Hidden Gem: Discovering The Lighthouse in Boylestone
Tucked away in the quiet village of Boylestone, The Lighthouse is the kind of restaurant that whispers rather than shouts. There’s no flashy signage, no gimmicks, and no need for either. Word travels quickly when the food speaks this confidently for itself.
At first glance, its setting is almost disarmingly modest, housed within what was once a traditional village pub. Step inside, though, and the balance between old and new becomes clear. A cosy atmosphere and oak beams meet clean lines and considered touches, creating a space that feels intimate, warm, and quietly assured. Every detail has been thought through, from the soft lighting to the unhurried pace of the evening.
The Lighthouse has earned a reputation as one of Derbyshire’s most thoughtful dining experiences. Its multi-course menus are curated daily, led by what’s best, freshest, and most inspiring at the time. There’s no à la carte, no rigid path—just a journey through dishes that are purposeful, precise, and deeply rooted in seasonality.
Plates here are elegant and deliberate, every ingredient earning its place. One moment you might find yourself tasting a coconut and chilli broth that hums with warmth, the next, a delicate tartlet of Tunworth cheese with tomato kimchi chutney. Japanese inspiration threads through several courses on their current menu - think tuna tostada or the impossibly soft milk bread served with burnt leek butter - while others celebrate British produce in inventive ways, from Derbyshire beef fillet with smoked shiitake and pickled courgette to a parfait of duck liver with plum. Desserts are as thoughtful as the savoury courses: blackcurrant and Thai basil balanced by yoghurt and peanut, or a final flourish of blood peach with almond and lemon verbena. Each dish feels both rooted and refined, with an artistry that never overshadows flavour.
In addition to its celebrated tasting menus, The Lighthouse recently introduced a midweek option that brings its culinary artistry to a wider audience. This concise menu offers a curated selection that changes regularly to reflect the season and the chef’s current inspirations. It’s an ideal introduction for first-time visitors or a midweek escape for returning diners—always refined, never rushed.
Dining at The Lighthouse feels like an event in itself, not a meal to hurry through but one to linger over. With limited covers each evening, guests are encouraged to savour, to talk, to take their time. Wine pairings are selected with care, yet you might equally be guided toward a locally brewed cider or a small-batch Derbyshire spirit. It’s polished but never pretentious.
Perhaps what defines The Lighthouse most is its quiet confidence. In a world of performative dining, this is a restaurant that values stillness and sincerity. There’s no Instagram theatre, no unnecessary embellishment - just real food, cooked perfectly, and served with care.
That authenticity has earned The Lighthouse a loyal following, both from locals and those who travel from further afield. With its small, passionate team and unwavering focus on quality over quantity, it stands as a reminder that some of the most memorable meals are found in the most unassuming places.
Learn More: www.the-lighthouse-restaurant.co.uk
