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Magnificence comes easily to The Makeney Hall Hotel with its grand Victorian Manor exterior and luxurious comforts that make it the perfect location for weddings and receptions as well as more formal business conventions. Set in 6 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens with breathtaking views across the Amber Valley, this Derbyshire hotel is also close to quite a few scenic walking trails.

The simple pleasures of life such as food and drink are highlighted in Dining at Makeney Hall Hotel which offers formal dining in a relaxed and serene environment. The à la carte and daily menus feature modern British cuisine with seasonal ingredients that bolster the freshness appeal immensely. Desserts are known for their high decadence rating and the wine list offers a decent selection, priced moderately.

Standing in the middle of the historic town of Belper, The Lion dates from the glory years of the cotton industry when Jedediah Strutt established the first cotton mill here in 1776.

Interestingly the dining facilities have been re-developed along the lines of a gastropub, called Twenty Four. At first the sophistication of polished wooden floors and leather sofas, with a contemporary menu is something of a shock, but it has been cleverly done and the bistro approach to eating makes for a relaxed atmosphere.

Amongst the starters look out for confit breaded pork belly, smoked salmon pillows, chorizo sausage and black pudding salad, and potato and leek chowder finished with flaked smoked haddock. Popular amongst the main courses is the lion club sandwich, not to be taken too literally, a crustacean risotto, and roast salmon tournedos with warm potato and caperberry salad. On Sundays a magnificent traditional roast is well received and it's advisable to book.

With 20 rooms and major attractions on every side The Lion meets its various clienteles more than halfway. Described as three star service with two star prices this attractive hostelry offers good value and quality on a plate.