The George, Alstonefield, ASHBOURNE, DE6 2FX [Map]
01335 310205http://www.thegeorgeatalstonefield.com/ 
11-15, 18:30 (19 winter)-23 MO-FR; 11-23SA; 12-22:30 SU
Car Park, Evening Meals, Real Fire, Beer Garden, Lunchtime Meals, Quiet Bar

Friends and I outside the George, January 2001

A beautiful pub situated by the green in a picturesque hamlet not far from the A515 Ashbourne to Buxton road. A simple low-beamed bar with little tables that'll just fit 4 plates and drinks at a push. Certainly worth getting there early if you're after Sunday lunch as the pub fills very quickly. A very mixed clientele composed of locals, local hikers and folk from further afield.

A good selection of photos and pictures of the Peak District adorn the walls. Great food. It is reasonably priced, a simple menu but clearly it is home-cooked and the portions are generous and you have to order it at the kitchen door.

Beerwise it's Burtonwood, brewed in Cheshire, nice stuff. They didn't have Top Hat, but the Forshaws (abv. 4.0%), a well-balanced bitter is certainly a good alternative.

The pub's just a short walk away from Dovedale, one of the most scenic parts of the Peak District. If you're stuck for somewhere to stay in the Peak District, you could always call the landlord, as he'll probably let you camp around the back of the pub.