DEAD CANARY

In the heart of Bakewell, a stone's throw from the rolling landscapes of the Peak District, The Dead Canary is a seafood restaurant that defies expectations. We offer a dining experience built on bold, seasonal flavors and a deep respect for the finest local produce. Stepping into our intimate space on Matlock Street you immediately sense something different — a warmth, a story, and a passion for food that has quickly made us a standout destination in Derbyshire. We don’t just serve meals; we craft memorable evenings that linger long after the last bite.

Chef Dale and host Louise have created a restaurant that is both refined and deeply personal. Our menu is a celebration of the Peak District’s bounty, changing its rhythm with the seasons. We work hand-in-hand with trusted nearby farms and suppliers to ensure that every plate we serve captures the peak of freshness. This isn’t a traditional fish-and-chips shop; it's an exploration of what exceptional seafood and game can taste like when prepared with care, creativity, and a dash of Welsh coal-mining heritage.

Why Customers Choose Us

Guests travel from across Bakewell and beyond for the unique atmosphere and uncompromising quality. A recent diner described their evening as “absolutely outstanding in every way,” praising Louise’s warm, professional hospitality and Chef Dale’s exquisite cooking. That sentiment is echoed time and again in reviews — visitors feel genuinely welcomed and cared for, whether they're local regulars or first-time tourists exploring the Peak District. This commitment to hospitality turns a dinner into an event.

We operate a Bring Your Own Alcohol policy, which is a detail our guests adore. It allows you to pair your favorite bottle of wine or champagne with our tasting menu without the typical markup, making a fine-dining experience feel both bespoke and approachable. Combine this with our attentive, knowledgeable service, and you have a formula that delivers exceptional value and a truly relaxed, celebratory mood.

A Menu Inspired by the Seasons

Our menu is a living document of the local landscape. We don’t believe in frozen standbys or predictable dishes. In spring, you might find delicate river fish and vibrant garden vegetables. As autumn arrives, we turn to hearty game and richer, deeper flavors. This creative approach means every visit to The Dead Canary offers a new discovery, a new favorite dish. We work tirelessly to ensure that every ingredient is at its absolute peak.

Seafood Towers & Tasting Experiences

We are renowned for our spectacular towers — both our Wild Game Tower and, naturally, our legendary Seafood Tower. These are not just meals; they are centerpiece experiences designed for sharing and gasping over. The Seafood Tower in particular, loaded with the freshest catches and house-made accompaniments, has become our signature. It perfectly embodies our philosophy: generous, high-quality, and beautifully presented.

Private Dining & Special Events

Our characterful restaurant provides an unforgettable backdrop for your most important occasions. From intimate wedding receptions and milestone birthdays to corporate gatherings, we create bespoke menus and experiences that reflect your personal style. We also host regular curated events, such as wine tastings and seasonal food celebrations, bringing together people who love exceptional flavors and great company. Whatever the occasion, our team is dedicated to making it feel personal and flawless.

Beyond the Plate: Our Story & Atmosphere

The Dead Canary is named after a real-life hero. Louise James named the restaurant in honor of her grandfather, Mr. Robert 'Bob' Williams, a Welsh coal miner in the Maerdy Pit. In 1977, his canary played a critical role in saving the lives of fellow miners. This story infuses our space with meaning — a tribute to the bravery of Welsh miners and a nod to the idea that small things can warn of danger. The decor, with its subtle, moody ambiance and soft French music, creates a romantic, speakeasy-like vibe that contrasts beautifully with the historic market town just outside our doors.

Serving Bakewell & the Peak District

We are proud to call Bakewell our home. Located at 16 Matlock Street, we are a short walk from the town center, making us a perfect destination for both locals and visitors exploring the Derbyshire Dales. After a day of hiking the Monsal Trail or touring Chatsworth House, our dining room offers a sophisticated sanctuary. We recommend booking in advance, especially for weekend evenings, as our intimate size and growing reputation mean tables fill quickly.

Hours, Location & Directions

We welcome guests for lunch and dinner service from Wednesday to Saturday. You can join us for a midday indulgence between 12pm and 3pm, or for our coveted evening service from 6pm to 9pm, with our last seating at 9pm. Finding us is simple: we’re prominently situated on Matlock Street, a main artery in Bakewell, with public transport options nearby and street parking available in the town. Our full address is 16 Matlock Street, Bakewell, DE45 1EE, United Kingdom.

Questions Visitors Ask

We know that planning a special meal comes with questions. While we operate a BYO alcohol policy, we are fully licensed to serve a range of non-alcoholic pairings and artisan soft drinks. Our menu is constantly evolving, so the best way to preview our current offerings is to visit our official website’s menu page. We also cater to dietary requirements with advance notice; simply contact our team when you book, and we will happily adjust our tasting menu to suit you. Reservations are essential and can be made directly through our website, where you can also purchase gift cards for a truly memorable present.