The Dragon - 4-Star Hotel in Willington (Derbyshire)
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Key details
About the Hotel
12 Canal Bridge, Willington (Derbyshire), true,
-
Close to the National Forest
Great
8.7
8.9
/10
4.8
4.3
/5
Loved by The Dragon guests
Spacious rooms
Comfortable beds
Delicious breakfast
Friendly staff
Quiet rooms
"We stayed in one of the new rooms, it was absolutely beautiful, had everything we needed!"
Joanne from United Kingdom
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"Very comfortable bed and quality bedding."
Nicola from United Kingdom
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"A lovely spacious room, well equipped and luxuriously decorated."
Fiona from United Kingdom
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"The rooms were clean & cosy!"
Chelsea D from United Kingdom
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Rooms & Accommodation
The Dragon offers a range of room types, including Standard Double Rooms, Superior Double Rooms, and a self-contained Cottage. The Cottage features a log burner, a well-furnished interior, and a private entrance, with dog-friendly amenities such as treats, blankets, and a bowl. All rooms include a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, and a hospitality tray with tea and coffee.
Dining & Food
The on-site restaurant serves British cuisine, local dishes, and Grill BBQ, with options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. A continental, Full English/Irish, or vegetarian breakfast is available each morning, and the bar offers a selection of real ales and hot drinks. The Sunday lunch menu provides two courses at £23.99, including a Dragon Platter with multiple meats.
Family & Children
The Dragon has a children's playground on the property, and the pub offers kids' meals as part of the menu. Evening entertainment is provided for families, and the location near the canal and towpath gives easy access to outdoor walks. The hotel is 34 km from Alton Towers theme park, making it a practical base for a family day out.
Pet-Friendly Features
Dogs are welcome in the pub and in designated rooms, with special touches like dog biscuits, a blanket, and a bowl provided in the room. The Cottage is also dog-friendly, and the outdoor garden area beside the canal is suitable for pets. The hotel's location on the Trent & Mersey Canal towpath offers direct walking routes for guests with dogs.
Location & Activities
The Dragon is situated directly on the Trent & Mersey Canal, with the towpath leading to Mercia Marina and walks along the water. Cycling is a popular activity in the area, and the hotel provides free on-site parking. The property is 16 km from East Midlands Airport and within easy reach of Nottingham Castle, Alton Towers, and Tutbury Castle.
Highlights
Location: On the Trent & Mersey Canal towpath, 16 km from East Midlands Airport
Rooms: Standard Double, Superior Double, and a self-contained Cottage
Dining: British cuisine, Grill BBQ, and Sunday lunch deals at £23.99 for two courses
Family: Children's playground, kids' meals, and evening entertainment
Pet policy: Dog-friendly rooms with treats, blankets, and bowls
Business: Meeting and banquet facilities available on-site
“The recent refurbishment here has resulted in rooms that are not only spotless but also thoughtfully designed, offering a genuine sense of comfort. It's clear that attention has been paid to the details, from the incredibly comfortable beds, often noted for their quality, to the welcoming nature of the entire team. The adjacent pub, with its agreeable outdoor space, adds a convivial element to the stay, complementing the quiet rooms found at the rear.”
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at 4shotels
Select your room type
The Dragon offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Double or Twin Room Private Bathroom
2 persons
25 m²
1 King-size bed
Heating
room details
Standard Double Room
2 persons
20 m²
1 King-size bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Double Room Private Bathroom
2 persons
20 m²
1 King-size bed
Heating
room details
Show all rooms
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Check availability and prices for your dates now!
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Check-in/ Check-out
Facilities
The Dragon offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Perfect
9.0/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Parking
Pets allowed
Sports & Fitness
Cycling
Services
Housekeeping
Dining
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Business
Business centre
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Children
Children's menu
Room features
Free Wi-Fi in rooms
Air conditioning
Tea and coffee facilities
Media
Flat-screen TV
Room decor
Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite
At The Dragon, guests can indulge in a variety of culinary delights that reflect both local and traditional British cultures. The restaurant ambiance caters to families, couples, and all diners seeking a cozy yet modern space to enjoy satisfying meals throughout the day.
Restaurant
British, Local, Grill/BBQ
Ambiance
A warm and family-friendly setting, perfect for both casual gatherings and romantic dinners, featuring a blend of traditional and modern design elements.
Key Offerings
Guests can choose from an extensive a la carte menu, savoring options like a Full English or Irish breakfast, alongside vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals to cater to every dietary need.
Reservation
Recommended, especially during peak times.
Breakfast available; specific meal times vary.
The Dragon Location
12 Canal Bridge, Willington (Derbyshire), true,
Explore Willington (Derbyshire)
Local Highlights Near The Dragon
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Willington Gravel Pits Nature Reserve
9 minutes walking
Wildlife haven featuring diverse habitats, ideal for birdwatching and peaceful strolls. Perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Betty's Farm Shop
12 minutes walking
Charming farm shop with fresh local produce, homemade treats, and a café. Great for family outings and food lovers.
Mercia Marina
15 minutes walking
Scenic marina with shops and eateries. Enjoy lakeside walks, boat rentals, and seasonal events for all ages.
St. Wystan's Church
20 minutes walking
Historic church known for its stunning architecture and serene surroundings. Offers insight into local heritage.
Discover the local attractions near The Dragon
Learn about notable sites near The Dragon Willington that highlight the charm of South Derbyshire.
Great for nature walks and birdwatching: Willington Gravel Pits
Perfect for leisurely strolls and scenic views: Mercia Marina
Ideal for history enthusiasts and quiet reflection: St. Wystan's Church
Suited for those seeking outdoor shooting activities: Ockbrook Gun Club
Well suited to visitors interested in local farm experiences: Highfields Happy Hens
Best for peaceful visits and architectural appreciation: Anchor Church
Hiking at Willington Gravel Pits
9 minutes walking
Nature trails great for hiking and birdwatching. No booking required; perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Ockbrook Gun Club
10 minutes drive
Thrilling shooting sports venue offering coached sessions for all skill levels. Equipment provided; reservations recommended.
Sculpture Garden
5-minute drive
Artistic outdoor space showcasing local sculptures. A tranquil setting for relaxation and creative inspiration.
Yoga at Betty's Farm
12 minutes walking
Wellness sessions available at this tranquil farm. Ideal for relaxation and enjoying the scenic countryside.
The Green Man
1-minute walking
Traditional pub offering hearty British meals in a cozy setting. Perfect for casual dining; vegetarian options available.
Bella Italia
5 minutes drive
Family-friendly Italian restaurant known for pizza, pasta, and desserts. Lovely atmosphere; reservations recommended.
The Anchor Inn
15 minutes walking
Charming pub offering locally sourced dishes and a selection of craft beers. Great for casual evenings; accommodates dietary needs.
The Barn Café
10 minutes drive
Quirky café serving farm-fresh meals and artisan coffee. Rustic ambiance; ideal for brunch with a focus on local ingredients.
Discover dining options near The Dragon
Enjoy dining options near The Dragon Willington offering a range of culinary experiences.
Ideal for casual dining and sweet treats: Kay's Tearoom and Take Out
Great for traditional pub fare and relaxed meals: The Golden Fish Inn
Burton Albion Football Club
8 minutes drive
Exciting matchdays with a vibrant atmosphere. Family-friendly and a great way to experience local sports culture.
The Brewhouse Arts Centre
10 minutes drive
Cultural hub hosting art exhibitions, workshops, and live performances. Check their schedule for upcoming events.
Local Pubs with Live Music
5 minutes driving
Enjoy local bands and open mic nights at various pubs nearby. Great for a relaxed night out with friends or family.
Cinema
10 minutes drive
Local cinema showcasing recent releases and indie films. Family-friendly and perfect for a fun evening out.
Getting around
City Centre
Willington (Derbyshire) 3 min · 200 m
Airports
East Midlands (EMA) 42 min · 28 km
Nottingham (NQT) 68 min · 44.7 km
Train
Willington Train Station 3 min · 200 m
Willington Railway Station 3 min · 200 m
Bus
Bus stop 2 min · 100 m
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-21:00
Check-out
until 10 am
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room.
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of rooms:
13
Former name
the cottage at the dragon
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about The Dragon from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 566 verified reviews
8.6 /10
Great
86 %
Recommend
Cleanliness
9.3/10
Comfort
9.3/10
Facilities
9.0/10
Free WiFi
8.9/10
Location
9.2/10
Staff
9.4/10
Value for money
8.9/10
Pros
Friendly staff
Comfortable room
Good food
Cons
Thin walls
Maintenance issues
Slow service
Guest reviews
based on 516 reviews
8.7/10
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FAQs
About The Dragon
How far is The Dragon from East Midlands Airport?
The Dragon is located 16 km from East Midlands Airport.
What time can I check in and check out at The Dragon?
Check-in at The Dragon is at 15:00 and check-out is at 10:00.
What type of breakfast is served at The Dragon?
Guests can enjoy a continental, Full English/Irish, or vegetarian breakfast at The Dragon.
What dining options are available at The Dragon?
The Dragon features an on-site restaurant serving British, local, and Grill BBQ cuisine.
Is there free Wi-Fi available at The Dragon?
The Dragon offers complimentary Wi-Fi in all rooms and public areas.
What are some nearby attractions to The Dragon?
Nearby attractions include Alton Towers (34 km) and Nottingham Castle (36 km).
What amenities can I find in the rooms at The Dragon?
Rooms at The Dragon feature a wardrobe, flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom.
What activities are available around The Dragon?
Guests can enjoy cycling and other outdoor activities in and around Willington.
How close is The Dragon to Willington Gravel Pits Nature Reserve?
Willington Gravel Pits Nature Reserve is located 0.5 km from The Dragon.
Are there any child-friendly amenities at The Dragon?
The Dragon offers a children's menu and family-oriented activities suited for kids.