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The Best Micropubs and Real Ale Pubs in Derby: Discover Local Pub Gems
Today I explored various micropubs and real ale establishments in Derby, starting with The Royal Standard, a historic pub with Victorian architecture and ties to Queen Victoria. Following a visit to The Greyhound, with its rich history and modern enhancements, the journey continues to The Last Post, a cosy micropub showcasing local ales. The Pothole and The Creaky Floorboard offer unique atmospheres and selections, highlighting the community spirit. Five Lamps stands out with its spacious layout, while the Little Chester Ale House, Derby’s first micropub, presents a warm ambience. The day concludes at 189 Allestree, offering a vibrant selection of craft beers.
The Royal Standard
Today, I dedicated my day to exploring several micropubs and real ale establishments in Derby. My initial stop was The Royal Standard Derby, a stunning Victorian structure dating back to the 1860s, situated along the banks of the River Derwent. This establishment is recognized as one of the oldest pubs in Derby and derives its name from the personal flag of the sovereign, which is displayed in the presence of the reigning monarch. It is reputed that Queen Victoria partook in a drink within the lounge bar during her visit to the city.
The Royal Standard was previously managed by Derby Brewing Company and was preserved from closure by Pub People. A blue plaque affixed to the front of the pub commemorates Reg Parnell, a former Formula 1 racer, team manager, farmer, and British F1 champion, who resided there.
The interior of the pub is divided into two distinct rooms, both of which have been meticulously designed, featuring exposed brickwork, a brick bar, and wooden flooring, complemented by a small outdoor area. Originally, the establishment consisted solely of a modest curved lounge bar; however, in the 1890s, two adjacent cottages were integrated into the pub, allowing it to occupy the entire corner.
I received a wonderfully warm welcome from Will, who also manages The Greyhound, my next destination. The bar offers a selection of five cask ales, alongside an impressive variety of craft keg beers and ciders. My selection of beer today was “Business As Usual” from Derby Brewing Company. This amber beer is well-balanced and easy to drink, offering a delightful array of flavours.
The Greyhound
My second visit involved a 20-minute walk to the historic Friar Gate area of Derby, where I arrived at Greyhound Derby, a stunning Grade II listed terraced pub dating back to the 18th century. This establishment is one of only two remaining pubs that catered to the animal markets once held at the end of Friar Gate. Originally thatched, the pub’s name is often mistakenly attributed to the nearby dog track; however, it predates the track by approximately 150 years. “The Greyhound” was associated with Edward IV and two prominent Derbyshire families, the Blackwalls and Gells.
The interior is remarkable, showcasing numerous original features such as oak beams and a fireplace, complemented by modern enhancements including an impressive European oak bar, striking exposed brickwork, and a lovely beer garden with a roof terrace. Upon entering, patrons are greeted by a seating area, with a more spacious area located at the rear of the pub.
During my visit, the bar offered an excellent selection of four cask ales, in addition to a wide variety of keg beers and ciders, providing ample choices for guests. Today, I enjoyed an exceptional beer from Pentrich Brewing Co, titled “Dead Formats.” This pale ale is characterized by its remarkable haziness and delightful flavour, featuring hops such as Mosaic and Riwaka. It presents an impressive array of tropical fruit notes.
The Last Post
The path along the road leads me to The Last Post, an exceptional Micropub that opened its doors in 2014. It derives its name from the previous Post Office building it occupies, which still features its original red façade, despite having been repurposed as a shop since the Post Office’s closure. Upon entering, one is greeted with a warm welcome from Stephen and Jessica.
The interior of this inviting Micropub exudes a cosy and comfortable atmosphere, fostering a strong sense of community. Additionally, there is a quaint outdoor beer garden located at the back. A charming nod to its historical roots is evident in the cushions crafted from Royal Mail sacks, which were skilfully made by a local resident.
Today, the bar boasts an impressive selection of three cask ales sourced from local breweries, complemented by various keg options. The cask ales showcase a delightful range of styles, including pale, chestnut, and dark varieties. I had the opportunity to taste two beers during my visit, beginning with “3 Faze” from the local Falstaff Brewery. This delightful golden ale features smooth malt flavours complemented by a hoppy finish. Subsequently, I sampled “Quack Addict” from Dancing Duck Brewery, a chestnut ale that incorporates Jester hops, imparting notable blackcurrant notes.
The Pothole
Next, I arrived at Allestree, where The Pothole is situated within the Park Farm shopping centre. Originally a dry cleaners, this establishment was inaugurated in November 2017 by Littleover Brewery. In late 2019, it was acquired by The Falstaff pub & Brewery, and it continues to be managed by Steph and Jim. Today, I received a wonderfully warm welcome from Steph. The name “The Pothole” is derived from a previous pub that once occupied the same shopping centre.
The interior features a charming single-room micropub, with the bar positioned in the back left corner. There is a cosy snug area at the rear and appealing outdoor seating available at the front. The ambience is inviting, enhanced by wooden floors and tables that contribute to a warm and welcoming environment.
Today, customers can enjoy an impressive selection of six cask beers at the bar, complemented by a variety of keg beers. The cask offerings include selections from the local Falstaff Brewery, along with two guest beers. I selected “Fraser,” a product of Falstaff Brewery, their own establishment. It is an exceptional traditional English Bitter, characterized by its rich flavour, delightful taste, and smooth drinkability.
The Creaky Floorboard
A 20-minute walk leads me to The Creaky Floorboard, which opened its doors in December 2018. Previously a guest house, it was once a family residence. This charming double-fronted, end-of-terrace property is quite an unusual setting for a micropub.
The interior is divided into two distinct rooms by a central hallway: the bar and seating area on the left, and a lounge on the right. The bar features a delightful fireplace and numerous quirky elements, creating an ambience reminiscent of a traditional living room. The entrance hallway showcases impressive floor tiling. A great warm welcome from Jim on my visit.
During my visit, I savoured a delightful cheese and onion cob, which was truly delicious. The bar offers a selection of five cask ales, in addition to various keg options, providing a wide array of choices across different styles. I chose to select “Here Comes The Sun” from the local Little Brewing Company. It is an excellent sessionable golden ale, featuring a delightful colour and a pleasing flavour.
Five Lamps
A ten-minute stroll along the road leads me to Five Lamps. This junction, a bustling triangular intersection nearby, was named in 1890 after the installation of an elegant five-bracketed lamp standard at its centre. The area is adorned with decorative masonry, cast iron bollards, interlinking chains, and elevated flower beds. Originally known as “St Helen’s Inn,” the establishment was renamed in 2001 to better reflect its local identity.
The interior boasts a spacious layout divided into several distinct areas, featuring a tree positioned over the steps leading to one section, creating a cosy, relaxing, and inviting atmosphere. A delightful assortment of pub snacks, including a cheeseboard, is available. Today, John and Jess extended a warm and friendly welcome.
The bar showcases an impressive selection of 11 cask ales, each varying in style, complemented by an excellent range of keg beers and several ciders, providing patrons with numerous options to choose from. Castle Rock Brewery’s “Highway To Hell,” from Nottingham, was my selected beer. This delightful, clear, and golden ale is crafted with Nelson Sauvin hops, offering a wonderful array of fruity notes.
Little Chester Ale House
The Little Chester Ale House, which commenced operations in 2012, holds the distinction of being Derby’s inaugural Micropub. Situated at the periphery of a conservation area that was historically a Roman settlement and a Viking stronghold, the establishment boasts a warm, inviting, and homely atmosphere. Upon entry, patrons are greeted by a spacious main room, with the bar located further back. Today, Dan extended a particularly warm welcome.
Initially established by Wentwell Brewery, the pub transitioned to Hartshorns Brewery in 2015. At the close of 2023, it underwent a delightful renovation, elevating it to its current impressive standard. The bar presents a striking industrial aesthetic, enhanced by the light fixtures positioned at both the front and rear.
The bar features an excellent selection of three cask ales, complemented by a few ciders and a variety of keg beers available for patrons to enjoy. I decided to select a beer from Brunswick Brewing Company, which operates a brewery pub in close proximity to the Railway Station. My choice was “Double Vision,” an excellent pale ale that is both smooth to drink and rich in flavour.
189 Allestree
My final destination was 189 Allestree, conveniently accessible via a brief bus journey. This exceptional micropub, which commenced operations in 2018, was formerly a beauty salon. It is positioned between a convenience store and Woodlands Evangelical Church. I had a delightful experience engaging in conversation with Andy during my visit today.
The venue features a spacious marquee that was erected at the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has remained in place, offering a significant covered area at the front. The interior is characterized by a bright and welcoming atmosphere, enhanced by a remarkable piece of artwork on the wall, crafted by a local artist, which is frequently updated to include depictions of the staff members.
The bar offers an excellent selection of six cask ales, in addition to an impressive array of keg beers and a variety of ciders. I opted for a different beer from the local Little Brewing Company. The beer, named “Epiphany,” is an exceptional pale ale brimming with hoppy flavours derived from Citra, Mosaic, and Simcoe hops. It is a wonderfully refreshing choice.
Micropub Adventures 
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