This review was published in March 2026; prices and menus may have changed. See current Harpurs Bistro information.
Review: Harpur’s Bistro at University of Derby
Harpur’s Bistro feels like one of Buxton’s best kept secrets. Tucked away inside what is arguably Buxton’s most spectacular building, the Devonshire Dome, the bistro is a training ground for Hospitality and Catering students from the University of Derby. Under the watchful eyes of world-class chefs and restaurant professionals, the students cooked and served a three-course meal for £15 per person at the time of this review. Lots of people have already caught on to what has perhaps become the town’s top lunch deal. We booked in to find out what all the fuss is about.
On our visit, we booked in advance, signed in and were given identification badges. The university asks guests to check in at campus reception; check the latest arrival instructions when booking.
Harpurs Bistro is open for lunch Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday lunch times, during term time. Don’t let the admin put you off, making a booking is not only the gateway to a magnificent culinary experience, but you also get a jaw-dropping glimpse of the interior of the historic dome. The building began as stables for the Duke of Devonshire in the late 1700s. Part became a hospital in 1859 and the dome was added later. The hospital, which provided hydrotherapy, closed in 2000.
According to the university, the name recalls High Peak Catering College, formerly based at Harpur Hill.
Once shown into the bistro itself, the dining experience becomes a bit more like what you would expect; you are greeted, coats are taken, you are shown to a table, and menus are handed out. The interior of the bistro is grand yet modern, spacious yet intimate. There’s a subtle nod to the rich heritage of the place, huge mirrors reflecting the light from original windows. You get the hint you’re in for something special.
On our visit, the three-course lunch followed an “American Diner” theme. Menus change, so check the university’s current listings before booking.
It’s worth noting that the food here is prepared by students as part of their professional training – but don’t let that fool you. These are talented chefs-in-the-making, learning to cook and serve to an exceptionally high standard under the guidance of experienced professionals. Many will go on to become the famed chefs of tomorrow. In fact, if nobody mentioned it, you’d likely assume the dishes were coming from a top restaurant kitchen.
We thought the dishes were a cut above many restaurants we’ve been to. Our Tuesday meal was prepared by first-year students; the review originally noted different course levels on other days.
Our menu was focused, with two choices for each course. The dishes reflected the students’ hospitality and catering training.
While options for vegans, vegetarians or other dietary requirements may be limited on some days, the menu changes regularly throughout the week. It’s worth checking online in advance, as visiting on a different day may offer a selection that suits your preferences even better.
The service matched the quality of the food. Students take turns working both front-of-house and in the kitchen, gaining valuable experience in every part of restaurant life. While some of the waiting staff are understandably a little nervous at first, they were consistently polite, friendly and attentive. Water was brought to the table and promptly refilled without needing to ask, and staff checked in with each course to make sure everything was just right. In fact, the level of care and attentiveness means the service – like the food – often surpasses what you might expect at many restaurants.
At the time of our visit, Harpurs displayed AA College Rosette awards for 2024–25 and 2025–26.
As you may have already gathered, we were very impressed and we’re already wondering when we can go back! If you’ve got a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday lunchtime free and you fancy something different and unique, and your diet isn’t too specific, we can’t recommend Harpur’s Bistro enough. It’s so great, you wouldn’t be amiss to treat someone, especially if they’ve never been in The Dome before. Locals and visitors alike are lucky to have this opportunity in town and we should cherish it…
University of Derby Buxton, Devonshire Road, Buxton, SK17 6RY
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