The Fox & Goose on Pudding Pie Hill is a historic 14th-century inn and wedding venue in Derbyshire, offering a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern elegance. Set high above rolling countryside with panoramic Peak District views, it provides an idyllic backdrop for ceremonies, receptions, and unforgettable photography. Couples can choose from characterful indoor suites or fully licensed outdoor spaces with marquee, tipi, or stretch tent options, accommodating everything from intimate gatherings to celebrations of up to 250 guests. With exclusive use, bespoke catering, and a dedicated wedding team praised for their warm service, the venue combines timeless atmosphere, stunning scenery, and seamless organisation – making it an exceptional choice for a wedding reception.
The First Dance
The first dance was scheduled for 7pm so I arrived to set up the band, a little before 5pm. The friendly staff pointed me in the direction of an alcove, next to the dance floor where the band would be ensconced. Arriving a bit early gave me the opportunity to secure space for the mixing desk and my array of speakers, before someone stuck a hi-hat stand in it, or some other piece of percussion paraphernalia.
Andy arrived at 5:30, followed shortly by Ben. Set up and sound check was a relaxed affair and we were ready to go long before our 7pm deadline. I announced the cake cutting at 7 and then invited the bride and groom onto the dance floor for the first dance. They had chosen Sweet Dreams by the Last Shadow Puppet, a slow, crooning number from the Alex Turner factory. Ben slicked his hair in homage to the Sheffield front man’s look.
We were straight into set one with Bohemian Like You and Teenage Dirtbag. The floor was filled from the first song. These were clearly party people looking for some fun. Disco 2000 made a welcome return to the set alongside the Artic Monkey’s version of Love Machine. We rounded off the set with Dakota and took a break for the speeches.
Set 2 opened with Take Me Out, followed by Valerie and Shut Up and Dance. Then we were joined on “stage” by wedding guest Jake for Proud Mary. Ben and Jake put together some fabulous harmonies and really elevate the tune. With that one in the bag it was time to rock out with I Believe in a Thing Called Love. The dance floor was full throughout the second set and we rounded things off with Can’t Take My Eyes Off You and Seven Nation Army.
The DJ took over and we packed up and started loading the car. At one point I was trying navigate the dance floor with a speaker in hand while wedding guests were flinging each other about to Cotton Eye Joe. It felt like a level in a some Hillbilly based video game. I half expected to be confronted by a Gingham clad final boss in the carpark.
This was a great gig, largely because the audience brought their A game and gave off such great energy and enthusiasm. Congratulations to Beth and Ian on their marriage and throwing such a magnificent party.
