Independent Peak District hospitality group Longbow Venues has celebrated a remarkable night of success at the 2025 Westside & Southside Restaurant & Bar Awards, taking home three major accolades that highlight the group’s continued commitment to quality, local produce, and genuine hospitality.
The Westside & Southside Restaurant & Bar Awards are run by Westside Magazine and celebrate the best restaurants, pubs and bars across Sheffield and North Derbyshire. Winners are selected by an independent panel of industry judges (with a Readers’ Choice category.
The glittering awards evening, which was held at the OEC Sheffield on Monday 27 October 2025, saw Longbow’s venues recognised across several key categories:
• Restaurant of the Year - The Peacock at Rowsley (for the second year running)
• Best Sunday Lunch - The Ashford Arms, Bakewell (for the second year running)
• Best Family Favourite - The Maynard, Grindleford
On top of that, the group’s The Peacock at Owler Bar was a finalist for Best Dining Pub and The George at Hathersage was a finalist for Best Hotel Restaurant.
In a show of appreciation, Longbow Venues founder and managing director Rob Hattersley brought more than 50 team members to the ceremony - colleagues from all venues alongside the marketing, accounts, and recruitment teams - so they could celebrate the achievements together.
Longbow Venues founder and managing director Rob Hattersley said:
“We’re absolutely thrilled to see three of our venues recognised at this year’s awards. These wins are a huge credit to our amazing teams - from chefs and front-of-house to the people behind the scenes who make every guest experience special. It meant a lot to bring more than 50 of our colleagues with us on the night to say thank you and celebrate what they do every day.
“The Peak District is home to some incredible hospitality businesses, so to be named among the best is an honour. We’re proud to be flying the flag for independent venues that focus on genuine hospitality, local produce, and exceptional food without the faff.”
About the winning venues
The Peacock at Rowsley - One of the Peak District’s most cherished boutique hotels and fine dining restaurants, The Peacock holds four Silver AA Stars and three AA Rosettes. It offers refined yet accessible dining that champions local produce and craftsmanship.
The Ashford Arms, Bakewell - Reopened in 2024 after a full restoration by Longbow Venues, this historic inn with rooms has won Best Sunday Lunch for the second consecutive year, thanks to its welcoming atmosphere, seasonal dishes, and focus on modern pub dining done exceptionally well.
The Maynard, Grindleford - Set in the heart of the Hope Valley, The Maynard is an award-winning country hotel, restaurant, and wedding venue that has become a true family favourite. With its beautiful setting, locally inspired menu, and warm, inclusive ethos, it’s a go-to for everything from Sunday roasts to special celebrations.
Longbow Venues operates The Ashford Arms, The Peacock at Rowsley, The Maynard, The George in Hathersage, The Peacock at Owler Bar, and The Charleston, a new 1920s-inspired restaurant and bar opening in Bakewell in 2026.
For more information on Longbow Venues, visit longbowvenues.com.
