Chesterfield News

2026 Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards,

Two Chesterfield Champions named finalists at Visit England Awards

Two Chesterfield Champions, Peak Edge Hotel and The Tickled Trout, have both been named as finalists in the Visit England Awards for Excellence 2026, recognising their outstanding contribution to England’s tourism and hospitality sector.

Nestled on the edge of the Peak District, Peak Edge Hotel has been shortlisted in the Small Hotel of the Year category. It is a relaxed rural retreat known for its warm hospitality and personal service. The hotel features stylish rooms and an award-winning two AA Rosette Red Lion Restaurant, which focuses on farm-to-table dining using produce from its own Red Tractor-accredited farm.

Mark Thurman, Managing Director, Peak Edge Hotel and Casa Hotel, said:

“We’re absolutely delighted to be named a finalist in the Visit England Awards for Excellence. It means a huge amount to the whole team and reflects the care and consistency that goes into everything we do.

At Peak Edge, our focus is on creating a complete guest experience – from genuine farm-to-plate dining using produce from our own Red Tractor certified Walton Lodge Farm Estate just minutes away, through to the atmosphere, service and overall feel of the hotel. We’re always looking at ways to evolve and improve, while keeping that sense of warmth and authenticity at the heart of it.

To be recognised on a national stage like this is something we’re incredibly proud of, and a great opportunity to showcase the Peak District.”

Peak edge couple

Meanwhile, The Tickled Trout in Barlow, also a two AA rosette restaurant, has been shortlisted in the prestigious Pub of the Year category.

Led by Chef Patron Chris Mapp, the pub is known for its focus on quality, provenance and seasonal cooking, helping to strengthen Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire’s reputation as a leading food and drink destination.

Chris Mapp, Owner of The Tickled Trout in Barlow, said:

“We are absolutely delighted to be named a finalist in the Visit England Awards for Excellence. It is a huge honour to be recognised on a national stage and reflects the hard work and dedication of our entire team. We are incredibly proud to represent Barlow and the wider Chesterfield area.”

The tickled trout

The national awards celebrate the very best in England’s tourism and hospitality industry, recognising businesses that consistently deliver exceptional quality and visitor experience.

The winners of the Visit England Awards for Excellence 2026 will be announced at a national ceremony on Thursday, 11th June 2026, bringing together leading tourism and hospitality businesses from across the country.

To explore more independent places to eat and drink, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/eating-out


Peak Edge Hotel, and The Tickled Trout are two of over 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.

Find out more about our Champions network.

Alex Baddley

Content Creator

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