There’s not many places that could happily cater for a boozy afternoon of beers, a romantic date night for couples and a family friendly meal all at the same time. The Dragon can, and then some, as there’s even several stunning rooms to stay in too for that gorgeous countryside getaway. How? Having a  70 seater restaurant, snug, beautiful conservatory, extensive bar, a beaut’ of a beer garden equipped with three private dining domes and seven gorgeous rooms in an adjoining cottage certainly helps!

Found in the heart of Willington village and backing onto the Trent and Mersey canal, the 150 year old pub is a favourite with locals and visitors alike and it’s not hard to see why with a space and the food to match your every mood. Offering all day dining (from champagne breakfast to working lunch to afternoon tea to dinner), Head Chefs, Chris Blincoe and Tom Pittham, have compiled a mouth-watering seasonal menu of contemporary dishes (Sticky Korean beef short rib with wasabi and pear purée) to steadfast classics (10oz Gammon with hand cut chips, fried eggs and pineapple chutney). If all that wasn’t enough, they do tapas nights and a stellar Sunday roast too.

For the out of towners (or those who’ve eaten too much and need to be rolled a short distance to bed) there’s The Cottage just next door to The Dragon with seven plush, cosy rooms to choose from. Each are individually designed and come equipped with tea and coffee making facilities, flat screen TV, WiFi, toiletries as well as the choice of double, king-sized or twin beds. With so many walks on the doorstep and the wonderful Derbyshire countryside around you it would be a shame to leave your beloved pooch at home. Thankfully The Dragon is dog-friendly too so your four-legged friend doesn’t have to miss out.

Ticking all the boxes – book me into The Dragon stat!