The Elm Tree Bar and Kitchen

Swathed in ivy with two gabled windows peeping from the roof, The Elm Tree is a sight for motorway-sore eyes. Owners Chris and Jean ploughed heaps of energy into transforming a rather standard pub into something special; their culinary skills and always-fresh ingredients have proved to be a magical combination.

A friendly reception awaits everybody in this low-beamed, cosy inn. 'Pub classics done well' fill the menu, which is tailored to seasonal abundance and has traceability at its heart. Think prawn cocktail with smoked salmon, award-winning beef burgers, wild mushroom and stilton risotto and hearty steak and ale pie. Portion sizes veer towards the generous and The Elm Tree's homemade desserts are not to be overlooked. In summer, enjoy a homemade ice cream on the rustic terrace with its chunky tables and festoon lighting. The traditional, Prosecco and gluten-free afternoon teas are highly recommended: the perfect prelude to a visit to Bolsover's astonishing castle.