These 37 Derby pubs rated by locals include city bars and real ale houses
Beer selection, ambience and top notch customer service were factors rated by locals
Derby is one of the best places in the UK to sink a pint.
Don’t just take our word for it.
We think it’s an accolade right up there with the Oscars, that was bestowed to our cool city when Lonely Planet Magazine described Derby as ‘best place to drink real-ale in the world’.
We asked locals about their favourite places to go for a drink in Derby.
We know people’s tastes vary, some love sinking a pint, some prefer cocktails.
Which is why we kept the question super broad, returning some intriguing recommendations.
We’ve listened to what Derby people have to say, and carefully curated a list of 37 pubs, bars and drinking spots that you rate.
Here is the full list of favourite Derby places to go for a drink, in alphabetical order.
Best places to go for drink in Derby according to locals
Alexandra Hotel, Siddals Road
People were fans of this pub’s ‘great beer range’ served in a venue that is both ‘quirky and classic’.
Bar One, Newland Street
The ‘reasonable beer selection and mixed crowd’ made this a place worthy of being recommended to those seeking a good night out.
Belong Bar, Old Blacksmith’s Yard
Described as ‘amazing and superb’, this bar offers great cocktails and attentive customer service too.
Blacksmiths Lounge, Sadler Gate
This was said to be a ‘nice spot’ offering ‘something a bit more fancy’.
Bless, Chapel Street
Said to offer nostalgia feels, this pub could be great for those seeking a trip down memory lane.
Brick & Tile, Brick Street
The ‘working men’s club’ vibe is a hit for those seeking great beer in no-fuss surroundings.
Brunswick, Railway Terrace
This pub was rated for its old worlde vibe, with one beer fan appreciating its ‘proper old station pub’ vibes.
Carnero Lounge, St Peter’s Street
This pub which also doubles up as eatery, was rated for its ‘super quick supper and pint’.
Creaky Floorboard, Kedleston Road
This family-owned pub was rated as ‘perfect for a pint’ after a walk around Markeaton Park.
Cosy Club, Victoria Street
This grand yet welcoming bar was rated for making a ‘decent Bloody Mary’.
Darley Abbey Wines, Darley Abbey
This wine bar was rated for its ‘great space and location’.
Dolphin, Queen Street
Said to be Derby’s oldest pub, people are also fans of its selection of real ales and wine.
Exeter Arms, Exeter Place
This pub was a hit with people looking for a ‘good pint and good food’.
Flowerpot, Kings Street
Locals appreciate the pub’s ‘brilliant’ selection of craft beers.
Five Lamps, Duffield Road
People rated this pub as ‘exquisite’ and described its craft beer range as ‘perhaps the best in Derby’.
Furnace Inn, Duke Street
The pub’s ‘unexpecting setting’ and ‘great range of beer’ was a hit with beer fans.
Golden Eagle, Agard Street
‘Great music and drinks’ selection were rated at this drinking establishment.
Greyhound, Friar Gate
The pub’s recent makeover was praised, making it a ‘good’ place to enjoy a beer.
Hairy Dog, Becket Street
Also a music venue, the Hairy Dog has been described as ‘brilliant, offering excellent beer, electric atmosphere and great music’.
Holly Bush Inn, Makeney, Belper
The pub’s ‘good ales and fabulous interior’ makes it inviting for beer fans from across the county.
Horseshoes, Dalbury Lees
This pub was rated for its ‘old classic country pub’ vibes, the ‘cracking’ Sunday roast was a bonus.
Joiners Arms, Quarndon
The cosy ambience - replete with snuggly furs and rugs in the winter - made this pub a hit with locals.
King William, Makeney, Belper
‘Excellent beer and welcoming atmosphere’ has made this pub a must-visit for locals.
Last Post, Uttoxeter Old Road
People liked this ‘great little pub serving nice ale’. Its ‘friendly and welcoming’ ambience was also noted.
Little Chester Ale House, Little Chester
Described as an ‘absolute hidden gem’ this pub is less than two miles away from Derby city centre.
Lorentes, Darley Abbey
This restaurant sometimes allows patrons to enjoy beer (it is best to check availability beforehand). People liked the selection of beer on offer.
Malt Shovel, Spondon
This ‘quirky pub with courteous staff’ that is four miles away from Derby city centre is a hit with beer lovers.
Mixing House, Friar Gate
This bar and eatery is said to serve ‘delicious food and drink’.
Old Bell Hotel, Sadler Gate
As the nights draw in, the Tudor Bar’s cosy vibes with large fireplace is a hit.
Orange Tree, George Street
Cocktails at this city pub that is also an events venue are described as ‘tasty’.
QUAD Bar, Market Place
Is said to be a ‘great place to enjoy a pint indoors or outdoors, especially when warmer’.
Seymours, Cheapside
This bar is rated by locals for its ‘great selection of beers and great atmosphere’.
Shakespeare, Sadler Gate
Following a recent refurbishment, the pub is a hit with discerning drinkers who rate the new ambiance and option to enjoy drinks outside in the backyard.
Silk Mill, Full Street
The pub’s ‘great food and olde worlde’ feel is appreciated by beer drinkers in Derby.
Smithfield, Meadow Road
‘Great drinks’, a beer garden and live music makes this pub, that is one mile away from Derby city centre, a hit with beer fans.
Standing Order, Iron Gate
‘Beautiful’ building, and ‘great drinks offers’ makes this Wetherspoons establishment a popular drinking spot with some Derby drinkers.
Suds & Soda, Friar Gate
This pub is said to offer the ‘best selection of beer in Derby’. Relaxed and friendly vibes means this place is ‘highly recommended’ by beer fans in the city.