I visit various pubs and breweries in Belper and Derbyshire, exploring their histories, atmospheres, and drink offerings. Beginning with The Railway, established in 1868 and recently renovated, it became a community hub known for its ales. Arkwrights showcases a classic micropub vibe, promoting conversation without distractions. Crich Brew Co focuses on sustainable craft brewing. The Bottle Bank, housed in an old bank building, offers wines and ales in a stylish setting. Other venues like The Cross Keys, Angels Micro Pub, and Belper House add local charm, while newer places like Scran and Barrel and The Riflemans Arms emphasise community atmospheres.
Category Archives: Derbyshire
15/05/25 – Barrow Hill Rail Ale Festival
The Rail Ale Festival at Barrow Hill Roundhouse in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, celebrates the fusion of railway heritage and real ale culture. Established in 2000, the festival, which reached its 25th anniversary in 2025, takes place in the historic roundhouse, the UK’s last operational railway roundhouse built in 1870. It has expanded significantly, featuring over 400 beers and ciders in 2025, along with live music performances from diverse genres. This year, a VIP event included a multi-course meal and a selection of local breweries. Everyone enjoyed the festival’s atmosphere, connecting with fellow beer enthusiasts and industry figures.
08/03/25 – Matlock
A Guide to Matlock’s Best Beers and Pubs Matlock started off as a tiny farming village until thermal springs were found in 1698. It transformed into a trendy spa town during the 19th century, thanks in part to John Smedley opening his hydrotherapy centre in 1853. The railway’s arrival in 1849 really helped tourism takeContinue reading “08/03/25 – Matlock”
08/02/25 – Chesterfield Beer Festival and Dronfield
The Chesterfield Beer Festival, hosted at the historic Winding Wheel Theatre, showcases a diverse range of UK beers and offers delicious food options. The festival promotes local and further afield brews and features talks, including one on haunted pubs. Nearby, Drone Valley Brewery stands out as the UK’s only community-owned brewery, involving locals in brewing and profits reinvestment. The Coach & Horses pub, with a long history dating back to 1795, maintains its welcoming charm and features a selection of Thornbridge beers. Other local spots, like The Beer Stop and The Underdog, contribute to a thriving craft beer culture in Dronfield, enhancing the community experience.
01/02/25 – Bakewell and Sheffield
Bakewell, a historic market town in Derbyshire dating back to the Anglo-Saxon era, features landmarks such as the Bakewell Parish Church and a 13th-century bridge. It’s famous for its Bakewell pudding, created accidentally in the 1800s, and a strong brewing culture exemplified by Thornbridge Brewery, founded in 2005. The brewery utilizes a historic Burton Union system for fermentation, enriching its beer flavours. Local pubs like the Joiners Arms and The Peacock emphasize community and craft beers. Bakewell’s vibrant history includes events like the Militia Riots of 1796 and unique stories tied to establishments, enhancing its charm and appeal.
9/11/24 – Ilkeston, Heanor and Loscoe
A day spent visiting various pubs in Ilkeston, Heanor, Loscoe and Langley Mill starting at The Burnt Pig, a popular micropub. I explore several other venues, including The Crafty One, Stanton Cask, Beestonia Brewing Company, and Marlpool Ale House, highlighting their distinctive atmospheres, local cask beers, and warm welcomes. Each pub features a selection of cask artisans, unique brews, and cosy environments. The tour includes newer establishments like The Crafty Tap and Dead Man’s Tankard, alongside those with historical significance. Conclusively, it reflects a vibrant beer culture in the area with friendly community vibes.
18/10/24-19/10/24 – Derby #2, Spondon and Draycott
I explored several traditional pubs and breweries around Derby, highlighting their unique histories and offerings. Falstaff Pub & Brewery, originally a hotel from 1886, features a cosy atmosphere and four cask ales. The Smithfield, established in 1840, boasts ten cask beers and multiple accolades. The Old Silk Mill and The Flowerpot showcase attractive interiors and local brews. Other notable stops include The Furnace Inn, Shiny Brewery, and The Hoppy Place, each offering a range of beers and welcoming environments alongside others. The tour concludes at The Victoria Inn, known for its music history and diverse beer selection. Each venue reflects Derby’s rich pub culture.
12/10/24 – Derby #1
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 ambiance. The day concludes at 189 Allestree, offering a vibrant selection of craft beers.
10/10/24 – Beeston, Attenborough and Long Eaton
Today I visit various pubs in the Beeston and Long Eaton areas, detailing their histories, atmospheres, and available beers. The Victoria Hotel, dating back to 1899, showcases local cask ales and delights with its Victorian charm. Along the way, I explore establishments like The White Lion, known for its Art Deco style, and The Star Inn, noted for its connection to TV history. Additionally, there’s a tour of Micropubs in Beeston, Attenborough and Long Eaton, emphasizing unique brews like “Murmuration” and “Reign O’er Me.” Each location offers a warm atmosphere, various cask ales, and delectable food options, showcasing the local brewing culture.
14/09/24 – Chesterfield Great Historic Pub Tour
Today, I find myself returning to Chesterfield to participate in the Chesterfield Great Historic Pub Tour organised by Shaun. Renowned as both “The Heart of Industrial England” and “The Gateway to the Peak District”, Chesterfield originated as a Roman fort at the fringes of the Roman Empire, benefiting from excellent transport connections that facilitated its development into a thriving market town during the Middle Ages. The tour will guide me through several pubs, including one that is currently closed, each rich in history and narratives. It promises to be an exceptional experience that I wholeheartedly recommend if the opportunity arises.
Micropub Adventures 