The Royal Oak in Ashbourne offers 18th-century charm with hearty home-cooked meals. Rated 4.4 with 664 reviews, ideal for walkers near Wetton.
A charming 18th-century inn appreciated for its hearty, home-cooked food and friendly, welcoming atmosphere, ideal for walkers and visitors seeking a cozy pub experience.
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Rooms, shared spaces, dining and exterior — grouped so you can skim quickly.
Situated on Royal Oak Road in Wetton, Ashbourne, The Royal Oak is an 18th-century inn that combines traditional charm with a welcoming atmosphere. Offering a mix of inn, hotel, bar, pub, and restaurant facilities, it caters to walkers and visitors looking for a comfortable stop in the countryside. The presence of a sun lounge adds a relaxed space for guests to unwind.
The inn is well-regarded for its hearty, home-cooked food, especially its homemade hams and pies, which many guests praise for their quality and flavour. Reviewers often mention the warm fires that provide a cosy retreat after outdoor activities such as walks in the nearby area. The menu also includes gluten-free options, accommodating dietary needs thoughtfully.
Customer service stands out as a strong point, with frequent compliments about friendly and attentive staff who create a hospitable environment. The venue welcomes dogs, making it a practical choice for walkers exploring the surrounding countryside. Prices for main meals generally fall in the mid-range category, reflecting the focus on homemade, well-prepared dishes.
Although some comments note the inclusion of a service charge on bills, the majority of guest feedback highlights the inn’s traditional village pub vibe and genuine hospitality. The Royal Oak suits travellers seeking a down-to-earth, friendly setting with quality food in a rural location.
Reviews from travelers who stayed here in the last 12 months, grouped to help you spot the pattern quickly.
Stopped in today after our walk around Thors cave, and everything was lovely! We were sopping wet and cold and they sat us next to a lovely fire which warmed us right up. They were prompt to take our food and drinks orders and (as you can see from the photo attached) the food was absolutely delicious and perfect after a long walk. It was just what I needed to warm up. I would definitely come here again. The owners were lovely and friendly :))
Absolutely top notch food and service in the Royal Oak yesterday. I've been here a few times and everything is always excellent. We had food last night and although they were busy and expecting a large party in they said if you order quick we'll get your food out before the party. Well we were well impressed, everything was cooked well and presented in a fantastic fashion. All the staff were friendly and welcoming. What an awesome pub! Thank you.
Amazing pub. Excellent food. Excellent fires. Lovely hosts. 10/10
Really lovely pub - tasty, proper home cooked food and a lovely warm atmosphere. We’ll definitely be back.
This pub is what every local should feel like! The food was top notch, hearty and properly home made. The staff were knowledgeable and provided a warm and wonderful welcome.Support and visit this gorgeous pub ran by a hard working family if in luck you may catch Blake, this lovely senior boy.
They fit us in as a large group for a pub lunch after a lovely walk nearby and were so welcoming/friendly - thankyou! Excellent staff, good food menu and dog friendly too
Came for a meal on Easter Sunday after a lovely walk. I pre-booked as I thought it would be busy as there were 6 of us, so glad I did! The food was all homemade and tasted superb, very efficient and friendly staff. A lovely old traditional village pub. Also nice to see Gluten Free alternatives which was perfect for my daughter as she is Coeliac. Just read some of the reviews on here and I am flabbergasted at what negative picky comments people put!! Keep doing what you’re doing and ignore the negative nancys!
Cannot rate this place enough. Last night we had a sirloin steak cooked to perfection, and the chicken, ham and leak pie which safe to say was one of the best homemade pies Ive had in a long time. The waitress/barmaid was so polite, updating us that there was a large table and checking in that we were OK. Genuinely, such a friendly atmosphere, excellent staff, and superb quality food. This is not your average country pub; its better. And the local beer!? You have to try it!
2pm Friday in winter. Nice atmosphere and warm. Barman was welcoming and friendly. Prices were £15-18 for a main, which I've come to expect in food pubs now. Feedback: Let customers choose their own tip rather than reloading the bill with 10% service charge. That assumption leaves a bad taste and also stops people adding a few quid extra when service is great!
Called there this lunch time with my friend this lunch time, a great friendly welcome great food very good I will be revisiting
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