What’s On
Stay up to date with everything happening at The Carpenters Arms in our What’s On section. Here you’ll find all the latest news, including upcoming events such as our popular Classic Car Show, special dates like Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, and announcements about our motorhome and caravan stopovers.
Whether you’re planning your next visit or just curious about what’s coming up, this is the place to find all the latest updates.
🌿 The Hermit’s Cave – A Hidden Gem of History & Mystery
Tucked away in the enchanting Hermits Wood beside the village of Dale Abbey lies one of Derbyshire’s most fascinating secrets — The Hermit’s Cave, also known as The Hermitage.
Step back in time to around 1130 AD, when a humble baker from Derby named Cornelius followed a divine vision and carved this cave into the hillside of what was once called Deepdale. Leaving behind everyday life, he made this peaceful sanctuary his home and place of worship, living there in solitude for nearly 20 years.
Today, the cave still whispers its ancient story — a spiritual hideaway wrapped in ivy, shaded by woodland, and steeped in centuries of wonder. It’s a magical stop on any local walk and a perfect place to pause, reflect, and let your imagination wander.
✨ Just a short stroll from us… ✨
Did you know the Dale Abbey Arch is no more than a good 2-minute walk from The Carpenters Arms? 🍻
If you’re lucky, you might even catch something truly magical – like this incredible shot of the Aurora Borealis over the Arch, captured by our very own team member, Phillip. 🌌💜💚
Why not pop in for a drink or a bite to eat, then take a wander up to see one of Derbyshire’s hidden gems for yourself?
📍 History, beauty, and a pint waiting for you – all right here at Dale Abbey.
You can see more of Phillip’s work on his website :
Phillip William Jenner Photography
Facebook
✨ Did You Know? ✨
The Derbyshire Nomad Way – a 50-mile walking route – starts right outside our front doors here at The Carpenters Arms, Dale Abbey! 🚶♂️🍃
It’s the perfect adventure for walkers wanting to explore the beauty of Derbyshire, and you don’t even have to go far to begin your journey.
We’ve linked more information below if you’d like to learn more about the route 👇
📍 Start your walk with us – or finish it with a well-earned pint and a hearty meal! 🍺🍴
The Derbyshire Nomad Way
🚗 The Carpenters Arms Classic Car & Motorbike Meet
Every Two Weeks – From 10:30am
Rev up your Sunday with a proper feast for the senses at our Classic Car & Motorbike Show, held every two weeks right here at The Carpenters Arms!
From vintage icons to modern marvels, our meet welcomes an incredible mix of vehicles — lovingly polished classics, roaring café racers, rare restorations, quirky oddballs, and everything in between. It’s not unusual to see a row of 1950s Morris Minors, chrome-laden Triumphs, 60s Mustangs, Mk1 Escorts, and even the occasional Jaguar E-Type gleaming in the sun.
Motorbike fans, you’re in for a treat too — from BSA and Norton beauties, to sleek Hondas, thumping Harleys, and custom choppers that turn heads with every rev.
Whether you're showcasing your pride and joy or just coming to admire the line-up, it’s a brilliant day out for petrolheads and families alike.
🚙 Breakfast rolls and hot drinks are served from 10:30am, fresh off the grill and perfect to enjoy while you chat motors, swap stories, or simply wander through automotive history in motion.
🚗 Classic Cars at The Carpenters – Winter 2025/26 🚙
Join us this winter at The Carpenters Arms, Dale Abbey for our much-loved Classic Cars Meets!
Whether you own a Classic, Vintage, Veteran or just an interesting car, bike, bus, truck, tractor, or even a military vehicle – you’ll always receive a warm welcome.
🕙 When?
Sundays, 10.00am – 2.00pm
With our Breakfast Menu available from 10.30am
📅 Winter 2025/26 Dates
October: 12th & 26th
November: 9th & 30th
December: 14th & 28th
January: 11th & 25th
February: 8th & 22nd
March: 8th & 29th
🍳 Why Visit?
A great day out for car enthusiasts and families alike
Fantastic breakfast and pub menu served fresh
A friendly atmosphere with plenty of conversation, cars, and community
📍 The Carpenters Arms, Dale Abbey
Come along, bring your pride and joy, and enjoy a brilliant Sunday with us!
🔥 Tickets Now on Sale! 🔥
The wait is over — Bonfire Night at The Carpenters Arms is back and bigger than ever! 🎆
Join us on Wednesday 5th November for an incredible Bonfire & Firework Display, plus our famous Hog Roast, BBQ, and local stalls.
🎶 We’re thrilled to welcome back Apollo DJ, keeping the tunes flowing and the atmosphere buzzing all night long!
🎟️ Tickets:
Adults – £10
Children – £7
Family – £30
📞 To book: Call us on 0115 932 5277
💰 Tickets are also available in person (cash only) at The Rustic Bear, Seven Oaks Inn, Stanton by Dale.
This year’s event is proudly in conjunction with The Rustic Bear, and it’s shaping up to be our best night yet.
Don’t miss one of Dale Abbey’s biggest nights of the year — it’s going to be explosive! 💥🔥
