Last month, one of Bakewell’s most prominent historic buildings came back to life. The former Royal Bank of Scotland building in Rutland Square, a Grade II-listed property dating back to 1838, stood empty since 2022, leaving one of the town’s best-known landmarks without a purpose.
So, on June 28th 2026, after almost four years of anticipation and one hell of a refurbishment project, Longbow’s director, Rob Hattersley, opened the doors to something not only unique, but truly personal. It’s more than just a new venue for Bakewell; it’s more of a homecoming. The ambitious redevelopment has created a two-storey venue with space for up to 160 diners, a terrace, live music, and the Speakeasy private dining room within the original bank vault.
Stepping through the grand entrance is like entering the 1920s, lovingly adorned with stained glass, smoked mirrors, brass, and gold. Yet it’s not just simply nostalgic; it’s so much more than that. It truly feels like a unique destination, where the ambience, menu, hospitality and the sheer gravitas of the building all create an experience people will no doubt seek out, whilst feeling there’s now a new, special heartbeat in the area.
Stood perusing the bar selection, the staff were very welcoming. Front-of-House, Harriet warmly showed us to our table, whilst Grace got shaking those much-needed cocktails (it was 30 degrees outside, after all).
The menu, expertly curated by head chef Chris Parker and group executive chef Adrian Gagea, is far beyond standard pub fare; it’s a grand and elevated menu that’s both refined and exciting, yet firmly rooted in Derbyshire’s ingredients and local suppliers. It’s certainly a menu that champions an array of local bounty; with each ingredient chosen to let freshness and quality speak for itself. The drinks menu is incredibly varied, featuring local beers from Thornbridge, a few firm lager favourites, and an extensive wine list. The cocktail list is equally thoughtful, premium but playful, from spicy margaritas, espresso martinis, grasshoppers to a rhubarb spritz. There is also a vast array of no alcohol options and alcohol-free cocktails. The brunch selection is dazzling – dishes like Florentine Gatsby waffles, Turkish eggs, superfood salads, while small plates like pork belly bites and big plates like crispy pork chop, fish tacos and buttermilk chicken waffle sandwiches ensure every bite is an event. Dining here means savouring a taste, in every sense, surrounded by a 1920s magic.
My dining companion and I opted for a wonderful spread: poached halibut in caper beurre blanc, sea herbs and crispy vegetables. A twice-baked cheddar soufflé with rocket and herb oil. ‘The Benedict Twist’, which comprises tea-smoked duck pastrami, poached eggs and chimichurri. A shakshuka with quail eggs, prawns and squid with toasted sourdough. For desserts we opted for the flourless brownie and the Szechuan peppercorn Eton Mess.
The poached halibut arrived as a centrepiece of elegance. The fish was incredibly fresh, with a firm yet flaking texture. Each bite delivered a subtle sweetness, which was elevated by a velvety caper beurre blanc sauce that struck the perfect balance between richness and a welcome tang. The vegetables were crisp and vibrant, bringing a summery brightness to the plate. The dish felt like a light yet indulgent journey, with every forkful offering a balance of delicate flavours.
“The Charleston proves that some eras never really fade; they simply find a new rhythm.”
The twice-baked cheddar soufflé: light, airy, yet deeply savoury. The soufflé had that earthy richness from the cheddar, with a golden exterior giving way to a fluffy, melt-in-the-mouth interior. It was paired with a creamy cheese sauce that was comforting yet not heavy, while the peppery rocket salad added a fresh bite to the plate. The whole dish was a masterclass in balancing decadence with lightness – a perfect fit for the season!
The Benedict Twist was sublime. The tea-smoked duck pastrami that melted in the mouth, yet was sweet and smoky, layered atop a fresh, spongy English muffin. The poached eggs were silky and perfectly cooked. Breaking the yolk, it cascaded into that vibrant chimichurri, which was loaded with fresh flavour. Each bite was a real harmony of smoky, savoury, and bright flavours.
The shakshuka brought an Eastern warmth. The rich, spiced tomato and pepper stew was naturally sweet, bold and vibrant in flavour. You can’t resist but tearing off a piece of that warm, charred sourdough and submerging it into the sauce – foodie heaven! The quail eggs were soft and perfectly cooked, adding a delicate creaminess to the dish. The king prawns and baby squid were tender but had that fresh, reassuring bite. The prawns in particular were really nicely cooked, plump and meaty. Again, always aware of the fresh ingredients on display here.
The flourless brownie was a pure indulgence, yet surprisingly light due to the balance of fruit and sharp flavours. It’s a rich, velvety chocolate, but expertly balanced by bursts of refreshing mango. The matcha mousse (something I’ve never had!) was superb, adding a creamy, slightly earthy note, while the raspberry jus brought a sharp zing. Every spoonful was a contrast of warm, soft brownie and bright fruity flavour. Warm chocolate, cold fruit – pure delight! I wouldn’t say I’m a home ‘sweet’ person… I’m a convert now.
The Szechuan peppercorn Eton Mess was an inventive twist on a classic and no doubt unlike any Eton Mess you’ve ever had! It was feathery light; creamy layers of cream were punctuated by bright citrus notes from lemon curd and the sweet snap of meringue. Fresh (and I mean fresh!) strawberries and blueberries added bursts of sharp sweetness, while the subtle Szechuan peppercorn left a gentle tingle, making each spoonful both familiar and intriguingly new.
With satisfied appetites and a final sip of our cocktails, we reluctantly made our way back into the real world, leaving behind an afternoon that felt more like a step into the glamour of the 1920s than a simple meal out.
As you step away, out of the tall doors and grandiose exterior, there’s a lingering feeling that you’ve been part of something truly special here. The Charleston, like its siblings, is familiar yet distinct. It’s a place where history, craft and innovation meet, and where, looking around fellow happy diners, you’re aware that every visit is a memory in the making.
For Derbyshire, this is a jewel – an invitation to slow down, indulge, and savour something far beyond the ordinary. As it flourishes, it will no doubt keep offering those little moments of magic. A place where Derbyshire’s heart beats to a 1920s rhythm, and deliciously so. And long may it shine!
