Winter Pub of the Season 2002
The Flying Childers Inn - Stanton-in-the-Peak.

Here was another case of history repeating itself as - just like the thoroughbred it’s named after - the pub was first past the post in a close-fought contest (ahead of a former Pub of the Year, the Speedwell). On presentation night last month there was subtle irony, as both the draught & bottled Townes’ offerings rapidly sold out: a choice of Wells’ Bombardier & Wychwood Shires soon followed. Confirmation, if needed, of the Childers as a beer drinkers’ pub par excellence.
To work up a thirst, a walk around the magical Stanton Moor is recommended. This is a plateau of millstone grit - marked with burial chambers & stone circles - possessing an air of mystery & timelessness, well described in Mike Harding’s book ‘Walking the Peak & Pennines’. This profound sense of place is shared at the Childers, created out of 4 cottages in the 18th century & named after the top racehorse owned by the 4th Duke of Devonshire.

Hosts John & Kate will have chalked up 20 years here in January 2003 – they are ably assisted by daughters Joanne & Sarah – ensuring the special qualities of the pub are preserved. As you enter, turn left for the lounge (leather seating) or right into the cosy bar, complete with wooden settles & a welcoming real fire. Both rooms are tastefully decorated with brass & local colour, but this is no mere museum piece: the ambience encourages locals & visitors alike to feel at home.

Snacks are available at lunchtime, though the emphasis is rightly on serving good beer at a reasonable price. To achieve this John tends to avoid stocking beers he considers over-priced – the clear benefit to beer drinkers (including John!) is that the regular turnover ensures a quality pint. Bottled beers, such as the Pynot Porter that went down a storm, have recently augmented the 2 or 3 ales available on hand pump.

‘The pub is the hub’ of the village (as HRH is wont to say) & haunt of the local cricket club (whose stalwarts look benignly down as you enjoy the atmosphere of the bar). And you’d be a right Charlie to miss out (note for Stella drinkers: there is currently a never-to-be-repeated choice of glasses dedicated for this purpose).

Try & time your visit better than Mr. Harding (he called during the lull between the lunch & evening sessions) to this deserved award-winner: a Real Pub for Real People.

Name: Flying Childers Inn.
Address: Main Rd, Stanton-in-the-Peak, Matlock, Derbyshire.  DE4 2LW
Tel: 01629 636333
Click here to see a map of the local area.

John Hassall

This webpage was last updated on Sunday, 07 October 2007