The Best Pubs
in
Derby

Step through the doors of the Exeter Arms and you’ll discover a cosy, time-worn pub that feels a hundred miles from the city streets outside, with regulars’ laughter warming the dimly lit rooms. It’s a haven for beer lovers, pouring award-winning ales from a local brewery alongside a cracking selection of wines and cocktails, while the kitchen turns out inventive, modern dishes that have earned the place serious acclaim. Bring your dog, grab a table in the outdoor seating area with a group of friends, and settle in for a brilliantly relaxed meal that won’t break the bank.

Tucked away on a quiet street, The Flowerpot is a true gem for anyone who loves great beer and live music. This welcoming pub offers a superb selection of real ales, alongside wine and cocktails, all at reasonable prices, plus a lovely beer garden for sunny days. The intimate gig room creates an electric atmosphere for shows, and with friendly service, bar snacks, and even Nepalese curry available, it’s a fantastic spot for groups and their dogs alike.

For a proper pint in a pub that feels like it’s been part of the railway landscape forever, The Brunswick Inn is an absolute treat. This welcoming spot boasts a superb range of beers, including their own brewery's creations, all served at very reasonable prices. With a warren of characterful rooms, a dog friendly policy, and outdoor seating, it’s the perfect place to gather with friends for a cheesy chip butty and a well kept ale before catching your train.

Pull up a chair at The Smithfield, a riverside alehouse that’s been pouring pints since 1840 and proudly took home the title of CAMRA Pub of the Year. With a passionate, ever rotating lineup of unusual and interesting brews, this place is a dream for adventurous beer lovers, while wine is also on hand and the outdoor heated seating offers gorgeous views over the water. Friendly staff, table service, and a calendar of live music make it a welcoming spot for groups and their four legged friends, all at prices that keep you coming back for just one more.

Head to the Five Lamps for a cracking real ale experience that’s earned its reputation as a firm favourite with locals. This welcoming spot offers a superb selection of constantly changing beers, alongside wine, all at reasonable prices, with a heated outdoor area that’s brilliant for soaking up the warmer months. Live music adds to the lively vibe, and with a large car park, dog friendly policy, and tasty food from rotating guest vendors, it’s the perfect gathering place for groups looking for a proper pint just a short stroll from the city centre.

Welcome to The Great Northern, a welcoming local where you can settle in with a fine cask ale, a glass of bubbly, or a perfectly mixed cocktail in the relaxed bar or sunny outdoor seating. The menu is a delight, offering everything from hand battered cod and chips to cooked to order steaks, with plenty of variety for groups and families alike. Whether you're popping in for a quiet drink or gathering friends for a celebration, this gem on the edge of Mickleover is a fantastic spot for a great meal and a proper pint.

For a fantastic time in a lively sports bar that knows how to throw a party, The Hideout is the place to be. This welcoming spot serves up a great selection of beers, wines, and cocktails, with a brilliant bottomless brunch that has everyone raving about the delicious food and friendly service. Whether you're gathering with a big group to catch the game on TV or enjoying a relaxed catch up on the outdoor seating, this gem guarantees a brilliant experience you'll want to repeat.

Nestled in a charming 18th century farmhouse on the edge of a tranquil medieval village, The Farmhouse at Mackworth beautifully blends old world character with modern comfort. This welcoming pub serves up delicious food, expertly poured beers, wines, and cocktails, all within a relaxed setting that’s perfect for groups and their four legged friends. With a fantastic beer garden for sunny days, a tempting 40% off mains deal, and even comfortable rooms for a proper getaway, it’s an absolute gem for a relaxed meal or a leisurely stay.

Discover the perfect blend of modern comfort and historic charm at The Silk Mill, a welcoming pub nestled in the Cathedral Quarter. Their inventive British menu draws from Victorian dining and retro steak houses, perfectly paired with a fantastic selection of real ales, artisan ciders, and cocktails. With a spacious outdoor area, dog friendly policy, and a laid back vibe ideal for groups, this gem is an absolute treat for a relaxed meal or a quiet pint.

Get ready for the perfect local hangout at The Lodge, where the welcome is always warm and the drinks are flowing with a cracking selection of beers, wines, and cocktails. This is the ultimate spot to gather your group, catch every second of the live sport on the big screens, and enjoy some brilliant live music. With a friendly, dog friendly policy and a buzzing quiz night every Tuesday, it’s a brilliantly affordable gem that keeps everyone coming back for more.