The Best Ale Houses in England
By Visit Derby
Created February 1, 2024
Last updated April 25, 2025
Raise a glass to the rich tradition of ale in England with our guide to the best ale houses in Derby. Step into a world of craftsmanship, flavour, and camaraderie as you explore the city's thriving ale scene. Our article highlights the most renowned ale houses that serve up a diverse selection of local brews, craft beers, and traditional ales. Immerse yourself in the cosy ambience of these establishments, where you can enjoy a pint of perfectly poured ale while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. From historic pubs with centuries of brewing heritage to modern taprooms showcasing innovative flavours, Derby's ale houses offer something for every discerning beer lover. Discover hidden gems, sample award-winning brews, and engage in lively conversations with fellow ale enthusiasts. Join us on a journey through the best ale houses in Derby and experience the true essence of England's ale culture.
The emphasis though is on the quality of the ale and its impact on your tastebuds, as well as on your pub experience. Derby’s real ale houses come both traditional or modern and attract a mature, independent clientele.
You may also find a micro-brewery out back, live unplugged music and occasional beer festivals.
Micro-Brewery and Brewery Nights Tour
Make the most of your visit by visiting the city's micro-breweries and taking a tour.
Place
Derby Brewing Co Brewery Tours
Masons Place Business Park, Nottingham Road, Derby
Place
Dancing Duck Brewery
John Copper Building, Payne Street, Derby
Place
Shiny Tap Micropub & Brewery
Unit 10, Old Hall Mill Business Park , Alfreton Road, Little Eaton
Derby Real Ale Trail
Follow our Derby Real Ale Trail map to experience the best real ale house in Derby.
Eight to Try
Here are eight of our favourites:
Place
The Flowerpot
19 - 25 King Street , Cathedral Quarter, Derby
Place
The Greyhound
76 Friar Gate, Cathedral Quarter, Derby
Place
Exeter Arms
Exeter Place, Derby
Place
The Royal Standard
1 Derwent Street, Derby
Place
The Old Silk Mill
19 Full Street, Cathedral Quarter, Derby
Place
Brunswick Inn
Railway Terrace, Derby
Place
Ye Olde Dolphin Inne
5a Queen Street, Cathedral Quarter, Derby
Place
The Old Bell Hotel
51 Sadler Gate, Derby
Hairy Traveller
Hairy Traveller tries out 4 of the best pubs in Derby. In it he visits the oldest Derby pub, tastes some of the great Derby pub food, recommends a pub quiz Derby, stays in one of the best Derby live music pubs, and drinks in the best pub in Derby according to the Derby Food and Drink Awards 2024. Derby has been called the pub capital of the UK. Do you agree with his choice of Derby pubs? Are these 4 the best pubs in Derby.
Hairy Traveller samples a couple of Derby microbreweries - The Tiny Tap at the Little Brewing Company, and Shiny Brewery and takes on the challenge of whether he can split the G! Derby is known as the pub capital of the UK, but as the Hairy Traveller discovers it has some excellent microbreweries too.
Hairy Traveller chats with Martin Roper, former vocalist for British punk rock band Anti-Pasti and now the owner of The Secret Dining Company which runs pubs in Derby and Derbyshire including the award winning The Silk Mill and Exeter Arms. They discuss why Derby is the pub capital of the UK as well as the great microbrewery scene in Derby.
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