Nestled in the charming village of Darley Dale, just 4 miles north of Matlock in the heart of the Derbyshire Peak District, The Church Inn is a quintessential English country pub. Built from local stone, this traditional inn sits proudly opposite the village church, surrounded by cottage-style homes to the rear and open countryside to the front. A true country retreat, The Church Inn welcomes walkers with muddy boots, well-behaved dogs, and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Inside, you’ll find crackling fires, local cask ales, and a crowd of loyal locals and passing hikers alike. The pub is ideally situated just off the A6 road for easy car access, a short walk from Darley Dale Station on the heritage Peak Rail steam railway, within walking distance of several popular tourist campsites and well connected by regular local buses from Matlock.
As you enter the pub you are welcomed by two rooms. On one side a cosy lounge snug, featuring comfortable seating, hardwood tables, and an open fire—creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere ideal for relaxed drinks and conversation. The second room has a more traditional bar feel, with a spacious, open-plan layout, stone flooring, and wooden bench seating. A darts oche and TV add to the lively, social vibe, while ample space allows for vertical drinking. This area flows into a softer corner with two sofas, low tables, and a log-burning stove a real highlight that enhances the pub’s charm and comfort. To the rear, the pub boasts a private drinking yard with a designated smoking area, leading into a generously sized, enclosed beer garden—a valuable asset with huge potential, ideal for outdoor events and summer trade. At the front, just across the lane, there’s a large customer area featuring both tarmacked parking and a grassed picnic space dotted with tables—perfect for outdoor dining and drinks. This area enjoys a scenic backdrop, backing onto the steam railway line and a popular bridle path, offering excellent footfall and a unique rural charm.
Private Accommodation
Private accommodation consists of three bedrooms, bathroom and lounge. all of which is in good order.
Annual Rent: £23,500
Security Deposit: £6,000
Working Capital: £2,500
Stock: £2,500
Fixtures and Fittings: To be confirmed upon valuation – funding options may be available for the right licensee.
Business Rates: £Nil. Based on the April 2023 rating list, the Zero Rates Payable is based on small business rates relief being applied for by the licensee and the licensee only occupying one property for commercial purposes
Tie: All drinks categories are tied. For fully funded licensees on long term agreements, we offer free-of-tie options for certain drinks categories in exchange for an annual fee.
For a breakdown on financial information, please refer to the ‘Additional Info’ tab.
The Church Inn is looking for an enthusiastic and community-minded individual or couple to take on the exciting challenge of running this cherished village pub. This is a rare chance to become a central figure in village life offering year-round hospitality, organising local events, and creating a warm, welcoming community local. However, it requires a delicate balance, as it also involves effectively welcoming tourists, particularly during the summer months, which demands adeptness in social media and marketing. A genuine passion for real ale is essential, as is enthusiasm for developing a modest but appealing food menu. Building on the current small offering is key, with simple, traditional options such as pork pies, ploughman’s lunches, sandwiches, and Sunday hot roast baps with crisp roast potatoes and gravy.
Love Your Pub Group will send the above details on your behalf to your selected product provider(s)
Insurance disclaimer
Towergate Insurance Brokers is a trading name of Towergate Underwriting Group Limited. Registered in England No 4043759.
Registered address: 2 Minster Court, Mincing Lane, London EC3R 7PD. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Finance disclaimer
Portman Finance Group includes Portman Asset Finance Limited (Reg No: 06226530) which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for its credit broking activities and deals with a panel of lenders (FRN: 719988), Portman Leasing Limited (Reg No: 06797365) authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct for Consumer Hire lending (FRN: 723730) and Portman Commercial Finance Limited (Reg
No: 10011121). The companies within Portman Finance Group are all registered in England and Wales with registered offices: 1 Pavilion Court, 600 Pavilion Drive, Northampton, NN4 7SL
Mortgage disclaimer
The Mortgage Hut Limited is an appointed representative of Mortgage Advice Bureau Limited and Mortgage Advice Bureau (Derby) Limited which are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. The Mortgage Hut Limited. Registered Office: Ground Floor, Threefield House, Threefield Lane, Southampton, Hampshire, SO14 3LP Registered in England Number: 07629941
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. There may be a fee for mortgage advice. The actual amount you pay will depend upon your circumstances. The fee is up to 1.5%, but a typical fee is 0.3% of the amount borrowed.
MISREPRESENTATION ACT 1967
The Love Your Pub Group gives notice that the contents of these particulars are believed to be correct but are given without responsibility and intending purchasers or lessees should satisfy themselves by inspection or otherwise to their correctness. These particulars do not form any part of any offer or contract and no person in the employment of the company has any authority to make or give representation of warranty to this property.