The Smithfield, Derby

I have been to Derby a couple of times but always missed this pub due to it's location. It's on the way back to the railway station more or less if you are walking back from Derby Tap.
Looks like it needs attention inside and out but once you are in they have a lot of handpulls. The beer was spot on as well when i was there (Arbor Light and Old Hooky). A beer festival is also held in September too. Smithfest. 3rd one this year promising 40 beers over 3 days.
Nice beer garden overlooking the river too. Worth a look.

24 Jul 2009 18:59

Marine Hall, Fleetwood

Oh dear. I have visited this venue for a quite a few years and I always thought it was THE best pub for beers in Fleetwood. Whilst the update is a bit "marmite" (love it or hate it) I think the beer choice has gone downhill massively. 3 handpulls now (Pheonix Navvy and a special cask beer to celebrate 250 of John Smiths when I was there at the festival) instead of 8 plus reduced hours and days open. Not sure why they did all of this but I agree with previous comments. Was sooo much better than this before.

22 Feb 2009 12:13

The Wellington, Birmingham

Wow! Have to admit I was saving this until last on a visit to Birmingham recently but quite frankly I could have stayed all day here. 15 hand-pulls in a city centre pub. You don't see that often. And well kept too at a relatively decent price. Especially compared to the Fuller's place next door at �3 a pint compared to around �2.50 in here.
Was a little cramped when I went in due to a party of some kind. Loads of chairs but everyone was standing and in the way. Lot of quality beers on when I was there from Tower, Derby, Coastal and Woodlands (my favourite brewery too at the moment). And letting you eat your own food also is quite genious really. Why other pubs (that don't do food) don't allow it I don't know.
Customers/locals friendly. Lot of CAMRA members wanting to engage in conversation. Well worth a visit.

29 Jun 2008 01:18