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Pubs

Derby has been recognised by Lonely Planet as the "Best place to drink real ale in the world". And below are some of the best pubs in Derby to experience real ale as recommended by the 'Good Beer Guide' 2011.

Calke Abbey NT

A Real Ale Tour of Derby

Real Ale Tour

Sample some of the best beers in the world and go on a Real Ale Tour of Derby!

  • Includes: Tour and sample in a micro-brewery, half pint of your choice at every pub, real ale tour guide, transport and snacks on route.
  • Cost: £29       
  • Days: Thurs & Sat - 19:00-22:30

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The Babington Arms

The Brewery Tap

"Probably the best Weatherspoons in the country" according to CAMRA's 'Good Beer Guide 2012'. Winner of pub of the year twice in Derby and serving over 15 beers on handpump.

  • 11-13 Babington Arms, Derby, DE1 1TA
  • 01332 383647

The Brewery Tap

The Bulls Head

With an unrivalled selection of hand selected real ales from around the UK, as well as beers, wines and spirits from around the world, The Brewery Tap also serves home made, locally sourced food.

The Brunswick Inn

The Flowerpot

A purpose-built brewery is attached to the pub and is one of the best known free houses in the country. A popular stop for all Derby County supporters on a busy match day.

  • 1 Railway Terrace, Derby, DE1 2RU
  • 01332 290 677

Falstaff Tavern

The Greyhound

A 10 minute walk from the city centre, but seen as one of Derby's hidden gems for real ale. This atmospheric pub won Pub of the Year in Derby for the first time in 2010.

Five Lamps

Seven Wells

Situated on the North-West side of the city, Five Lamps has recently been restored to critical acclaim in Derby, now serving 9 handpump dispense beers from local brewies in Buxton and the Peak District.

The Flower Pot

Shire Horse

One of Derby's most iconic pubs, The Flowerpot offers a superb mix of live entertainment and special guest ales and ciders. As well as hosting the best tribute acts touring the UK, The Flowerpot hosts the talent of upcoming bands in Derby.

The Greyhound

Ye Olde Dolphin Inn

A haven for the real ale fan, and with an ever changing array of guest beers and ciders to enjoy, The Greyhound has succesfully struck a balance between new and old to bring the character of the pub alive with an upmarket local feel.

Horse and Groom

Horsegroom

As well as the regular Bass and Pedigree, two changing guest beers are available on pump. A lively pub with music and entertainment frequently, and home to local darts and snooker teams.

Mr Grundy's Tavern

Mrgrundys

The public bar within a Grade II listed Georgian House serves up to 10 real ales at one time. With open fires, woodbench seating and a collection of film memorabilia, the pub is fantastic for that traditional feel. 

Old Silk Mill

Silkmill

At the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, the Old Silk Mill is the Derby CAMRA Pub of the Year for 2011. Serving over 12 real ales at the weekend, the pub also houses live entertainment throughout the week.

Olde Dolphin Inne

Dolphin

Derby's oldest public house dating back to 1530 and an attractive old coaching inn sitting close to the Cathedral. An old highwayman's pub, the speciality here is traditional cask ales which can be enjoyed in the outside drinking area too.

  • 5a Queen Street, Derby, DE1 3DL
  • 01332 267711

Rowditch Inn

Rowditch

Another pub with a micro-brewery, the Rowditch Inn's ale output is exclusively consumed on premises. For the summer months, the rear garden was described as a "positive haven" by CAMRA's 'Good Beer Guide 2012'.

  • 246 Uttoxeter New Road, Derby, DE22 3LL
  • 01332 343123

The Smithfield

Smithfield

Situated a short walk down from the Brewery Tap, The Smithfield has favourite guest ales Oakham, Whim and Enville on site. The pub also holds their own beer festival throughout the year.

Standing Order

Standing order

One of Derby's most iconic pubs, and point-of-meeting for locals. Situated on the classy Iron Gate, the Standing Order has several guest beers and serves food throughout the day for a traditional pub lunch. 

Station Inn

Stationinn

A cty pub with the traditional ornate frontage, the Station Inn is frequented by regulars and passing trade. Conveniently placed in between Derby Railway Station and the award winning restaurants nearby.

  • 12 Midland Road, Derby, DE1 2SN
  • 01332 608 014