instead.
anonymous - 6 Mar 2006 16:40 |
Me and my partner recently stayed here for a couple of nights. My advise to anyone thinking of staying here is dont think these reviews maybe wrong - Do not stay here! We arrived and a very unfriendly member of the bar staff, asked us straight away for the payment, no smiles or welcome and after viewing the room and the unfriendlyness i can understand why they take your payment as you arrive - we would have left on the first night and stayed elsewhere had we had the chance (my partner would have left even though we had paid!)
The room we were allocated had the smallest bathroom we had ever seen and when you got out of the shower you banged into the sink. But the worst thing about it was the door to the bathroom was slatted door that didnt shut across properly, so if you needed to go to the toilet for a number 2, the other person had to leave the room!
You got the feeling that there was a large sense of paranoia staying here,there were CCTV cameras on every wall and on the back of the room door there was a list of DONT DO THIS, DONT DO THAT or else, no welcomes, you had to be in before 12 am or the doors were locked and you were given the impression your bags would be in the street if you were. The pub was alarmed down stairs at night, no problem with that, just that you were told if you did go downstairs at night an alarm would go off to the landlord and you would be thrown out if there wasnt a v.good reason.
The Pub advertised itself as serving food, but it didnt.
To sum up, I am going to contact the AA about the Star rating for this establishment as it no way deserves the rating it has at the present. I would advise everyone not to stay here, it was overpriced, paraniod and unfriendly (except the breakfast staff as they were friendly). There was a lovely hotel next door where we could have stayed and have a room with a Jacuzzi and friendly staff for an extra �7 each per night - Why or why didnt we book there!
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Currently up for sale....
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We paid a significant deposit by bank cheque from Australia well in advance and when we arrived we were told they hadn't received it. We then also had to pay in advance all our accommodation and when we got home we discovered that our origional cheque had been received and banked. We haven't been able to have it refunded since. We found our accommodation over priced and the room very noisy being so close to the road and we soon wished we had stayed elsewhere in Castleton. The staff were nice, but overall the experience has left a sour note with us and we would definitely rate this pub as one to be avoided.
anonymous - 5 Sep 2005 05:47 |
Stayed there March 2005 Breakfast OK, beds hard (twin room), rooms clean, no hot water in shower sat am OK sat after walk.
Lovely touch with poorly teddy and doctor left on bed, he! he!
Didn't like paying for whole week-end on arrival too pushy or untrustworthy of customers.
Pity they don't have a pass key for party revellers or drinkers checking out other pubs!
Had to be in at 11.45pm too early!
Breakfast staff on Sunday were very friendly food better then. TV reception good, plenty tea & coffee on request.
anonymous - 8 Mar 2005 13:12 |
I stayed at this pub for a weekend recently. The accomodation is significantly over-priced, and aspects of the service are at best idiosyncratic at worst bizarre. Give the cooked breakfast a miss unless you like bolied sausages!
timon - 8 Nov 2004 08:41 |
The Cheshire Cheese is always the first pub in Castleton I think of going for a pint after I have walked into the village after a mornings walk on the hills. The other pubs being OK. but it seems always to have a slight edge on them (though I am speaking as a drinker of real ale, not knowing anything about the food operations anywhere in the village.
frank - 23 Sep 2004 18:49 |
I visited this pub one summer a few years ago on a first visit to the Peak District. My partner & I didn't have a place booked to stay, and being a Saturday everywhere was full, but Ken gave us a caravan for the night with a breakfast, all free! Ad- mittedly, we did book for a week's stay with them, but we were extremely happy with the friendly welcome from Ken & Angie and all the staff. They even got my favourite Marmite especially for my toast. We have been back a few times since and will keep doing so. I would very highly recommend them to anyone. The area and village are beautiful to explore and relax in.
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