Peak Edge, the independent four-star countryside retreat located on the edge of the Peak District, has reported impressive year-on-year growth across all areas of its business — a notable achievement at a time when much of the UK hospitality sector is seeing little or no growth.
Between 1 October 2024 and 31 July 2025, the hotel recorded:
- +15% increase in beverage revenue at The Red Lion Restaurant & Bar
- +9% growth in food revenue
- +26% rise in venue-hire income from weddings and events
- +9.4% uplift in accommodation revenue
Despite broader industry challenges, demand at Peak Edge remains consistently strong. The hotel continues to invest in elevating the guest experience through premium service, quality local produce, and thoughtful design.
Like many businesses in the sector, however, translating record revenue into profit has proven complex. Rising food costs, increased employer National Insurance contributions, changes to tax thresholds, and ongoing energy and supplier price inflation continue to place pressure on margins.
Nevertheless, the results highlight how Peak Edge’s commitment to provenance, personal service, and memorable experiences continues to resonate with guests, reinforcing its reputation as one of the region’s most successful independent hotels.
Why Peak Edge is performing well:
- Farm-to-fork dining guests trust: The Red Lion’s menus are anchored in produce from Walton Lodge Farm (the hotel’s own 360-acre, Red Tractor–accredited estate minutes away) – native-breed meats, honey, eggs, fruit and vegetables.
- Immersive wine and beverage experiences: A new walk-in wine cellar, designed by Sorrells (June 2025), has already lifted wine sales by 24%. A premium alcohol-free range supports wellness travellers and corporate guests.
- Experience-led packages: Offerings such as Peaks & Plates (a gourmet walking retreat), e-bike tours and the Classic Car Gourmet Escape have encouraged longer stays and higher per-guest spend.
- Weddings and events strength: Rustic-luxe spaces, personalised planning and farm-to-fork menus continue to set Peak Edge apart, reflected in the 26% venue-hire uplift.
- Sustainability and inclusivity: EV chargers, biodiversity projects, low-waste menu planning and improved accessibility help the hotel appeal to mindful, modern travellers.
Mark Thurman, Managing Director at Peak Edge Hotel, said:
“The wider UK hospitality sector has faced real pressures over the past year, from rising costs to softer consumer spending. These results show that when you focus on authenticity, provenance and personal service, guests still want to spend. Our setting on the edge of the Peak District, our farm-to-fork dining and the care our team puts into every experience are clearly resonating. Revenue is growing across rooms, restaurants and events, yet higher operating costs mean growth does not automatically translate into higher profit, so we are being rigorous about value and efficiency.”
Steve Perez, Owner of Peak Edge Hotel and Walton Lodge Farm, added:
“This hotel and the landscape around it are part of my family story and that sense of place runs through everything we do. Demand is strong and revenue is up, but margins are tight. We have seen significant percentage increases in food costs alongside energy and supplier inflation. Recent government tax changes announced in last year’s Budget, including higher employer National Insurance and threshold changes, have also added pressure. As a result, we have paused our plans to build additional bedrooms and a spa. The designs are ready and we remain committed to growing Peak Edge when market conditions improve.”
Dating back to 1788, Peak Edge blends rustic heritage and stonework with contemporary comfort across 27 individually designed rooms and award-winning dining. Its consistent five-star reviews, immersive new wine cellar, and personalised guest service have helped it buck the trend and build momentum when many UK operators are facing headwinds.
Peak Edge can be found on Darley Road, Stone Edge, a few minutes from Chesterfield. For more information, visit peakedgehotel.co.uk.