Pubs are open and drinks are flowin’. With Covid-19 restrictions eased local bars are finally welcoming customers. Here are five of the top locations in the Derby area you just have to visit now that you can.
1. The Exeter Arms
The Exeter Arms lands at number one on our list. With over 1,000 Google reviews and a 4.5 star rating, the Arms is loved by many. A selection of real ales, a comfortable outdoor space, and quality food available for delivery this pub caters to the new covid drinking lifestyle.
Briggs Forget, a local guide says in their description of the pub,
The Exeter Arms is sure to have the drink for you, even having a wide selection of craft beers in their ‘battle fridge’.
With friendly staff, a welcoming atmosphere, and quality booze, the Exeter Arms is a top spot to drop by for a drink or two.
2. The Brunswick Inn
Situated just outside the Derby railway station is one of the City’s best pubs. The bar is a two-time award winner, picking up the Pub of the Year accolade in both 2016 and 2017.
A railway terrace tavern serving real ales and British pub food, The Brunswick Inn is the epitome of a local pub.
It sports a traditional decor, as an old fashioned bar with an open fireplace. While not as busy as pubs in the town centre, The Brunswick Inn is somewhere to stop by if you want a taste of old fashioned Derby.
3. The Neptune
In the heart of Derby, The Neptune is a quality pub to visit when having fine out in the city centre.
Ray Brown frequented the establishment and left the google review,
This sums up the pub nicely, which while simple, provides a great atmosphere for visitors.
A lower cost pub, which serves good beer but lacks in the food department, a choice for those looking for a drink to relax with.
4. Friary Derby
This more than the others, is one for students to keep an eye on.
The Friary describes themselves as a “studenty” bar and they could not be more right. Offering a membership for food and drinks meals, this bar is aimed at those looking for a break from study.
Positioned right next to the Friar Gate campus, next-door to a popular clubbing venue, and a stones-throw away from the city centre, The Friary is really convenient.
It may lack the atmosphere of some of the older pubs listed, but it knows what it is and is aimed at younger drinkers. A livelier, vibrant feeling will be found at this pub, which makes it a breath of fresh air.
5. The Smithfield
All done!! Absolutely love it @DerbyCAMRA @love_derby @AmberValleyCamr got a proper #alehouse now! Massive thankyou to @alscottsigns legend! pic.twitter.com/aC3mEd2olB
— The Smithfield (@smithfieldderby) July 25, 2017
Voted the Best Pub in Derby in 2019, The Smithfield is a place not to miss out on when ‘crawling’ around the city.
With live music often entertaining the customers, the pub offers an incentive other than booze to visit. The Pub also has an extensive outside sitting space, perfect for the summer drinking that is taking place.
Friendly staff and fresh ciders make this a relaxing bar, as well as a fun lively one.
The Smithfield is a bar you should definitely follow your ears too.
