The Merchant’s Yard: From 1930s Hardware Store to Boutique Stay
The Merchant’s Yard in Tideswell has a charm that you feel as soon as you arrive. Part of that comes from its story. On 1 March 1935, Maurice Markovitz bought the building for £1,200 from Tideswell and Miller’s Dale Coal and General Merchant’s Company Ltd. At the time he was running a bicycle and repair business and saw an opportunity to expand into hardware and building materials. He never married or had children, but his nephew Brian joined him in 1953 and helped grow the company. By 1995 the business had expanded so much that it moved to larger premises, though the family kept hold of the original building.
From those early days, the Markovitz Group has grown into a national company trading from 25 depots. I imagine Maurice never pictured his hardware store eventually becoming an award-winning restaurant with rooms. It is still family-owned and run by his great nephews and the sense of pride in the building’s past is clear, with pieces of memorabilia used throughout the interiors. It adds depth and character without feeling staged.
Parking space at The Merchant’s Yard
I had a parking space waiting for me with my name printed on a sign, which immediately made me feel welcome. Inside, the fresh flowers and the warmth of the team made it feel like stepping into a much-loved home rather than a restaurant with rooms.
The eight bedrooms are all on the ground floor and are beautifully spacious. Huge beds with soft herringbone headboards, wooden side tables, great lighting and blinds that respond at the touch of a button. Large bathrooms include walk-in showers and some also feature freestanding baths (though no flannels, they promised me they will be in place in the New Year). A diffuser adds a soft fragrance, and the other small but important details are usually reserved for boutique hotels: crisp Egyptian cotton bed linen, fridge with Harrogate water, milk and a treat as well as bath robes and a proper desk with a light-up mirror.
The bar is a lively spot, and the cocktail and wine list are great value; two for £12 on Thursdays is a nice midweek treat, and lovely Matt and Laura looked after everyone with real warmth. Chef Mark’s homemade rolls arrive warm, and his menu focuses on favourites done well, think chicken liver parfait, sticky toffee pudding, steak and ale pie and plenty more. There are quiet corners with sofas where you can sit with a book or catch up on work without feeling rushed.
Breakfast is staggered from 7.30, and there are plenty of favourites on the menu including dippy egg and soldiers, full English, eggs Benedict, creamy porridge, pastries and sourdough. If you stay on a Friday you can have a lie-in and opt for brunch instead of breakfast - the perfect weekend treat.
The Merchant’s Yard feels rooted in its past yet focused on proper hospitality today - it also makes a fantastic wedding venue, seating up to 70 people. It’s sincere, well-run and full of character with a great team behind it. A thoughtful family project that has evolved from a 1930s hardware store into a place I will happily return to.
Why go? Great food, lovely rooms and wonderful hospitality. The perfect base for exploring the Peak District.